Thames Valley Police's mounted section has said that its horses came under attack from missile-throwing fans during yesterday's derby between Swindon Town and Bristol City at the County Ground.

@TVP_horses tweeted: "6 horses assisting Wiltspol with Swindon v Bristol City. Disorder in several areas.

"Missiles thrown at horses. No horse/rider injured." 

GreenlagLesley tweeted: "@TVP_horses all take care. Why hurt you when you're there to keep them safe!!!"

And @DebbieG08 said: "I really don't get why these idiots throw missiles at horses, these people clearly have a lack of social skills & intelligence."

@sissycarter tweeted: "Glad everyone is OK. Hopefully arrests & banning orders to follow? #NoTroubleAtRugbyMatches."

Avon and Somerset Police's mounted section tweeted: "Glad to hear that all @TVP_horses & riders safe and well after disgusting behaviour of some fans at Swindon v Bristol City."

Portsmouth Police tweeted: "Team have just been told about the trouble @TVP_horses had to deal with today #RespectTheHorses."

And @SplashGallery said: "People are idiots! Shame some city fans misbehave."

@TVP_horses responded: "Thank you for your kind words+support today and every day."

Swindon Advertiser reporter Beren Cross tweeted: "Stood in the thin blue line between #stfc and #bcfc supporters pre-match and it wasn't for the faint-hearted. Horses were invaluable.

"Missiles from either side over the crowds. Felt for the drivers who foolishly left their cars in the main car park."