Violence erupts in North London

Rampaging West Ham supporters have been accused of starting pitched battles with rival fans from Tottenham in North London this afternoon, ahead of tonight's Carling Cup clash.

And Tottenham High Road resembled something of a battlefield this evening after Hammers fans tore up several pubs associated with their opponents.

One of the main watering holes for Spurs fans - The Cockerel - was the central target for the hooligans who left its customers cowering inside after launching a vicious attack, smashing several windows in the process.

Approximately 60 people are said to have been arrested following the disturbances, which are believed to have been a result of pre-planned meetings between hooligans from the two sides.

Meanwhile, questions are already being asked as to why the Police allowed such a large group of away fans to infiltrate rival areas so far ahead of the start of the game.