A YOUNG Oxford United fan was reportedly hit by a flare during Saturday’s draw at Charlton Athletic.

A flare was thrown from the away end after Marcus Browne had given the U’s an 11th-minute lead.

According to reports from fans in the area, it hit a young girl on the head.

In a statement, United said this has been confirmed by her family, who will be guests at Saturday’s home match against Wycombe Wanderers.

An arrest has been made following the incident and the supporter was removed from the stadium at the weekend.

It follows two further instances of flares being set off at United games this season.

During the Carabao Cup defeat to Crystal Palace, a flare was set off, with one person arrested and removed from the Kassam Stadium.

In the last Sky Bet League One fixture at the Kassam, the 2-1 defeat to MK Dons, a flare was thrown in the away end, with the person responsible arrested and ejected from the ground.

The U’s said in a statement: “All three incidents are now in the hands of the police and could lead to three or five-year bans as well as a criminal record.

“We thank fans who have tried their best to help the club eliminate this problem and we will work with all relevant parties to stamp it out, given that the club also face sanctions which range from hefty fines to reduced capacities at games.”