SUSSEX Police have referred a complaint by Crystal Palace fans to an independent watchdog.

The club's supporters' trust made the official complaint last week, alleging officers from the force were aggressive and beat some fans with batons at last November's explosive clash with Albion at the Amex.

Sussex Police have now referred the case to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC), who will give guidance on how it should be investigated.

The ethics of officers has been questioned by the Crystal Palace Supporters' Trust (CPST), in particular Superintendent Simon Nelson, who said away fans on the night were armed with knives and knuckledusters.

Eight days later, Sussex Police issued an apology statement which revealed Supt Nelson's comments were false.

In the 23-point complaint by solicitors on behalf of the CPST, one officer is alleged to have told a fan to urinate against a wall because there were no toilets.

It is also claimed the force "kettled" travelling fans on November 28.

The IOPC are referred to in situations “where the gravity of the subject matter or exceptional circumstances justifies referral".

This can be because the complaint or recordable conduct matter could have "a significant impact on public confidence, or it is felt there is a need for independent involvement in the investigation.”

A Sussex Police spokesman said: "Our Professional Standards Department have assessed the complaint and we have now voluntarily referred it to the IOPC for their consideration as, in the terms of their statutory guidance, some independent involvement may be needed for the investigation.

"We await the decision of the IOPC on the way in which the investigation should proceed.

"As previously stated, we have already apologised to both clubs and the supporters about some information published last year that was not correct."

A CPST statement said: "CPST is pleased to report that following receipt of the official complaint about police behaviour at the Brighton game, Sussex Police have voluntarily referred the complaint to the IOPC.

"CPST welcomes this development.

"This would mean that the investigation would be conducted independently, and impartially – to the benefit of all concerned.

"We strongly encourage the IOPC to take on this investigation and proceed with its enquiries as soon as possible."