Police probe on Taylor

Sussex police have launched an investigation into allegations that Peter Taylor attacked a photographer yesterday afternoon, only hours before it was announced he had stepped down as manager of Second Division champions Brighton.

The former Leicester boss quit after just six months at the Withdean Stadium, citing ‘broken promises’ over the development of a new ground and an insufficient budget for life in the First Division, for his decision.

As Taylor left the club’s training ground at lunchtime yesterday he is alleged to have lunged at photographer Stephen Lawrence.

A spokesman for Sussex police confirmed an investigation is under way.

She said: ‘‘Sussex police are investigating an incident which took place at the training of Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club at 12.40pm on April 29 between a photographer and Brighton and Hove manager Peter Taylor where it is alleged he grabbed a photographer.’’

Stephen Lawrence told how he was left ‘‘stunned’’ by the alleged incident.

He told The Sun: ‘‘Taylor came out of the training ground and walked towards his car.

‘‘He started driving and I thought he was just going to speed out of the gates but he screeched to a halt and got out.

‘‘He came at me and grabbed me by the scruff of the neck. He then moved his hands round to my throat.

‘‘The only reason he stopped was because I said to him: ‘This is going to look good in the papers’.

‘‘As he walked away he shouted at me: ‘I know who you are’.’’

However, club spokesman Paul Camillin played down the incident.

He told the newspaper: ‘‘I witnessed it and I have spoken to the police. There was no problem whatsoever in my opinion.’’