Banbury United issue further statement after recent anti-social behaviour

The club held an emergency board meeting on Tuesday evening

“We have a clear message – if you want to be involved in anti-social behaviour at our games do not come”. Banbury United’s board have issued that clear statement to those that have caused problems at the Puritans’ recent games.

The Club held an emergency board meeting on Tuesday evening in the wake of problems at Saturday’s home game and further reports of problems following Bank Holiday Monday’s away fixture against Leamington.

The FA are likely to impose penalties, which could include a fine, for the incidents at Saturday’s game. Following the match one person needed hospital treatment after various items, including bottles and a traffic cone, were thrown. During the game two smoke bombs were also let off. The Club have confirmed that the FA have requested a report.

Over 500 Banbury supporters visited Leamington on Bank Holiday Monday. The Club acknowledges the great support which continued long after the final whistle, but has since received reports of damage to panels at the back of a stand. Banbury United say they feel it only right to cover the cost of repairing the damage, caused by a very small minority.

In a statement issued this morning the Club says; “We risk losing the support of some supporters and sponsors alike if the great reputation we have built in seven years of supporters’ ownership is damaged. All of this would negatively impact on the support we can offer our fantastic manager Andy Whing.”

As Thames Valley Police continue to investigate the anti-social behaviour at Saturday’s game against Hereford, Banbury United will be introducing enhanced security measures for this Saturday’s game to endeavour to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The statement acknowledges the risks that any further anti-social behaviour could have on Banbury United: “We are a fan owned club. We do not have a large benefactor. Our success is down to hard work from our large volunteers base and the players and management. We are able to invest in the squad due to our levels of support and the amazing sponsorship from the local business community.

“Trying to minimise the risk of repetition of the issues on Saturday diverts hard earned funds away from the team. Dealing with them diverts our volunteer resources away from the tasks we need to achieve to make the club stronger and better, particularly to ensure we meet all the requirements that we need to retain our place a National League level.”

The statement concludes advising those who can’t behave to stay away: “We have a clear message – if you want to be involved in anti-social behaviour at our games do not come. If you still do we will take action against you.

“However irrespective of any measures as a Board we put in place, if we are to eradicate these issues we need the collective support of all fans to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.”