Chester FC chairman Grenville Millington has issued a statement warning fans about bringing flares and bangers to matches.
The former Blues goalkeeper said he was responding to a concerning trend of pyrotechnics being let off inside football grounds across the country.
He warned such actions are a criminal offence and can also see the club fined for the behaviour of their fans.
Earlier this month the Chester v Wrexham cross-border derby passed ‘without significant incident’ .
Millington’s statement in full: “It is becoming an increasing concern to me how frequently we are seeing flares and bangers being activated at football matches up and down the country, and sadly that includes The Lookers Vauxhall Stadium.
“These devices are not designed to be thrown around football grounds, many of them being extremely dangerous, with the capacity to burn at incredibly hot temperatures.
“Some of them can even explode. Imagine that for a moment. People have been known to have respiratory problems as a result of breathing in the smoke.
“Pyrotechnics are illegal at football grounds.
“Being in possession of a pyrotechnic device at a football match, or attempting to bring one in to a football ground is a criminal offence.
“Any person committing such an offence faces arrest and can expect the court to make a Football Banning Order.
“It just isn’t worth it.
“This is our club, yours as much as mine.
“The Football Association has the authority to levy substantial fines against the club if this kind of behaviour was to continue.
“That is money that could be better served by our club.
“Can I also point out as a family club, we cannot and will not tolerate any form of chanting that could cause offence or distress, racial abuse or any other form of public order offence.
“We will always work with the police in apprehending offenders, at no time hesitating to hand over CCTV footage and other resources.
“We want a visit to Chester Football Club to be an enjoyable experience, and will not tolerate the mindless few who wish to spoil the event for the many decent fans who simply want to come along to cheer and support the Blues.
“Think about what I am saying, and please do not bring these devices with you to Chester Football Club, or indeed, any other football ground.”
What do you make of this statement? Have you witnessed any incidents like this at Chester FC games? Let us know in the comments below.
