Racist chanting by two Wallasey men at a Chester FC away game has seen them both being banned from attending football matches.

Joshua Harrison, 23, and Thomas Brooks, 22, repeatedly tried to start ‘despicable’ songs during Chester’s fixture at Tranmere Rovers on September 12.

The men pleaded guilty to racist chanting and were given football banning orders at South Sefton Magistrates Court on November 24.

Tranmere Rovers Match Commander Chief Superintendent John Martin said: “This was a despicable incident where both men repeatedly attempted to incite racist chanting.

“Racist harassment will not be tolerated by police.

“We are doing all we can to eradicate such behaviour from sporting events and in the wider Wirral community.

“Spectators at public events should not have to tolerate any form of hate crime, which often leaves families and young people fearful.”

Prenton Park, home of Tranmere Rovers
Prenton Park, home of Tranmere Rovers

Both Harrison and Brooks received three-year football banning orders and cannot attend any organised sporting event.

Ch Supt Martin said: “We work closely with management and staff from Tranmere Rovers FC and this outcome was made possible by the diligence of officers and stewards on duty at this game.

“I would also like to warn anyone thinking about engaging in this type of behaviour we will pursue all such incidents until offenders are brought to justice.

“It is vital anyone who witnesses such offences reports them to police.

Anyone with information with information can speak with officers or stewards at the game, call 101 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.