Matchday behaviour: Wrexham AFC

Further to recent reports of pitch encroachment at The Racecourse, North Wales Police wishes to reaffirm its stance on incidents of this nature.

As a Force we have dealt with a spate of pitch incursions by Wrexham fans in games against Dover (26 March), Stockport (2 April) and Eastleigh (9 April).

Section 4 of the Football Offences Act makes clear that any incursion by a spectator onto the playing field is prohibited.

It states: ‘It is an offence for a person at a designated football match to go onto the playing area, or any area adjacent to the playing area to which spectators are not generally admitted, without lawful authority or lawful excuse.’

Dedicated Football Officer, David Evans said: “Unfortunately we have had a number of these incidents reported to us in recent weeks.

“All will be investigated and, where the offender is identified, they will be prosecuted in line with Football Offences Act.

“These prosecutions should act as a deterrent. Fans previously found guilty of these offences have already received club bans and will miss important home matches as the season draws to an exciting close.”

Football Banning Orders will also be sought and enforced where appropriate. These orders are strongly prohibitive and ensure that those found guilty of football disorder are kept distanced from the game.

DFO Evans added: “I would urge all fans to enjoy the match from the safety of their seats and not to jeopardise their future match attendance.

“I’m sure that genuine supporters are desperate to be part of Wrexham’s exciting journey in the years ahead, but they should all be aware of the serious consequences of rule breaches within football grounds.”

A Wrexham AFC statement issued on Thursday (14 April) made clear that the club will take punitive action against fans found to have breached regulations.

It said: “Supporters who encroach on the pitch risk facing a Football Banning Order as well as a criminal conviction, while the Club itself could also face a fine for these actions.

“Indeed, behaviour of this nature has resulted in fines totalling more than £5,000 during this season alone, with the outcome of further cases against the Club still pending.

“There may also be other implications for the Club, including restrictions on future away ticket allocations. This is due to potential safety measures the home Club are required to put in place which impacts on the availability of seating.

“It should be noted that Wrexham AFC will seek to recoup the cost of any future fines – and damage caused to Club property - from any individuals who are deemed to have engaged in unacceptable behaviour.”