Wrexham AFC officer praises club’s loyal supporters

The Dedicated Football Officer for Wrexham AFC has hailed the commitment and loyalty of the club’s fanbase.

As part of his role with North Wales Police, PC Dave Evans attends Wrexham’s home and away games and is a familiar face among supporters.

And with the club’s fortunes currently on an upward trajectory, Dave has been impressed by the behaviour of the vast majority of Reds supporters this season.

He said: “Historically, Wrexham have always had a terrific amount of support and that’s very much still the case at the moment.

“Attendances at The Racecourse have been particularly high this season, with thousands packing the stadium and large numbers of loyal away fans following their team up and down the country.

“They spend their hard-earned money to make some really lengthy away trips to places like Torquay, Dover and Yeovil and their commitment should be applauded.

“I have to say that the overwhelming majority of these supporters are a credit to the club and to the town itself.”

As the Force’s DFO, Dave is tasked with the collection, evaluation, analysis and dissemination of intelligence to minimise football-related crime and disorder at games.

His reports help to determine the strategy, tactics, resource levels and support services required for the policing of any football event.

And while there have been several Football Banning Orders issued to individuals attending Wrexham games in recent months, Dave insists these incidents are the exception and not the norm.

He added: “In terms of behaviour among Wrexham fans; on the whole it is excellent and we encounter very few problems.

“Those who are found to be involved in football-related disorder or anti-social behaviour are always dealt with robustly.

“There have been lengthy Football Banning Orders and even custodial sentences issued to those found guilty of offences, and as a Force we would always pursue those punishments to their fullest extent.

“Keeping football fans safe at games is our utmost priority and I have to emphasise that these types of incident are quite rare, which is pleasing.”

Speaking ahead of Wrexham’s match at National League rivals Chesterfield on Tuesday (22 February), Dave highlighted the current positivity among fans.

He said: “There’s a real feel-good factor around the club and the town itself at the moment. Wrexham are a club on the up and it’s pleasing to see so many supporters invested in the club’s journey.

“The recent news that the club are set to regain the freehold on The Racecourse can only be a good thing for the club in the future and long may it continue.

“I’d like to see the club continue to grow and to build on the successful platform they’ve built for themselves this season. Many would see that as a reward to the fans for their unwavering support.”