Ahead of a return to Deepdale this weekend, everyone at Preston North End would like to thank fans for their continued support both at home and on the road.
With four away matches having been played already this year, it has been fantastic to see such a high number of fans making long trips to back the team.
However, there are unfortunately a small minority of supporters who have displayed signs of behaviour which are completely condemned by the club, including discrimination, abuse, anti-social behaviour and pitch encroachment.
In recent months, the club have been forced to take serious action against supporters who have been found guilty of such behaviour, and as a result two fans have received bans from the club, while three other supporters have been issued court-ordered bans.
At the recent FA Cup match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, nine fans were arrested – six of those for homophobic chanting – and a young home fan had their hat and scarf stolen. Witnesses are being welcomed to contact the club regarding this matter.
Written warnings have been sent to a number of supporters for recent behaviour on club coaches, and another fan received educational training from Kick It Out following reports of racist comments at a recent home match.
Supporters are invited to browse the club’s Banning & Sanctions Policy, which outlines possible sanctions for any breaches of ground regulations. As always, the club hopes sanctions will not need to be taken against supporters, however they are essential in reiterating the zero-tolerance approach to such behaviour.
Fans are reminded that a text service is available on home matchdays to report incidents. Supporters can anonymously use the text service by texting ‘PNE’ to 66777 followed by the stand, row and seat number. For example, text “PNE I’m in the Alan Kelly Town End, row 10, seat 34. Person sitting directly in front of me shouting racist abuse,” to 66777.
Deepdale has always been known for its inclusive and family-friendly atmosphere, and these measures are in place to ensure this continues.