17th June 2004

Ayr United Back UEFA Fight Against Racism in Football

Ayr United Football Club is totally backing the UEFA ten point plan to tackle racism in football and the club`s directors have announced their own stringent methods to combat the problem.

Any fan found participating in racial abuse will be ejected by police and stewards and subsequently banned from somerset park.

And the club has pledged to work with the Honest Men Trust (their own Supporters trust) to organise a show racism the Red Card action day at a home game early in the season.

Other measures being adopted by the club include an advertising board condemning racism to be displayed at the ground, a statement along the same lines in the club programme and website and the implementation of a training package for Ayr United players at all levels including youths. Any player later found guilty of racial abuse will be subject to strict disciplinary procedures.

Announcing the club`s backing for the UEFA 10 point plan, director John Dalton said: "As a club we decided at a recent board meeting to back the plan and take steps to ensure it is fully implemented in and around Somerset Park.

"We will shortly be producing a tape to be played before each home game and at half time condmning racism and advising of the actions we will take if anyone is found racially abusing anyone within the ground.

We will also shortly hold a meeting between the club, police and stewards to firm up our policy and ensure all parties are clear as to the actions to be taken in such circumstances and ensure that no racist literature is handed out in or outside he ground.

"Racism in football is not something we believe can be tolerated or ignored and I can assure you that everyone at Ayr United FC is committed to stamping out the vile aspect of our society."

"Recently printed Ayr United Season ticket books already carry an advert on the opening page promoting the club`s support of the UEFA 10 point plan and reminding supporters of their responsibilities.

And the club has also written to every professional league club in Scotland stating their stance on the issue as well as contacting local groups and organisations including the local council, college and MSP with a view to co-ordinating a community anti-racism package for schools and the wider community.

Ayr United FC News