News from Nottingham Labour

‘Respect For Football’ to be launched at Forest versus Reading match

Friends of Vernon Park in Basford have had their voice heard at the highest level.

Long suffering Park users recently made representation to the City Council regarding anti-social behaviour of football teams that display foul and abusive language in front of local children.

The Football Association together with Nottingham City Council have drawn up plans to challenge this behaviour.

The plans include new agreements that will ban teams that persistently offend from using City council pitches. (The FA stated the new arrangements were unique in the UK, Nottingham is leading the way for other councils to follow).

Two metre respect lines will be marked out parallel to the touchline of all pitches to keep spectators away from the pitch. There will also be a high profile poster campaign at all parks and in dressing rooms informing teams of impending sanctions if their behaviour is reported.

To mark the launch of this initiative young people from AFC Vernon will parade round the side of the pitch prior to Forest’s game against Reading, they will be wearing “Respect for Football” t-shirts.

Basford Councillor Mick Newton said:

“Football is a great game and with these proposals will be even greater for players and spectators alike throughout Nottingham.”

“We all need to respect the environment in which we play the game and respect other park users through our actions and general behaviour”

“At local club level football relies heavily on a significant number of volunteers not forgetting the essential voluntary contribution of match officials on a weekly basis across Nottingham. We should not take that contribution for granted and therefore we need to show more respect through our conduct both on and off the pitch.”

“I really do hope these new arrangements will enhance the experience and enjoyment for all who either play, watch or serve the ‘beautiful game’.”