York City fans have been warned not to try to smuggle flares or other pyrotechnics into the play off final.
North Yorkshire Police issued a ‘zero tolerance’ message as they laid out their plans for the sell-out game at the LNER Community Stadium on Saturday (21 May).
Officers say they are proud of the club for reaching the final, which will see City take on Boston United for promotion to the National League.
They added the police and the club are working together to ensure everyone’s safety.
A North Yorkshire Police statement said:
During recent home fixtures a small minority of spectators have acted inappropriately, and at times inexcusably. Under no circumstances will behaviour that causes alarm or distress towards others be tolerated.
Anyone attempting to enter the ground with flares, smoke devices or other pyrotechnics “will be refused entry, removed from the ground and banned from attending future York City matches”.
Amnesty bins will be placed around the ground where people can leave “any items which may be used in an anti-social way”.
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A pitch invasion – even one after the final whistle, if City win, to celebrate victory and promotion – could also have serious consequences.
“Those who encroach the pitch either during or after the match will face ejection, future bans and possible prosecutions as part of our zero-tolerance stance.”
Race day too
It’s not just the 7,500 ticket sell-out at LNER Community Stadium that police have to contend with on Saturday.
York Chief Inspector Fiona Willey said: “The events planned for Saturday will significantly increase the footfall across the city of York. As well as the usual residents and tourists, we are expecting to see large crowds at both York Races and the York City football match.
“In preparation for the anticipated higher demand we have increased the number of officers that we will deploy on Saturday.
“As part of the planned response members of the public should expect to see high visibility patrols across the city. They should be reassured that this is in place so we can ensure the safety of all.”
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York City manager John Askey sent this message to fans:
“Games like these don’t come around very often. We have a chance to win promotion on our home soil. It is now time for everyone to unite as a collective and spur our team on to give them the best chance of succeeding.
“Whilst doing so I would ask each one of you to show respect for each other and behave in a way that is fitting of a York fan.
“Please enjoy and help to make it a great and memorable occasion for all the right reasons.
“Thank you all for your support this season it is very much appreciated by myself staff and players.”