This From Hereford FC:
We have received a considerable number of very useful images – including positive identification of a number of individuals involved in either off field scuffles or pitch invasions (no matter how seemingly minor) – and we continue to work to establish the identity of others.
We have also taken statements from a number of people at the games and, as a result, have a more informed picture of events.
What has been most encouraging is the fact that a number of supporters featured in pictures that are publicly available, have voluntarily visited the club, in person, to apologise for their actions.
We are grateful to these supporters for coming forward – their expressed regret is to their considerable credit – and Hereford FC would now like to encourage others to do the same.
Hereford FC therefore invites other fans who were involved, irrespective of age, to come forward – with an adult if appropriate – in the next 7 days. All supporters who do so will then be treated in the same way as those who have already come forward.
Speaking about recent events and the club’s plan moving forward, Hereford FC’s CEO, Ken Kinnersley, explained:
‘Although we feel it is very important we identify the supporters involved in both pitch invasions and off field disorder recently, at the outset Hereford FC wish to make two important points.
‘Firstly, we fully appreciate that the vast majority of our supporters attend matches home and away and are exemplary in their behaviour. Their sole interest and intent is to offer support to the team and the club. The club and players value your support above everything and you are first class ambassadors for Hereford FC.
‘Secondly, we’d like to state that we have absolutely no appetite to ban any of our fans from attending Edgar Street and will do so only because, under current circumstances, it is the only option available to the club to deal with disorder. Club officials are, however, fully aware that an outright ban is not always the most appropriate solution.
‘For some weeks I have been weighing up the appropriate and proportionate action to both punish and to dissuade individuals from reoffending. This has not been straightforward, but, after taking advice, I have come up with a series of proposals for those supporters who have been involved in recent incidents – whether pitch invasions or disorder – to consider in all seriousness. The key aspect, however, is that this must be a voluntary act on the part of those involved.
‘Firstly though, I can confirm that a number of people who have been identified are under consideration for banning orders resulting from events at Dunkirk and Alvechurch. If banning orders are decided upon, we will be notifying the FA for the specific purpose of reviewing ticket purchases by these Hereford supporters for the FA Vase Final on 22 May 2016. Following a meeting with the FA yesterday, we confirm that any Hereford FC banning order will apply to Wembley Stadium.
‘However, as part of what will be a final warning process, and in order to be seen by the relevant authorities to be dealing with crowd disorder in an appropriate way, Hereford FC will be offering all those who come forward voluntarily the opportunity to benefit from a partial amnesty by attending a ‘Supporters Awareness Course’ (SAC).
‘We are working with various partners to determine the syllabus, which will cover a wide range of separate, but relevant subjects ranging from the abuse of alcohol, through to unforeseen consequences of irresponsible behaviour. All areas involved will be related to the issues we are seeking to address.
‘The principal is based on the ‘Speed Awareness Course’ offered as an alternative to points on your driving licence, but in this instance attendance will replace a potential banning order.
‘We repeat, individuals must come forward themselves to take advantage of this partial amnesty and we invite those supporters who were involved in pitch invasions or disorder at either Dunkirk or Alvechurch to call into the club and make themselves known to officials within the next seven days.
‘Alternatively, if for any reason, you are unable to visit personally within the week but wish your name to be included, please send an e-mail to operations@herefordfc.co.uk.’
Kinnersley continued:
‘In short, this is a final opportunity for a number of supporters to avoid a season long banning order by attending a short course.
‘It would be a mistake to underestimate the determination of both Hereford FC and the overwhelming majority of our supporters to resolve the issue of people whose actions do nothing but damage the club’s reputation.
‘We are hopeful that this important message will be heard and that all supporters will use their best endeavours to persuade their friends, relations, colleagues or acquaintances, irrespective of age, who may be implicated to take advantage of this offer so we can move forward.
‘We would also urge those involved not to miss this opportunity and reassure them that all information will be treated in confidence and names will not be published.’