Reminder that the use of these is a criminal offence
Following todays announcement by the Premier League that they are to start a campaign to eradicate the growing trend of fans taking pyrotechnic devices into football stadiums, Shrewsbury Town would like to advise both home and away fans of the issues that the use of these items can bring.
The Club and Police would like to remind fans that it is a criminal offence to enter or attempt to enter the ground in possession of a flare, smoke bomb or firework. If a flare, smoke bomb or firework is used, the club will do what it can to identify the person using it and the matter will then be handed on to the Police.
Fans are warned that if convicted at court they can receive a football banning order which not only bans them from attending any game in the country but can also prevent them from entering the town centre on match days and they will be required to hand their passports in when England are playing away. Some fans have received prison sentences or suspended prison sentences for offences involving these items. This is in addition to any ban the club may give.
There is of course a risk of injury to supporters, match day staff, players and officials. These can vary from serious burns, to breathing difficulties and even lung damage to those supporters in the immediate area of the item.
The club hope that supporters will work with them in making the Greenhous Meadow a safe place for supporters to attend and consider the consequences of their actions. The use of these items can have a negative impact on the club and supporters not just here and at away fixtures but also with the official bodies.