AN ARBORFIELD man who took a flare to a Royals match has been banned from attending football games for three years.
Thirty-year-old Steven Daniels pleaded guilty to possession of a firework or flare at a sporting event when he appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, February 27.
Magistrates hear that at Reading’s game against Barnsley at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on December 9 last year he was caught with the flammable device.
He was arrested the same day and was charged by postal requisition on 9 February.
Daniels, of Chaucer Grove, Arborfield, was issued a fine and a three-year football banning order as a result.
Investigating officer PC Sarah Wallace, said: “I welcome the court imposing this banning order following the offence.
“Thames Valley Police will not tolerate this behaviour and offenders will be prosecuted.”
She continued: “Football banning orders not only restrict supporters convicted of football-related offences watching the team they follow but they apply to all regulated football matches in the United Kingdom and some international matches and tournaments as well.
“Football matches should be a safe place for all people and Thames Valley Police will always deal with incidents at football matches seriously and apply for Football Banning Orders where appropriate.”
