A man has been arrested after an incident of racist behaviour at Barrow’s home game.
Following the League Two match with Colchester United, he was arrested for a racially aggravated public order offence which occurred during the second half.
He has been released on bail, pending further investigation into the matter.
It was heard by the Colchester head coach Matt Bloomfield, who immediately reported it to the fourth official, and the stadium safety officer. Cumbria and Essex police were subsequently notified – with the individual identified.
Following the game, Bloomfield made a statement to police and further investigations are being carried out.
Barrow AFC urged anyone with information in relation to the incident to contact PC Rickie Wallbank, the dedicated football officer for the club on [email protected]
A club statement said: “We must take this opportunity to emphasise that Barrow Association Football Club has a zero-tolerance approach to any racist behaviour, and any such incidents will be dealt with strongly.”
Last season in the fixture against Colchester at Holker Street the visitors’ goalkeeper Shamal George was also on the end of some verbal abuse.
As with those reports of racial abuse, Colchester United say they support Barrow’s intention to punish the latest person responsible.
United issued their own statement saying: “Like Barrow, we would like to make it absolutely clear that we abhor discrimination in all its forms.
“Once again, we would also like to commend Barrow in the effective way that they used the protocols available, and for their swift declaration that they will take the strongest action possible, including pursuing life bans, for anyone found guilty of racism.”
