Football fan given five-year match ban over drugs

The 21-year-old was given the banning order on Monday at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court

A man has been banned from attending football matches for five years after he was found in possession of drugs at a Shrewsbury Town FC game.

Aiden Murray had class A drugs on his person at the match against Oxford United in March this year.

The 21-year-old from Oxford was given the five-year ban at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court on Monday, with the sanction preventing him from attending any football match in the UK.

Under new legislation, fans who commit class A drug offences at matches can now face being banned for up to 10 years and also receive a criminal conviction.

Murray, of Bulan Road, Headington, pleaded guilty in April to a charge of possession of class A drugs, West Mercia Police said.

The subsequent banning order also means he will be unable to travel abroad when England play internationally during the period.

PC Chris Rayment, the force’s dedicated football officer for Shrewsbury Town, said: “This is a great example of proactive partnership working between stewards and police on match days and sends out a clear message to football fans that drugs will not be tolerated within football.

“Football is enjoyed by people from all ages and backgrounds, including young children.

"Being in possession or using illegal substances or prohibited items can have a negative effect on people’s behaviour, impacting the safety and enjoyment of others."