Football fan banned for running on to pitch

Terence Griffiths jumped over a barrier and tried to hug a player at an Accrington Stanley game

A football fan has been banned from attending matches for three years after running on to the pitch at Accrington Stanley's Wham Stadium.

Terence Griffiths, of Birkenhead, jumped over a barrier from the Coppice Terrace to celebrate Tranmere Rovers' 101st-minute equaliser in the 3-3 draw with Stanley on 12 April.

The 34-year-old ran on the pitch with his arms raised, and was seen attempting to hug a Tranmere player, before running towards the centre of the pitch, Lancashire Police said.

He was later identified and ordered to attend Blackburn Magistrates' Court where he pleaded guilty to entering the playing area during a football match.

'Completely unacceptable'

The court imposed a three-year banning order, issued Mr Griffiths with a £40 fine, and ordered him to pay £85 in costs.

PC Ross Bosdorff said Griffiths' actions were "completely unacceptable".

"Such actions disrupt the game and can put players at unnecessary risk.

"We will take action against fans who enter the playing area during matches."