Life ban for ex-football manager who hit linesman

A former football manager has been fined and given a lifetime ban for punching a linesman during a match.

Robert Williams-Jones, 43, of Llaneilian, near Amlwch, Anglesey, was sentenced to 24 weeks in prison, suspended for a year, last month.

The assault took place in April 2024 during Penrhyndeudraeth FC's 8-0 win at the team Williams-Jones was managing, Amlwch Town FC.

The North Wales Coast Football Association (NWCFA) disciplinary panel has given Williams-Jones a lifetime suspension from the game, as well as a £3,000 fine and £50 in costs.

He had pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm during the North Wales Coast West Premier League match.

He was told to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work and pay £1,000 in compensation.

Shortly after the match Amlwch Town FC confirmed it had cut ties with Williams-Jones, apologising to both Penrhyndeudraeth and the linesman.

Amlwch Town has also been given a £2,500 fine, with £2,000 of that suspended for a year.

The club said it was "truly saddened by this incident and would again apologise unreservedly to Penrhyndeudraeth and all affected."

"We accept the ruling and will now move forward as a club," it added.

The NWCFA disciplinary panel said: "There is no place for aggression or assault in football within this area association. The NWCFA will continue to take robust action on any instances of abuse.

"The NWCFA will not be making any further comment."