Football fan banned for racist abuse of stadium staff

Mark Cox has been banned from attending football matches for three years

A football fan has been banned from attending matches for three years after racially abusing stadium staff at an Oxford United game.

As well as being issued with a banning order, Mark Cox, from Kennington, was also ordered to pay more than £1,100 at a hearing at Oxford Magistrate's Court on Tuesday.

The 49-year-old had earlier pleaded guilty to one count of racially aggravated harassment and two counts of common assault.

It happened during Oxford's Championship fixture against Leeds United at the Kassam Stadium on 18 April.

Thames Valley Police (TVP) said Cox had been racially abusive and assaulted two members of catering staff in the East Stand.

He was detained by stewards before being arrested by two officers. While being transported to custody, Cox made further racial comments, police said.

Following his conviction, Cox is now prohibited from attending football matches in the UK.

He will also be forced to surrender his passport when England play away fixtures.

TVP's dedicated football officer, PC Alex Locke, said: "Racism and violence have no place in football or our communities."

"This banning order sends a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.

"We will continue to work with our partners to ensure matches remain safe and inclusive for everyone."