Port Vale fan banned after racially abusing player

A Port Vale supporter has been hit with a three-year match ban

A Port Vale supporter has been banned from all football matches for three years after racially abusing a player.

Philip O'Brian, from Newcastle-under-Lyme, made racist remarks during the team's clash with Sheffield Wednesday at Vale Park on 1 October 2022.

The 50-year-old was reported to Port Vale by another supporter.

O'Brian, of Silverton Close, was convicted of racially aggravated harassment at North Staffordshire Justice Centre.

At the hearing on 24 October, and in addition to the three-year ban, he was fined £600 and ordered to pay £750 court costs and a £240 victim surcharge.

His banning order covers matches abroad and he has to surrender his passport when England play away fixtures.

PC Tim Moss, Staffordshire Police's dedicated football officer for Port Vale, said that hate at matches would not be tolerated.

"This outcome is the result of positive work being done by Port Vale Football Club, Staffordshire Police and the courts to combat unacceptable behaviour," he said.

Port Vale's safety officer Wayne Jones welcomed the conviction and urged supporters to report abuse to the club's information line.

Reports can be made to the Port Vale Discrimination Reporting Helpline on 07801216675.