Kevin Ellison: Police investigate social media abuse of Newport County midfielder

Kevin Ellison has made 28 appearances for Newport this season

Police are investigating after Newport County reported social media abuse aimed at midfielder Kevin Ellison.

The Exiles will join numerous sporting organisations and clubs in a social media boycott this weekend, aimed at tackling the rise in online abuse.

The abuse of Ellison, 42, came after the planned boycott was announced.

"Officers are investigating and enquiries are ongoing," Gwent Police temporary assistant chief constable Ian Roberts confirmed.

"We have spoken to the club and player involved."

The "show of solidarity against online abuse" hopes to encourage companies to take a stronger stance against racist and sexist abuse on their platforms.

Newport boss Mike Flynn came off social media earlier this season thanks in part to abusive messages received over some of his selection decisions, and was scathing of the latest abuse directed at one of his players.

"It's disgusting, Kevin Ellison had something the other night that has been dealt with. That's just the tip of the iceberg," Flynn said.

"Some of the things that I have seen are disgusting and people need to be made accountable for what they think is acceptable. It's an absolute disgrace what people get away with.

"It's fine to criticise a performance or a result but nobody has the right to throw about abuse. Personal abuse is wrong and needs to be stopped.

"It's so much easier to put negative things out there and people seem to get off on it."

Gwent Police confirmed it had "received a call reporting concerns about a social media message sent directly to a Newport County AFC player on Wednesday, 28 April".

Temporary assistant chief constable Roberts added: "Gwent Police is dedicated to tackling all forms of threatening behaviour and abuse that is targeted towards anyone, including those that take place online.

"We're committed to ensuring our communities are safe places and welcoming for all, and that no-one should have to fear harm or abuse in their personal or professional lives.

"Anyone with any information which could assist the investigation is asked to call us on 101."