Man with banned pyrotechnic device stopped from going to Bradford City game
West Yorkshire Police apprehended him in the city centre
A man's been prevented from attending Bradford City's game against Walsall at Valley Parade after he was found to be carrying a banned pyrotechnic device.
Police say they responded to reports and located the man in the city centre before the match and that along with club officials he was issued an immediate suspension pending further enquiries.
A flare had been set-off in the stadium earlier in the season.
Superintendent Gareth Crossley from Bradford District police said: "West Yorkshire Police are committed to working closely with all the football league clubs in West Yorkshire, in this case Bradford City, to ensure a safe and enjoyable event.”
"Bradford City supporters, our visitors from Walsall and the wider communities of West Yorkshire expect to be safe and feel safe in our towns and at sporting events.”
"Pyrotechnics have no place in football stadiums and the possession of flares whilst entering or in view of the pitch is a criminal offence which we will deal with robustly, seeking football banning orders alongside criminal prosecution.
"In this case, Bradford City AFC have taken immediate interim action to ensure the safety of supporters which reflects the commitment and collaboration with West Yorkshire Police, to keep communities safe.”
Whilst a statement from the Bantams said: "Following events earlier in the season, where a pyrotechnic device was deployed inside the University of Bradford Stadium, we are again utterly disgusted to discover that another individual had intentions of bringing a device to today’s game.
"Given statements issued already this season, concerning misconduct on matchday and its implications - both in terms of the club’s finances and reputation - it is disappointing to see this behaviour continue.
"We would like to thank our colleagues at West Yorkshire Police for their help in identifying the individual responsible earlier today.
"The health and safety of everyone inside the University of Bradford Stadium is paramount, and we will therefore continue to aid the relevant authorities and take the strongest-possible action."