Salisbury react to police statement after Bulls fixture

Salisbury’s Police Inspector Pete Sparrow this afternoon released the following statement regarding incidents that took place on Saturday ahead of our match with Hereford FC.

“While the football game itself passed without any problems inside the ground, there were a number of individuals who were intent on causing issues within the city prior to the game. We believe these issues were instigated by local people loosely associated to Salisbury FC and responded to by a minority of fans who had travelled to the city to support Hereford FC."

"It is really, really disappointing to see the behaviour of a small minority despite an increased police presence and extra safety stewards at the ground. Those people involved cannot be described as fans of football and it is a shame that a match that started with a minutes silence to mark the earlier tragic events of the week and finished with the crowning of Hereford FC as champions of the league, could not be matched by dignified behaviour within the city"

"Our investigation into Saturday's behaviour is continuing - we will be extensively analysing all bodycam footage in a bid to identify those responsible. Once identified, we will enter discussions with Salisbury FC, whose name they represent, and take steps to ban them from future games. These people cannot expect to act in such an irresponsible way and continue to be allowed to attend fixtures alongside true football fans”.
 
Salisbury Football Club has released the following response to the above statement.

“Salisbury Football Club is most concerned to hear of incidents that took place in the city centre on Saturday ahead of our match with Hereford FC.

We were very happy with the way the match was handled in conjunction with Wiltshire Police, but sad to hear of events elsewhere. We will continue to work with Wiltshire Police and we will act upon whatever feedback they give us.

We were delighted with the attendance at the game and the magnificent support provided by our fans but those involved or responsible for the issues in the city centre on Saturday in no way represent our fan base.”

Source: www.salisburyfc.co.uk