‘Racist and abusive’ chanting will not tolerated, warn police ahead of Forest v Derby game

The match is set to kick off at 7.45pm tomorrow (Tuesday, August 27) at the City Ground.

Match commander Chief Inspector Neil Williams, of Nottinghamshire Police, warned fans that ‘racist or abusive’ chanting will not be tolerated and action will be taken.

He also said that Derby fans may be held back at the end of the game for ‘the safety and security of all supporters.’

His statement reads: “As the match commander for the Carabao Cup fixture between Nottingham Forest and Derby County, I would like to offer a warm welcome to supporters from both clubs attending the game.

“Working with both clubs, our aim is ensure everyone in attendance is able to enjoy what should be an entertaining game in safe and secure environment.

“If you have any questions which will assist in your attendance at the match please direct them via your supporters groups, and clubs. My football officers through our social media strands will be happy to assist.

“Notts County FC will be kindly opening the Broken Wheel Barrow (previously the Meadow Lane Sports bar) for away supporters who arrive slightly early and wish to have a drink before going to the stadium. It is worth noting that many of the pubs and bars in Nottingham city centre and West Bridgford have strict entry policies on match days and are unlikely to allow in groups of away supporters. The stadium itself will be open at about 6.30pm. I would suggest that away supporters aim to arrive in Nottingham around the time the ground opens and go straight to the venue. The bars and food stalls will be open in the away end at this time.

“Please arrive at the turnstiles within good time to ensure entry to ground prior to kick off.

“Pyrotechnics are dangerous and the majority of supporters do not welcome the use of pyrotechnics at matches. It is an offence to enter a stadium with such an item and those engaging in such behaviour risk arrest, prosecution and a banning order.

“Entering onto the playing surface is an offence and those who enter onto the surface again are at risk of arrest, prosecution and a banning order. Please keep goal celebrations to the stands.

“Whilst chanting is part of supporting a club, racist or abusive chanting is not. Such behaviour will not be tolerated and positive action will be taken against those who engage in such behaviour.

“For the safety and security of all supporters there may need to be a hold back of Derby County fans at the end of the game. Supporters will be updated about this during the match via public address announcements in the stadium. We will minimise the duration of this as far as we can. During any holdback, the police will work with stewards and we will do our best to ensure that supporters can access toilet facilities. This will need to be done in a controlled manner to help regulate numbers accessing the toilets at any one time.

“The Policing team will be working together with the stewards to ensure your attendance at the match is safe and secure, please listen and follow their directions.

“I wish both teams well as they compete in the Carabao Cup this season and I look forward to all supporters having a safe and secure visit to The City Ground.

“Thank you for your co-operation.”