Bracknell Town repeated history on Saturday when they beat Banbury United to secure a place in the FA Cup First Round Proper for only the second time in the club’s history, but the match was marred by a number of off-field incidents that have prompted Thames Valley Police to open an investigation.
Thames Valley Police is investigating a number of offences in connection with a football match between Bracknell Town FC and Banbury United FC.
The clubs met at Bottom Meadow in Sandhurst in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round on Saturday (15/10).
Three offences have been reported to Thames Valley Police: a racially aggravated assault against a member of Bracknell Town FC Staff, a racially aggravated public order offence against a member of the public, and a racially aggravated public order offence against a Bracknell town FC player.
During the racially aggravated assault against a member of Bracknell Town FC Staff, it has been reported that someone in the crowd spat in the face of the female member of staff.
Investigating officer PC Steve Mountain said: “Thames Valley Police is conducting a thorough investigation into these offences and is in consultation with both Bracknell Town FC and Banbury United FC, the match officials and the victims of the offences.
“I would urge any other victims or anyone with any information or footage from the match to contact the force as soon as possible. The easiest way to contact us is by visiting our website or calling 101, quoting investigation reference 43220466819.
“Thames Valley Police will not tolerate this behaviour and offenders will be prosecuted and football banning orders will be applied for.
“The force has secured five football banning orders in relation to recent football matches in our region.
“Not only does a ban stop the individual from attending football matches for three years, they can also be required to surrender their passport to the police when the England national team is playing abroad.”
Bracknell Town are in the draw for the FA Cup First Qualifying Round which will be broadcast live on BBC 2 on Monday evening. Details of the time and ball number for the Robins is here.
Read more: Bracknell Town statement on allegations of racist abuse at FA Cup tie
All the latest FA Cup news around Berkshire will be available here. Details on round dates and the FA Cup prize fund is here.
