CUFC PRESS RELEASE
Conclusions of the review in to the disturbance on Saturday 24 September 2005
Before going into the detail of the findings from our review the club wishes to clearly state that the vast majority of its fans have always conducted themselves in an exemplary manner and we are proud to have such a committed and devoted fan base. The club would also like it to be understood that the visiting club (Leyton Orient) supporters were not involved in this disturbance, which was restricted to a very small number of people in the home crowd in the East Stand.
The club has now completed its review of the disturbance at the home match on Saturday against Leyton Orient and the conclusions from the review are based on evidence that was obtained from CCTV film, still cameras and the clubs stewards.
It is clear that there are two small areas in the top of the East Stand where the disturbance was centred. These areas were originally designed for the press and media personnel and as such are not designed with the view to allow for the easy removal of people who are being disruptive. We have had reports in the past of problems with these areas, although nothing as significant as Saturday's events. After careful consideration the club feel the safest course of action is to prevent people from entering these areas. The club is therefore closing these areas and they will be netted off with effect from the Bristol Rovers match on Saturday, 01 October. The club is contacting all fans that hold season tickets for these areas and will offer them alternative seats in the East Stand. We are conscious that it is likely that we will inadvertently punish some innocent fans, however we hope that everyone appreciates that the rationale behind this decision is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone.
The evidence has also allowed us to clearly identify a number of people who conducted themselves in a manner that is unacceptable to the club. These people will not be allowed back into the ground and we will have stewards located at all the turnstiles with photographs of the people involved, and they will be refused entry if they try to get onto the ground on Saturday. It is emphasised that in the case of these individuals there will be no discussion as to whether they will be allowed entry on Saturday. They will be banned from the ground until they are able to satisfactorily explain their actions and with this in mind we will take their names and contact details, and they will be given an opportunity to contact the club in the following week when they will be allowed to explain their actions. We are taking this action where we have evidence of inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour.
The club is committed to providing an enjoyable experience for both the home and visiting fans, in a safe environment and does not, and will not, condone the actions of a very small number of 'supporters' who, by the manner of their conduct, bring the club into disrepute.
The club is proud that the police forces from two constabularies this season have specifically gone out of their way to pass on their commendations in respect of the conduct of our fans when visiting their grounds. Our supporters have received nothing but praise this season from every venue we have visited and it is disappointing that this growing reputation might be tarnished by such a small number of so-called 'supporters'.
We can only repeat that as a club Carlisle United are determined to ensure that attending a match at Brunton Park is an enjoyable experience for supporters young and old. To this end we will take every step to ensure that anyone acting in an inappropriate manner is identified and excluded where appropriate.












