After Saturday’s match against Stowmarket Town at Park Lane, I received a phone call from the Stowmarket chairman advising me that one of their players had been subjected to racial abuse from a home supporter.

I was appalled to have taken such a phone call, and first and foremost I would like to sincerely apologise to the player in question for experiencing something as vile as racial abuse at our stadium.

I have been a part of this club for many years, and I have only ever known this as a place that is welcoming to people of all backgrounds. This is not what this club is about, and it never will be.

It seems as though on Saturday that somebody decided to tarnish the club’s name in this cowardly way. To that person, I urge you not to return to Park Lane in the future, as you and your disgusting behaviour are not welcome.

Also, I am sure that if the player in question heard this remark, then other supporters will have done as well. If anybody is able to identify the individual, please give me a call on 07860 514497. I can personally guarantee that any calls with be treated with complete confidentiality.

Now that this has taken place, we will underline our zero-tolerance approach against racism and all forms of discrimination in a strong and robust manner that can leave no doubt about our stance.

Letters will be handed out to each and every supporter who comes through the turnstiles at our next home match against Tilbury on Monday 27th December to underline our position.

We will also be putting signage up around the stadium to remind anybody that sadly needs reminding that racism and discrimination have no place at Park Lane.

Finally, incidents of abuse and/or discrimination can be reported to the FA by calling 0800 085 0508 or to Kick It Out by calling 020 7253 0162.

John Batch
Chairman