Stewards at Forest Green ejected a Grimsby Town fan from the ground before kick off - apparently for playing with an inflatable football.
Several people - including at least six stewards were seen to physically eject the man from the ground, and one appeared to have him in a headlock. One fan said the move had angered supporters.
Stadium manager Dane Vince, son of the club's multi-millionnaire owner Dale Vince, said the club would not be making a comment. It is understood the stewards are employed by an agency and not the club. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You only have to look at that obese object of a steward, he's enjoying every minute of being a jobs worth,perhaps he wouldn't have been so brave if the guy with the inflatable ball was his age and size..
Posted by: Wayno, February 7, 2015, 9:09pm; Reply: 1
Stewards at Forest Green ejected a Grimsby Town fan from the ground before kick off - apparently for playing with an inflatable football.
Several people - including at least six stewards were seen to physically eject the man from the ground, and one appeared to have him in a headlock. One fan said the move had angered supporters.
Stadium manager Dane Vince, son of the club's multi-millionnaire owner Dale Vince, said the club would not be making a comment. It is understood the stewards are employed by an agency and not the club. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You only have to look at that obese object of a steward, he's enjoying every minute of being a jobs worth,perhaps he wouldn't have been so brave if the guy with the inflatable ball was his age and size..
Tottaly agree?whatdamage is he doing with a blow up ball?Jobs worth! :(
Posted by: gtfc82, February 7, 2015, 9:17pm; Reply: 2
Couldn't that supporter contact the police? From that picture it's clear that the steward's behaviour was physical assault! Would a Forest Green supporter have been ejected for having an inflatable football?...I don't think so! :-/
Posted by: promotion plaice, February 7, 2015, 9:29pm; Reply: 3
Couldn't that supporter contact the police? From that picture it's clear that the steward's behaviour was physical assault! Would a Forest Green supporter have been ejected for having an inflatable football?...I don't think so! :-/
Shocking
Posted by: Jarmo.Is.God, February 7, 2015, 9:31pm; Reply: 4
I was at the game, he was blowing the ball up, explain what he did wrong ????
They asked for it and he said no, next thing he is wrestled to the ground by the 'cheif' steward, smashed his head against the wall and threw him to the ground.
Numerous town fans got annoyed by this and told the police but not sure what they said or did.
Posted by: KK_DOG, February 7, 2015, 9:43pm; Reply: 5
Is that bloke on the left of the picture carrying a dog ?
Posted by: KK_DOG, February 7, 2015, 9:46pm; Reply: 6
Remember this ?
Liverpool V Sunderland Beach Ball Goal
Posted by: Teesknees, February 7, 2015, 9:52pm; Reply: 7
Is that bloke on the left of the picture carrying a dog ?
That bloke?
Looks like Grim Rob to me?
Posted by: Mariner16, February 7, 2015, 10:29pm; Reply: 11
A scene like this at Barnet would be something.
Posted by: Grimal, February 7, 2015, 10:33pm; Reply: 12
This has just been put on the FGR forum, Sounds like they aren't happy with their Stewards. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quote- Re: Not great publicity.
Looks like we are employing a bunch of thugs looking for trouble.
They ejected one of our fans for trying to get to the toilet last week. Bob Hunt and Rich Joyce for trying to organise the seating in the press area a few weeks ago.
But then they can do as they want according to the head steward.
Really giving the club a Great Family Name. NOT. :evil: :evil:
Where will it end. ??????
Posted by: acko338, February 7, 2015, 10:39pm; Reply: 13
Common assault by sub contractors working for Forest Green Rovers on their ground - agency = paid sub contractor - easy no win claim and the evidence is clear to see that over zealous force was used - GTFC should offer the fan help to gain compensation and a criminal charge against all the stewards involved !
Posted by: promotion plaice, February 7, 2015, 10:39pm; Reply: 14
I think only vegetables are allowed in the ground! ;)
Posted by: GiveUsAG, February 7, 2015, 11:03pm; Reply: 18
I do think action needs to be taken against these stewards involved. To set an example that it isn't acceptable.
Stewards at many clubs can be too hostile and too eager to flex their muscles. Or to put it in fewer words, power mad. They need reminding that fans are paying customers, just like a cinema, theatre, etcetera etcetera. And that customers / supporters do NOT pay their hard earned money to be man handled by some thug with a SIA license.
Posted by: Marinerz93, February 7, 2015, 11:33pm; Reply: 19
This is assault plain and simple, the steward is using greater than the required minimum force, so report it to the Police along with the evidence.
FGR it seems can be sued for negligence, they have a duty of care towards supporters, they haven't controlled their stewards even from complaints from their own fans (they have breached that duty of care) and this fan has been injured.
The collated pictures and video will be plenty enough for FGR to settle out of court, sue away.
Posted by: Simariner, February 8, 2015, 8:34am; Reply: 20
I Agree Marinerz93. If a supporter had done this we would be arrested!
I've noticed the FSF Fair Cop has got in contact on Twitter. So hopefully something will be won. UTM
Posted by: Eastendmariner, February 8, 2015, 8:54am; Reply: 21
These stewards need serious training .This sort of stewarding is unacceptable I hope he takes it further
Posted by: lukeo, February 8, 2015, 9:06am; Reply: 22
I was walking in the turnstile as he was very agressively dragged out of the ground and slammed (by his head) against the wall. At first I assumed he'd done something really bad like started a fight or threw a flare etc. Disgraceful.
Posted by: lukeo, February 8, 2015, 9:08am; Reply: 23
To add to this thread what happened after the match? The stewards seemed to 'want some' and followed 1-2 people out of the ground and looked like they was going to cause some sort of trouble whilst town fans where just walking away disappointed to their cars/coach. Nutty you need to stick to orange and water pal! ;)
Posted by: WOZOFGRIMSBY, February 8, 2015, 9:32am; Reply: 24
Nutty was helping me mate!
Posted by: GYinScuntland, February 8, 2015, 9:42am; Reply: 25
I have pictures of him pinned down outside. Steward tried to stop me taking them and I had to explain that I would hit him if he manhandled me once more.. Frigging wobble gob.
Posted by: lukeo, February 8, 2015, 10:58am; Reply: 26
So what happened to the guy after he was ejected? His daughter was left inside the ground wasn't she?
Posted by: Mrs Doyle, February 8, 2015, 11:38am; Reply: 27
Really disgusting that fat pig who had him in a head lock is clearly cutting off his air wave on a middle aged man this could have been fatal if he had a heart condition or asma, All he was just having a bit of harmless fun ffs. If we get them in the playoffs i will be taking my harry haddock and would be great to see a thousand inflatables like Wimbledon some years back then lets see them try it.
Good photo's I would be definitely seeking a lawyer and looking for assault charges against that fat goon.
Posted by: Nelly GTFC, February 8, 2015, 11:49am; Reply: 28
Scumbags, hope they get the sack.
Already going viral around the web? Hope so.
Posted by: WOZOFGRIMSBY, February 8, 2015, 11:58am; Reply: 29
So what happened to the guy after he was ejected? His daughter was left inside the ground wasn't she?
Which ones??
Posted by: lukeo, February 8, 2015, 12:23pm; Reply: 30
to many to name! haha
IF we get them in the play offs I for one will be bringing inflatables! Sheep, women, haddock, balls, balloons the lot !
Posted by: grimps, February 8, 2015, 2:01pm; Reply: 31
If we get them in the play offs I hope we leave the place in the same condition we left Burton ;)
Posted by: Les Brechin, February 8, 2015, 2:02pm; Reply: 32
Quoted Text
Club Statement
Forest Green Rovers are investigating an incident before the kick-off to yesterday’s game against Grimsby Town at The New Lawn, where a fan was removed from the away end of the ground.
FGR accepts the photos of the incident do not make good viewing for a club that prides itself on being family-friendly and welcoming to away fans.
The club are awaiting the post-match report from the stewarding company before we comment further on the incident.
Posted by: Mrs Doyle, February 8, 2015, 2:09pm; Reply: 33
Posted by: LH, February 8, 2015, 2:10pm; Reply: 34
I'm sure the stewarding company will be very honest and open about the incident.
Posted by: aldi_01, February 8, 2015, 2:16pm; Reply: 35
Whatever nonsense the stewarding company come out with if Forest Green had any decency they would terminate their contract with immediate affect. They are working on behalf of a club trying to promote a family orientated club, they don't need people like this bring all that in to disrepute.
I spend a lot of time analysing restraints and have carried out much research and I can safely say if I were to 'restrain' someone like that at work I would be expecting a call in to the office and then taking up a place in the dole queue...
Posted by: LH, February 8, 2015, 2:23pm; Reply: 36
If we get them in the play offs I hope we leave the place in the same condition we left Burton ;)
One of the reasons we experience such heavy handed stewarding and OTT policing on a regular basis. The best response is everyone taking an inflatable to Barnet.
Posted by: grimps, February 8, 2015, 2:25pm; Reply: 37
Where was our protector PC Dodds ? ah right I remember now he only films and nicks town fans
Posted by: sonofmadeleymariner, February 8, 2015, 2:36pm; Reply: 38
I was very close when they tried to remove him they were violent from the start with the man, from what I could tell they told him he couldn't have the inflatable and he was happy to deflate it and put it away but they were determined to take it off him. Thats when he and the head steward started wrestling.
As for the incident at the end some twit pulled off their advertising boards thats why they went after someone whether they got the right man I don't know.
Posted by: dapperz fun pub, February 8, 2015, 2:50pm; Reply: 39
Some posts on Facebook saying the guy spat at the steward , one from andy Carr ( mighty mariner) says he's had messages saying he spat. Might be more to this than we realise????
Posted by: grimps, February 8, 2015, 3:11pm; Reply: 40
Some posts on Facebook saying the guy spat at the steward , one from andy Carr ( mighty mariner) says he's had messages saying he spat. Might be more to this than we realise????
balderdash mate ! That's just standard Doorman/Policeman defense when they've gone over the top. I expect that's trotted out and doorman school training. He'll be giving the usual statement that he was in fear of his life ect
Lets just imagine the scenario ''excuse me sir would you mind giving me that inflatable beach ball ?'' ''cough phlegm''
He might have spat at them afterwards but so would I if six brain dead apes had me in a head lock.
Posted by: Fcukthescunts, February 8, 2015, 3:12pm; Reply: 41
Maybe two sides to story but these stewards are meant to be well trained and as a head steward should be setting example. I would be actually ringing the no win no fee solicitors and taking FGR and steward company to cleaners
if JOHN Fenty has got anything about himself, he would get involved, and demand action from the local police, too much of this bullshit going on, like the 16 town fans arrested on route to Scunthorpe last season, escorted back to town, their tickets confiscated, then de arrested. If the owners want our cash for home games, then they should stand up and be counted when incidents like this happen away from home, instead of sitting on their flippin' hands. All right coming on this forum, complaining you receive no respect, well John, here's your chance, earn that flippin' respect.
Posted by: poomehellt, February 8, 2015, 3:55pm; Reply: 43
I didn't attend the match so I don't know what exactly happened, but could there have been a further reason other than to remove an inflatable to why the stewards acted in such a unacceptable way?
Posted by: dapperz fun pub, February 8, 2015, 4:04pm; Reply: 44
balderdash mate ! That's just standard Doorman/Policeman defense when they've gone over the top. I expect that's trotted out and doorman school training. He'll be giving the usual statement that he was in fear of his life ect
Lets just imagine the scenario ''excuse me sir would you mind giving me that inflatable beach ball ?'' ''cough phlegm''
He might have spat at them afterwards but so would I if six brain dead apes had me in a head lock.
probably grimps just reporting what I'd read I have no idea of the facts tbh.
Posted by: Paris Mariner, February 8, 2015, 4:25pm; Reply: 45
Just do as someone said earlier - take loads of inflatables to Barnet and have a massive party! #bringyourbeachball #gtfc #awaydays All aboard the promotion train to Barnet! #choochoo
Posted by: Madeleymariner, February 8, 2015, 4:28pm; Reply: 46
No one has mentioned the 2 little kids that nearly got flattened in the process.
Posted by: ackomariner, February 8, 2015, 5:40pm; Reply: 47
if JOHN Fenty has got anything about himself, he would get involved, and demand action from the local police, too much of this bullshit going on, like the 16 town fans arrested on route to Scunthorpe last season, escorted back to town, their tickets confiscated, then de arrested. If the owners want our cash for home games, then they should stand up and be counted when incidents like this happen away from home, instead of sitting on their flippin' hands. All right coming on this forum, complaining you receive no respect, well John, here's your chance, earn that flippin' respect.
Why all the swearing towards jf....strange
Posted by: TAGG, February 8, 2015, 6:53pm; Reply: 48
Back in the day Town fans would look after themselves. What were the fans at the game doing whilst this was going on, keeping there hands warm in there pockets???????? Ye never know things may be a bit different at there place if we get them in the playoffs :)
Posted by: grimsby pete, February 8, 2015, 7:01pm; Reply: 49
Back in the day Town fans would look after themselves. What were the fans at the game doing whilst this was going on, keeping there hands warm in there pockets???????? Ye never know things may be a bit different at there place if we get them in the playoffs :)
Agree, in the good old days that thug steward would have had 10 or more to deal with. 8)
Posted by: sonofmadeleymariner, February 8, 2015, 7:02pm; Reply: 50
He did 5 or 6 town fans went to help with the situation,
Posted by: TAGG, February 8, 2015, 7:36pm; Reply: 51
He did 5 or 6 town fans went to help with the situation,
Nice one good on em
Posted by: bradzmilne, February 8, 2015, 9:01pm; Reply: 52
Second time an incident like that has happened this season too town fans - Torquay away too. Not acceptable by any means, it's the fifth division of English football, clubs should be accommodating away fans with open arms to raise any extra cash. UTM
Posted by: H19P1, February 8, 2015, 9:11pm; Reply: 53
I agree, let's make the Hive away end the most intimidating it's ever been in every way possible. Pack out the full allocation of tickets in both stands and make em av it, get in
Posted by: BIGChris, February 9, 2015, 7:22am; Reply: 54
I will probably get pelters for this but it is a genuine question;
Why would a 41 year old man take an inflatable beach ball to watch a football match? Just don't get it!
This does not, in any shape or form, excuse the over the top heavy handed tactics
Posted by: ex-merseymariner, February 9, 2015, 8:12am; Reply: 55
Asked if he would take a beachball to games in future, he replied: “I don’t see why not. It’s not going to hurt anyone. It’s not a weapon of mass destruction. It excites people. I just want to give that boost to everybody.”
I will probably get pelters for this but it is a genuine question;
Why would a 41 year old man take an inflatable beach ball to watch a football match? Just don't get it!
This does not, in any shape or form, excuse the over the top heavy handed tactics
Harmless fun ? Even at my age and health I still like to have a bit of fun .It appears common sense was thrown out the windows . If anyone considers an inflatable beach ball as an offensive weapon , the world has gone mad . Was this incident before the match or during . ? Just a word to the person to keep it under control during the match would have been the correct way . However visual images tell different stories .
Posted by: 75 (Guest), February 9, 2015, 10:13am; Reply: 57
I'm happy to act as a witness if needed. It all happened in front of me. Feel bad as I thought about jumping in to help but thought there was a high chance I'd end up with a banning order if I did.
Pm me if needed.
Posted by: Paris Mariner, February 9, 2015, 10:26am; Reply: 58
So err, did anyone else get as much enjoyment as I did out of the picture? Despite the heavy handiness, you have to admire the fan in questions desire to hold on to the ball and the Town fan on the far left about to form a massive smirk on his face at the whole situation.
Posted by: lukeo, February 9, 2015, 11:24am; Reply: 59
Quoted from 75
I'm happy to act as a witness if needed. It all happened in front of me. Feel bad as I thought about jumping in to help but thought there was a high chance I'd end up with a banning order if I did.
Pm me if needed.
THIS. I along with 4 others see them slam his head against the wall outside. We didn't see the initial incident but if they have statements from people for what happened inside we'd be happy to give them what happened once he was out the ground.
Posted by: Grantham_Mariner, February 9, 2015, 11:42am; Reply: 60
I did see the said stewards re-enacting the headlock etc. in the corner between terracing and seats after the incident. They seemed to be having a good laugh! Totally unprofessional from start to finish.
Posted by: lukeo, February 9, 2015, 11:57am; Reply: 61
I think it'd be nice if John Fenty made some sort of statement or effort to help this fan. I, myself, like John but I think if he made some sort of contribution towards this and tried to help in any way i think he'd get a few more of his doubters to maybe reconsider or atleast like him a little bit more than they do :B :B
Posted by: ska face, February 9, 2015, 12:02pm; Reply: 62
I think it'd be nice if John Fenty made some sort of statement or effort to help this fan. I, myself, like John but I think if he made some sort of contribution towards this and tried to help in any way i think he'd get a few more of his doubters to maybe reconsider or atleast like him a little bit more than they do :B :B
Fenty would do well to avoid making any statement unless absolutely, 100% necessary.
Posted by: TAGG, February 9, 2015, 12:19pm; Reply: 63
I think it'd be nice if John Fenty made some sort of statement or effort to help this fan. I, myself, like John but I think if he made some sort of contribution towards this and tried to help in any way i think he'd get a few more of his doubters to maybe reconsider or atleast like him a little bit more than they do :B :B
I don't think Fenty should get involved. Didn't he take a flag off a young fan and break it?
He didn't put the kid in a headlock and push him against a wall, granted, but even so, it's a subject he should stay clear of - as much as he might want to support this fella.
He's got plenty of eye witnesses and a bunch of photos supporting his case. It doesn't need anyone else getting involved.
Posted by: Marinerz93, February 9, 2015, 5:39pm; Reply: 65
I think it'd be nice if John Fenty made some sort of statement or effort to help this fan. I, myself, like John but I think if he made some sort of contribution towards this and tried to help in any way i think he'd get a few more of his doubters to maybe reconsider or atleast like him a little bit more than they do :B :B
Fenty should have made a statement by now, this Town fan has travelled with his young daughter on the supporters coach and has travelled on the supporters coach to other away games without incident. I would also like to add a well done to the people who run the supporters coach for going and picking him up.
All Fenty had to say was that he was horrified that a fan with his young daughter had been treated in such an unprofessional and sickening manner and that he was going to talk to FGR.
Posted by: topuphere666, February 9, 2015, 9:36pm; Reply: 66
Fenty should have made a statement by now, this Town fan has travelled with his young daughter on the supporters coach and has travelled on the supporters coach to other away games without incident. I would also like to add a well done to the people who run the supporters coach for going and picking him up.
All Fenty had to say was that he was horrified that a fan with his young daughter had been treated in such an unprofessional and sickening manner and that he was going to talk to FGR.
As others have said I much prefer the attitude of restraint currently being shown by the powers that be at GTFC to "shooting from the lip" as in the past. The truth is we don't know whether JF has spoken to FGR. The other aspect to this that seems to have been forgotten is that it will surely be up to the individual to decide whether he wants to take this further. If he does then I believe that is the time when the club should rally behind him. There were several prominent witnesses to Saturday's debacle...
Posted by: Richard Cranium, February 9, 2015, 10:47pm; Reply: 68
Fenty should have made a statement by now, this Town fan has travelled with his young daughter on the supporters coach and has travelled on the supporters coach to other away games without incident. I would also like to add a well done to the people who run the supporters coach for going and picking him up.
All Fenty had to say was that he was horrified that a fan with his young daughter had been treated in such an unprofessional and sickening manner and that he was going to talk to FGR.
We didn't pick him up Dave, he walked back to the coach at the ground. I have just sent an e-mail to Forest Green showing my disgust and await a response.
Posted by: KingstonMariner, February 9, 2015, 11:59pm; Reply: 69
Quoted from 75
I'm happy to act as a witness if needed. It all happened in front of me. Feel bad as I thought about jumping in to help but thought there was a high chance I'd end up with a banning order if I did.
Pm me if needed.
Probably best choice. It would've turned it from a clear cut, "big bad stewards" to "this proves our point about that lot from Grimsby".
Hopefully the guy will take legal action - by the looks of it he has plenty of people to go at: FGR, the stewards' employer, the stewards themselves. In a way it's a shame the old bill has done nothing either because that all sounds like an assault too.
"Dear Austin, before you leave, can you do one last job for your constituents...."
Posted by: Les Brechin, February 10, 2015, 7:21am; Reply: 70
Sorry if this has been mentioned before, but was the chap actually charged with any offence by the police?
Posted by: Grantham_Mariner, February 10, 2015, 7:38am; Reply: 71
Sorry if this has been mentioned before, but was the chap actually charged with any offence by the police?
Trapping and constraining members of the public with an offensive weapon namely his neck allegedly ;)
Posted by: gary_elton, February 10, 2015, 8:22am; Reply: 73
you are charged with attempting to inflate and inflatable... you do not have to inflate anything , but it may harm your neck if you do inflate something you later rely on in a headlock... anything you do inflate will be used in evidence against you...
now please excuse me while me an' five of me bezzies ram yer 'ed into this wall....
allegedly.... take this lot to the bloody cleaners !!!!
Posted by: GTFCNick, February 10, 2015, 12:15pm; Reply: 74
Hi Guy's,
If any of you are in contact with the supporter in question can you please ask him to contact me ASAP 01472 - 605050 ext:8008 as we would like to help if we can.
Thanks
Nick
Posted by: grimsby pete, February 10, 2015, 12:56pm; Reply: 75
If any of you are in contact with the supporter in question can you please ask him to contact me ASAP 01472 - 605050 ext:8008 as we would like to help if we can.
Thanks
Nick
That's good, I hope the steward is charged with assault.
Posted by: cmackenzie4, February 10, 2015, 1:53pm; Reply: 76
We didn't pick him up Dave, he walked back to the coach at the ground. I have just sent an e-mail to Forest Green showing my disgust and await a response.
My apologies but at least you waited for him and that again deserves a mention.
Posted by: Jaws, February 11, 2015, 10:21pm; Reply: 78
I've identified the head steward, he's been caught at it again tonight.
One of the reasons we experience such heavy handed stewarding and OTT policing on a regular basis. The best response is everyone taking an inflatable to Barnet.
THIS
Posted by: promotion plaice, February 12, 2015, 4:52pm; Reply: 80
Quite agree, I guess they also think that shoving someone's face into a wall using their forearm as pat on the back gone wrong.
Over zealous stewarding that will one day result in a death or serious injury.
Posted by: Abdul19, February 12, 2015, 5:37pm; Reply: 84
After letting Lee Hughes go I suppose they have to keep at least one criminal on the payroll.
Allegedy etc
Posted by: Grantham_Mariner, February 12, 2015, 5:38pm; Reply: 85
I witnessed the Steward say they put him in a headlock because he tried to spit at them! So it could not be a 'Chest lock' gone wrong.
Posted by: BIGChris, February 12, 2015, 5:38pm; Reply: 86
Awful incident, whitewash of an investigation and probably the worst bit, is that nobody is in the slightest bit surprised
Posted by: GYinScuntland, February 12, 2015, 5:53pm; Reply: 87
I feel more deflated than the football after reading that, total whitewash and a lily livered response from GTFC too. In my opinion I witnessed pure thuggery by those stewards both before and after the game.
Posted by: grimsby pete, February 12, 2015, 5:59pm; Reply: 88
I do not know about him,
BUT
I would not have shaken hands with the steward outside the ground,
In fact I would be surprised if he did,
Did Forest Green have 3 rd party evidence of this or did they just take the word of the stewards ?
Posted by: ginnywings, February 12, 2015, 6:04pm; Reply: 89
Thing is, if it had been the fan who got the steward in a head lock, it would have been arrest, fine, banning order and possibly even prison.
Posted by: Jaws, February 12, 2015, 6:06pm; Reply: 90
'Chest lock' gone wrong?
I tried googling it, not sure what they're getting at. If it was surely a reconised restraint technique then it'd be easy to find on google?
I'm sure 2000 fans visiting FGR in the play offs would be able to get justice one way or another ;)
That's the problem now... a hell of a lot of the good will between the clubs and fans might have disappeared because they appear to have closed ranks.
Posted by: wigworld, February 12, 2015, 7:39pm; Reply: 93
Very disappointed by GTFC's response - if what's been reported by Forest Green is accurate.
Posted by: WOZOFGRIMSBY, February 12, 2015, 7:50pm; Reply: 94
Does anybody know the chap it happened to or does he post on here?
Just wondered if he was considering a civil prosecution against either fgr/security company/bouncer steward or if indeed fgr had been able to contact him directly? As this "finding" by fgr was, I presume done behind closed doors (kangaroo court?), was he contacted for evidence towards the case?
Posted by: TAGG, February 12, 2015, 7:58pm; Reply: 95
If any of you are in contact with the supporter in question can you please ask him to contact me ASAP 01472 - 605050 ext:8008 as we would like to help if we can.
Thanks
Nick
Nick, What role does the GTFC representative mentioned in the FGR investigation hold within the club. Obviously not asking for a name, just their position.
Posted by: WOZOFGRIMSBY, February 12, 2015, 8:16pm; Reply: 98
Nick, What role does the GTFC representative mentioned in the FGR investigation hold within the club. Obviously not asking for a name, just their position.
If it's ex chairman or majority shareholder, it might give it away ;)
Posted by: Fcukthescunts, February 12, 2015, 8:23pm; Reply: 99
If the fan involved wants it pursuing then it should be but we don't know his thoughts based on the FGR statement unless I have missed
Posted by: gaz57, February 12, 2015, 8:36pm; Reply: 100
A police officer is not allowed by law to assault anyone so this is ridiculous. As for the response of GTFC I am not surprised, I remember in our last season in the league a fan ran on the pitch from the lower findus and the stewards caught and held him. I had no problem with that because they acted properly but I did complain to the head steward about the female steward running up to the fan while being held and landing heavy punches to his head. Needless to say the steward or the club never bothered to get back to me and the female steward carried on working for the club.
Posted by: Marinerz93, February 12, 2015, 8:37pm; Reply: 101
I think the fella said in the telewag he wasn't pursuing it which would go some way to explain why this shocking incident has been 'let go' by all concerned.
Quite sad really, it should have been followed through, not for personal gain but to make sure this doesn't happen to a child or vulnerable adult. You can't chest lock someone and accidently get them in a head lock, especially as the fella was using his arms to hold the ball he was blowing up.
I call bullshit on the excuse by FGR and I am disgusted that someone from the club hasn't taken this incident serious enough to show the travelling supporters that the club has their interests at heart.
Basically the club wants your away support but you are on your own should you get man handled by over zealous hired security with no means of address.
Posted by: codcheeky, February 12, 2015, 8:55pm; Reply: 102
what has our police liaison officer who seems intent on filming everything said a bout this incident?
Posted by: Sussexmariner, February 12, 2015, 9:01pm; Reply: 103
Let's see how his "headlock technique" has improved when we lose the second leg away at FGR
The "boys" from the Burton game will be taking their inflatables no doubt hoping he chooses them to practice on
Posted by: mariner91, February 12, 2015, 9:11pm; Reply: 104
Would love to get them in the play offs and for 1500 Town fans to each take a Harry Haddock.
Posted by: 1739 (Guest), February 12, 2015, 9:24pm; Reply: 105
what has our police liaison officer who seems intent on filming everything said a bout this incident?
One thing is for certain is that he won't be sticking up for the Town fan even if the Town fan wasn't in the wrong.
Posted by: KingstonMariner, February 12, 2015, 11:02pm; Reply: 106
Outrageous outcome. Shame on FGR, shame on the police and shame on our club's spokesman.
If it had been rugby the fellah with the inflatable would have got a pat on the back for enhancing the atmosphere. As it's football fans, you can do anything you like to them.
I hope we don't get FGR in the play offs. For one, I now hope they don't get that far. Secondly, I'd be worried about the actions of some Town fans there.
Posted by: Les Brechin, February 13, 2015, 7:59am; Reply: 107
According to today's Telegraph, the fan in question is seeking legal advice and is to take the matter further, as he is not happy with the outcome reported.
Posted by: lobsterpot, February 13, 2015, 9:02am; Reply: 108
This looks like a case for Judge Rinder!
Posted by: Garth, February 13, 2015, 11:41am; Reply: 109
FGR statement regarding this instance is shocking, and as to whether or not the guy headlocked has taken it further is up to him, but regarding our own clubs seemingly non interest in the matter is very disappointing, IMO they do have some moral responsibility to ensure that our non violent fans are treated with the same respect as shown to away fans at BP
Posted by: grimsby pete, February 13, 2015, 1:35pm; Reply: 110
Outrageous outcome. Shame on FGR, shame on the police and shame on our club's spokesman.
If it had been rugby the fellah with the inflatable would have got a pat on the back for enhancing the atmosphere. As it's football fans, you can do anything you like to them.
I hope we don't get FGR in the play offs. For one, I now hope they don't get that far. Secondly, I'd be worried about the actions of some Town fans there.
They had better have a few more stewards on duty if we do have to go there in the play offs,
Every man and his dog will have an inflatable with them. ;D
Posted by: Les Brechin, February 13, 2015, 1:35pm; Reply: 111
Posted by: FishOutOfWater, February 13, 2015, 1:55pm; Reply: 112
"Despite the incident, before leaving the stadium the fan and the stewards shook hands"
I thought I had seen photos of him pinned to the floor outside the ground so when exactly would he have shaken the hands of their stewards :-/
As soon as they let him up before they handed him over to the police ( who took him off to Stroud ) or was it afterwards, when he got back to the bus before setting off back home to GY / NEL?
I wasn't there so can't really pass any definitive comment but something doesn't add up imho
Posted by: Civvy at last, February 13, 2015, 6:35pm; Reply: 113
According to today's Telegraph, the fan in question is seeking legal advice and is to take the matter further, as he is not happy with the outcome reported.
I will gladly chip in £20.00 towards legal expenses.
Posted by: Les Brechin, February 13, 2015, 6:41pm; Reply: 114
Probably be one of these no win, no fee companies I reckon.
Quite possibly. But if not, I'll put my hand in my pocket. If just 50 of us donated £20 each it would be enough to start the ball rolling. A message needs sending to these type of stewards. As it stands. Mr Moron is laughing his head off at the investigation. He would undoubtedly need professional representation. Maybe shelling out a few quid may make him think twice before taking such action again.
Posted by: 1739 (Guest), February 13, 2015, 7:47pm; Reply: 116
What a shame it would be if Dale Vince got bored and decided to move to a proper club...
mmmm, seems like there is very little sympathy from the FGR forum.....lets hope one of their own never finds themselves on the wrong side of a hi vis moron.
Posted by: Marinerz93, February 13, 2015, 9:56pm; Reply: 118
FGR comments are comical, the reason why our stewards enjoy watching the game is because of the clubs like FGR and their van load of supporters. They are also mistaking having a bit of fun stating it's because we are getting out of Grimsby, we have a bit of fun because if we didn't create an atmosphere there wouldn't be one at the majority of games such as FGR.
Posted by: KingstonMariner, February 13, 2015, 11:20pm; Reply: 119
They sound a right bunch of forelock-tugging yokels on that message board.
"Gaffer's been very koind to us. Give us a nice football piitch soes we can starnd and watch them pansies oofing a ball about. If he says them stewards aint durn nuffing rarng then who are we to question the loiks of im. Shame he won't let us eat proper sausagerrs with meat in em."
Posted by: GYinScuntland, February 14, 2015, 12:50pm; Reply: 120
They sound a right bunch of forelock-tugging yokels on that message board.
"Gaffer's been very koind to us. Give us a nice football piitch soes we can starnd and watch them pansies oofing a ball about. If he says them stewards aint durn nuffing rarng then who are we to question the loiks of im. Shame he won't let us eat proper sausagerrs with meat in em."
Quality.
Posted by: MarinerWY, February 15, 2015, 9:27am; Reply: 121
And GTFC that matter, for completely failing to support their own fans.
I hope the guy presses charges and there is an inquiry. It's such a ridiculous whitewash, if there had been a firm response, even simply a condemnation and promise of extra training for the stewards in question (although they should have been sacked) it would have avoided what could potentially kick off further if Town play FGR in the play-offs. But that's what happens when the correct processes of law and order fail to provide any sort of justice. Now at the very least I imagine there will be a great deal of anomisty between to Town fans and staff at what used to be seen as quite a friendly club to visit.
Posted by: Marinerz93, February 15, 2015, 11:54am; Reply: 122
The officer has put together a well thought out and reasoned post. His point about the use of force is something a lot of us have been talking about but his view as a Policeman is even more defining. The fan has to take this further, as I mentioned in an earlier post what if this happened to a child or vulnerable adult, the Officer has stated this could lead to serious injury or death, firstly from crushing the windpipe / cutting blood off from the brain and secondly from stress positions whilst being pinned down.
The training you receive to deal with prisoners / customers is governed by law and you will be held accountable for your actions. Yes, I agree with the Officer again that sometimes you can't use practised methods but this gets back to the point I and he made about reasonable force. The fact that the fan had an inflatable ball in his hand whilst being held in a headlock should be enough for any sane person to think, how angry or violent can you get whilst blowing up an inflatable ball to justify the stewards actions.
No matter how angrily to try to say bubbles it will always come across as funny, just like a big daft inflatable at a football match. The stewards used unreasonable force and should be held accountable for that.
Posted by: KingstonMariner, February 15, 2015, 1:04pm; Reply: 123
Good article. Clear and confirms what many people thought. This was an example of unreasonable force, and that could have led to injury or death.
I think FGR's whitewash has brought them as a club into disrepute. A club that formerly had a good reputation for being welcoming. This could have been an opportunity for them to cement their reputation, by taking appropriate investigative action (and talking to all parties and witnesses). Instead, they've tarnished it. In effect they've washed their hands of responsibility for ensuring the safety of paying spectators. They've given a licence for any steward to act in an unreasonable and dangerous manner.
This isn't an argument about whether the guy should have had an inflatable, or whether he should have let it down when asked. I can see the downside of having an inflatable (especially a ball) but what the stewards did was totally without justification. On another day we could be looking at a fatality. It's not just about the particular victim this time, it's about what happens next time these thugs are on duty. For that reason follow up action is essential.
It's the same old story. You can do whatever you like, they're only football fans. The sort of mentality that led to the Hillsborough disaster.
Our own club has let the side down. Is this something the Trust can take up?
Posted by: arryarryarry, February 15, 2015, 2:51pm; Reply: 124
It's made the Non League Paper today as well.
Posted by: ginnywings, February 15, 2015, 2:58pm; Reply: 125
The Bristol fans were throwing around an exact same inflatable yesterday, which i thought was quite funny.
I've just messaged FGR to complain. I suggest others do the same and ramp up the pressure on them to act.
Posted by: Abdul19, February 15, 2015, 4:53pm; Reply: 126
