Runcorn Linnets are supporting an all-game approach to ensure that every football fan feels safe attending matches.

As we commence the new season, we're backing the introduction of strong  measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.

These include:
• Entering  the pitch without permission

• Carrying  or using smoke bombs or pyrotechnics

• Throwing objects on to the pitch

• Discriminatory behaviour

• Taking drugs.

All of these actions are illegal, dangerous and have no place in our game.

For everyone's safety, all clubs will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.

Prosecution by the police can result in a permanent criminal record, which could affect your employment and education, and in some cases, result in a prison sentence.

Anyone who enters the pitch without permission or uses smoke bombs or pyros will now receive an automatic club ban.

This could also now apply to the parents or guardians of children involved in these activities.

These measures reflect the seriousness  of the risks to fans, volunteers and staff – pyros can burn at 2,000 degrees Celsius and can cause life-changing injuries, burns and potentially fatal asthma attacks.

Entering the pitch endangers everyone because it's impossible to tell  the difference between a celebrating fan and a violent attacker.

That is why the pitch must remain a safe space for players, and the stands for supporters.

Peter Cartledge, chairman of Runcorn Linnets, said: "We all have a part to play in making sure everyone feels safe on matchdays - from parents taking their children to their first game, and older fans, who have been attending for decades, to the players, stewards and our volunteers who make the matches happen.

"We will not tolerate any antisocial behaviour at APEC Taxis Stadium and will continue to work closely with the Police and our security partners as we continue to promote a welcoming environment within our club."

Josh Christian, Trust Board member and Linnets in the Community manager, said: "We have worked very hard to generate a convivial atmosphere at our games.

"It would be criminal if all our endeavours were to be put at risk by the illegal activities we have seen creep back into the game at all levels.

"The campaign being launched by the FA is not to spoil supporters' enjoyment - on the contrary, it is to ensure that fans continue to enjoy watching live football in safety."

Josh added: "We offer plenty of opportunities for the young fans to engage with the players either by being a matchday mascot or after games in the clubhouse so It is not necessary for them to enter the field at the final whistle.

"If any of our younger fans would like to be a mascot or have an autograph/photo opportunity, please come and see me and we will do our best to accommodate the request."

Manager Dave Wild said: "We are all passionate about our team. But it is important that we channel this passion in the right way, act in the best interest of the game and ensure that everyone attending our games has a safe and enjoyable experience and looks forward to returning.

"We eally value our supporters and absolutely love to hear them getting behind us from the sidelines but the playing area is most definitely the domain of players and officials."

This season, Runcorn Linnets is supporting the FA, National League System Clubs and Leagues and the Football Supporters Association to make  football a safer and more welcoming  environment, by cracking down on dangerous behaviour that can put fans,  players, staff and match officials at risk.

We ask our supporters to come together to show that those, who commit these illegal acts, do not represent the majority of supporters.

'LOVE FOOTBALL. PROTECT THE GAME.'