Highland League issues warning to fans after incidents involving pyrotechnics
The Highland League has issued a warning to fans after saying there have been a number of incidents where pyrotechnics have been ignited and thrown on pitches.
Fans who have been found guilty of using pyrotechnics at matches will face being banned from Highland League grounds in the future.
The warnings come after a high-profile incident during a match between Huntly and Wick Academy when a pyrotechnic was thrown on to the pitch at Christie Park on Saturday, August 9.
Nobody was hurt as a result, but Huntly have since taken the decision to close one end of the ground to supporters to prevent any further incidents.
The Highland League says there have been incidents at other matches and has issued a warning.
It said: “It is with deep regret that the Scottish Highland Football League and all member clubs find it necessary to address our supporters regarding the recent use of pyrotechnics at matches throughout the league.
“While club officials have acted swiftly to manage incidents involving pyrotechnics, there is particular concern regarding recent attempts to throw pyrotechnics onto the pitch during matches.
“The league, including every member club, must be absolutely clear, pyrotechnics have no place at our matches. Their use not only endangers the safety of players, officials and fellow supporters, but also places the clubs at risk of serious consequences, both financially and reputationally.
“Anyone found in possession of pyrotechnic devices at any match involving a Scottish Highland Football League club will face a ban from all football-related activities connected to their own club and throughout the league.
“We urge all supporters to respect this policy and help us maintain the integrity and safety of our league, our clubs and our communities. To many we have the best league in the world and we want to keep it that way, both entertaining and safe.”