Harrogate Town AFC issue statement after flare thrown during FA Cup match against Bolton Wanderers

The Sulphurites were beaten 5-1 by Bolton Wanderers at the Toughsheet Community Stadium in the FA Cup second round on Saturday, December 2.

However during the match, a Harrogate Town fan ignited and threw a flare, which hit another supporter and landed at the feet of a younger fan.

It is a criminal offence to throw missiles or bring pyrotechnics to football and the club are working closely with police to identify the individual.

In a statement released by the Harrogate Town Independent Supporters Club, it says: "The Harrogate Town Independent Supporters Club would like to express their disappointment at the behaviour of one of our supporters at our recent match against Bolton Wanderers.

"Over the past ten years, we have gained a reputation of being one of the most well behaved and family friendly group of fans in the country.

"On Saturday, a flare was ignited and thrown by one of our supporters in the away end, ultimately hitting one of our own supporters and landing at the feet of one of our younger fans.

"Everyone involved with the Independent Supporters Club are committed to making our away trips enjoyable and family friendly.

"This behaviour is not acceptable, and we have already taken steps to identify and ban the culprit from travelling to any further away games on our supporters club coaches.

"To reiterate, this is not acceptable, and any behaviour which jeopardises our reputation will not be tolerated and will result in an instant ban.

"This applies to both home and away matches.”