Hibs to ban any fans using pyrotechnics from stadium

Hibernian have released a statement on their official website reminding fans of their zero tolerance approach to use of pyrotechnics.
By The Newsroom
Published 6th Mar 2017, 12:52 BST
Updated 24th Mar 2017, 09:45 BST

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Supporters set off a flare at Easter Road in the William Hill Quarter Final. Picture; SNSSupporters set off a flare at Easter Road in the William Hill Quarter Final. Picture; SNS
Supporters set off a flare at Easter Road in the William Hill Quarter Final. Picture; SNS

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Any fan using smoke bombs and flares will be banned by the club and face the possibility of a football banning order and criminal prosecution.

The club have reminded fans of their zero-tolerance approach insisting they will continue to work with Police Scotland to eradicate pyrotechnics from their gound.

Chief Executive Leeann Dempster said: “The backing that we have had from the fans this season has been terrific. Our average gates are the fourth highest in the country and the fans have also responded to Neil’s call earlier in the season for a more vocal backing.

“The Hibernian support deserves massive praise and our appreciation for that. We want all supporters to enjoy coming to games, we want a great atmosphere and we want the fans to go home happy. However we all need to do this in a safe and considerate manner.

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“The club are already investigating several incidents involving pyrotechnics and pitch incursions at the recent Edinburgh Derby, and will be doing so again after Saturday’s win over Ayr United.

“We ask that supporters enjoy the exciting run in to the end of the season and support the club in our efforts to win the league and retain the Scottish Cup without resorting to unacceptable behaviours that can lead to the club and the individual facing charges.”

Robbie McGregor, Hibernian Football Safety Officer, said: “Pyrotechnic articles operate at very high temperatures, well above 600 degrees and can operate in excess of 1500 degrees in the case of flares.

“Invisible particles from pyrotechnic articles can have both acute and chronic effects detrimental to human health and contrary to some opinions they are not harmless.

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“One pyrotechnic was thrown from the upper section of the East Stand yesterday, over the heads of hundreds of fans, just reaching the pitch. There should be no debate that this behaviour is extremely dangerous.

“Supporters are also reminded of their responsibilities in not entering the field of play before, during or after the match.”