Bradford City investigating racist abuse of pensioner at Port Vale game

Friday, 25 October 2019 10:41

Bradford City chiefs are investigating an incident of racism after an elderly supporter was abused outside Valley Parade prior to the Bantams’ game against Port Vale.

Glendon Robinson, 67, explained he had racial slurs shouted at by three younger fans on Tuesday night, saying they called him a monkey and made monkey noises at him.

When Mr Robinson tried to take a photograph of the men, who he described as being aged between 25 and 35, they ran off towards Manningham Lane.

He said: "It's just ignorance from them. I have been going to City since 1968 and went to all the away games.

"I have experienced this at lots of away games but never, never at City.

"What makes me feel awful is we are supporting the same team. There are a lot of black players in the team, so what would've happened if they had scored?"

He added: "It's sickening because I rate this club as a family club and a lot of Asian people come here than before.

"I was going towards the ground and there's no way I should be getting these reactions from anyone.

"When I started supporting City these lads wouldn't have been born.

"I've supported the club through thick and thin, and it's the first time I've heard anything like that."

Regarding the incident, Ryan Sparks, City's director of communications, said: "We are disgusted to hear of this incident and will do everything in our power to identity those alleged to have been involved.

"Racism has no place in society and we treat all forms of discrimination with the utmost seriousness.

"Bradford is proud, multi-cultural city and racism is absolutely unacceptable. We would urge anyone who witnessed last night’s incident to come forward and contact the club. This can be done anonymously."

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