Julie-Anne Uggla 'disappointed' by rise in York City fan arrests

In the 2023-2024 season, nine fans were arrested, which is up from six the season before - a rise of 50 per cent, according to Home Office figures.

These included seven arrests for public disorder, an arrest for alcohol offences, and an arrest for throwing missiles.

The club's co-chair, Julia-Anne Uggla, said: "I'm really disappointed to hear that the number of arrests involving York City Football Club fans has risen from six to nine over the past season.

Julie-Anne Uggla, co-chair of York City Football Club (Image: Tom Poole)

"York City Football Club have some of the most passionate supporters in the league, and it's disheartening to see a very small minority spoil it for those who come to matches to show their love and support for our club in the right way."

The figures also show six York City supporters were subject to banning orders as of the end of the season, prohibiting them from attending football matches for a set period of time.

Last season two new banning orders were handed out to fans of the club, with seven over the past five years.

Mrs Uggla added: "We take these matters seriously and are actively working to strengthen relationships with the authorities to ensure fan engagement remains positive.

"We fully support the behaviour policies that the club, along with the police, have in place to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everybody.

"Our goal is to promote an environment where supporters can enjoy football without any incident that reflects poorly on the majority of our wonderful supporters."

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National Police Chiefs’ Council’s lead for football policing, Chief Constable Mark Roberts, said that across the country the number of matches where football-related incidents were reported has fallen by 12 per cent.

"That correlates with the proactive approach we have seen from police forces across the country," he added.

Mr Roberts cautioned it was important to put these figures into context.

"Last season around 47 million people attended men’s domestic and international matches, the highest number we have on record, and the vast majority of football fans are law-abiding citizens who want to support their team," he said.

"However, there are a small number of fans who commit offences, and we will continue to work closely with the CPS and our other partners to ensure that those responsible are held accountable."

North Yorkshire Police, which is responsible for policing York City's home matches, added: "Everyone who attends a football match should be able to enjoy it in peace and good spirits.

"Anti-social, intimidating and criminal behaviour won’t be tolerated and anyone who is committing it will be dealt with swiftly."