Words: Steve Brown

Three people have been arrested after shouting racist and homophobic abuse during a football game in Brighton.

During the Brighton and Hove Albion match against Chelsea on Wednesday (January 1), the game was ruined after three people were arrested by Sussex Police outside Brighton’s stadium.

The racist slurs were targeted at the Chelsea players and the homophobic abuse was aimed at Chelsea supporters.

A visiting supporter was also ejected by club stewards for homophobic abuse aimed at home supporters.

All three now face prosecution.

Writing on the official Brighton and Hove Albion website, deputy chairman Paul Barber said: “Yet again our safety and stewarding team, along with Sussex Police, have had to deal with three separate and unwanted instances of disgusting racist and homophobic abuse.

“If the prospect of a life ban from watching their clubs play football isn’t a strong enough deterrent, we have to ask the question as to whether the courts should be given the power to hand out more severe punishments?

“Football can only do so much, and we are sick and tired of the game’s reputation being tarnished by these people.

"I find it impossible to comprehend how and why some individuals think it's acceptable to behave in this way, and yet again I will make it very clear that neither Brighton & Hove Albion nor the wider football community, will tolerate racism, homophobia, or any other form of discrimination at any time.

"We would urge any fans confronted with similar discriminatory behaviour at our stadium to report it immediately, either directly to a steward or via our anonymous hotline, and we will continue to take the strongest possible action against such bigoted individuals.

“These people are not welcome at the Amex or at any football matches."