AN Accrington Stanley fan has admitted racially abusing an opposition player from a stand packed with children.

John Hughes, 61, swore and used a racist slur against Newport County striker Aaron O'Connor after a game at the Store First Stadium on March 27.

He was ordered to pay out a total of £405 by Blackburn Magistrates' Court - £100 of which will go to Mr O'Connor as compensation for the comment.

Hughes, of Stone Hey, Huncoat, accepted he had used 'wholly inappropriate language' around 15 minutes after the end of Stanley's 2-0 defeat, while Newport players were warming-down.

Phil Hall, prosecuting, said Mr O'Connor was involved in 'banter' with some youngsters who were saying he was 'rubbish' and that Newport did not deserve to win the game.

Mr Hall said: "The defendant was stood with a group of youngsters aged between nine and 15 years of age and responded when the player suggested it was past their bedtime."

Hughes, who has no previous convictions, then swore at Mr O'Connor and used a phrase not fit for publication.

Gareth Price, defending, said the incident has soured the defendant's relationship with his family and the club.

He said Hughes went to Stanley games because of his son, who suffers from cerebral palsy and is an ardent supporter.

Mr Price said: "Newport had won 2-0 but there were some controversial refereeing decisions and the Accrington fans thought a goal scored by the visitors had been put in by a hand.

"The teenagers who were stood near my client shouted something at the player and he shouted something back. As soon as my client made his unfortunate comment he offered an apology to Mr O'Connor.

"My client is not that interested but his son is a very keen supporter and he is happy to encourage and support that. There has been a very positive relationship with the club and it would be a shame if that is jeopardised by this unfortunate incident."

Hughes was fined £200 and ordered to pay £100 compensation to the player and £105 costs.

An Accrington Stanley spokesman said: “The club condemns any form of racism or racist behaviour. We work constantly as a club to eradicate behaviour of this kind and encourage a family-friendly atmosphere.”

Mr O'Connor, 31, was released by the Welsh club after his contract expired last month.