Blackburn Rovers have said they welcome the conviction of a fan who was convicted of making racist monkey chants towards black opposition players.
Burnley Magistrates' Court heard Darren Livesey, 34, was in attendance at the Blackburn Rovers vs AFC Bournemouth when he made racist remarks.
Bournemouth were visiting Ewood Park in Rovers' last home game of that Championship season on Saturday, April 30, 2022.
When Bournemouth's attacking players ventured close to Rovers' goal, Livesey made monkey noises and chants on three separate occasions, the court heard.
On Monday, Livesey, of Whalley New Road, Blackburn, was found guilty of indecent racist chanting after trial and handed a five year football banning order, as well as a hefty fine.
Rovers have welcomed the conviction of Livesey and said racism is unacceptable at Ewood Park.
A spokesperson for the club said: “Blackburn Rovers is committed to ensuring everyone is welcome at Ewood Park and we welcome the conviction.
"All involved with the club have the right to be treated with respect and we will continue to practice a zero tolerance in regard to discrimination.
“The club recognises it has an active role to play in ensuring all associated with the club value and encourage diversity, promote inclusion and address discrimination where it exists, and we will continue to work with our partners to support our objective.”
We Are The Rovers Supporters Trust said: “The We Are The Rovers Supporters Trust welcome the prosecution of the Rovers supporter involved in racist abuse at a recent game.
"We want Ewood Park to be a welcoming ground free of discriminatory language aimed towards players, fans and staff.”
Man made monkey chants at Blackburn vs Bournemouth match
Witnesses reported Livesey to stewards at the game, who then monitored Livesey's behaviour.
He was also reported to anti-racism charity Kick It Out after being featured in a Rovers social media post following the game.
The court heard as well as making monkey chants at Bournemouth's black players, he also booed when players took the knee prior to the game in protest at all forms of discrimination.
District Judge Alexandra Preston found Livesey guilty of indecent and racial chanting at a designated football match, after stating the evidence from witnesses called by the prosecution was consistent, and that presented by the defence was not.
Livesey was fined £454, and ordered to pay costs of £300 and a £34 victim surcharge.
He was also banned from attending any football games for five years.
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