Thursday 16 November 2017 06:12, UK
The Premier League and Scottish Professional Football League have shown their support for LGBT equality within sport by backing Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign.
A new partnership with the Premier League and Stonewall will see increased branding via ball plinths, pitch flags, and handshake boards, while the timing boards will also take on a rainbow effect.
There will also be rainbow-coloured captain's armbands and laces for the players during the three-day campaign, which starts when West Ham United meet Leicester City on Friday November 24, live on Sky Sports.
Premier League Executive Director Bill Bush said: "We all have a role to play in changing attitudes within sport.
"Last year's activity for the Rainbow Laces weekend helped to raise the profile of LGBT equality in our game, and we look to develop that further this year.
"We hope that through our work with Stonewall, we will see a shift in attitudes and public support for LGBT inclusion within our game."
Several Scottish clubs will also be displaying their support by wearing rainbow laces during SPFL matches throughout their campaign that runs from November 24 until December 3.
Neil Doncaster, SPFL Chief Executive said: "We believe that everyone should feel welcome and included at football matches, whether they are playing or simply spectating.
"That is why we are giving our full backing to Stonewall Scotland and their Rainbow Laces campaign."
Research carried out last year by the campaign found 72 per cent of football fans have heard homophobic abuse at games over the last five years.
Colin Macfarlane, Director of Stonewall Scotland, said: "Support from organisations like the SPFL, SFA and major clubs is critical in making sport inclusive for lesbian, gay, bi and trans fans and players."
