Tuesday 6 February 2018 15:30, UK
Norwich City and Ipswich Town have vowed to take action against unacceptable social media posts from fans in the build-up to this month's East Anglian derby.
Ipswich travel to Carrow Road on Sunday February 18 and the clubs on Tuesday revealed they will issue stadium bans to any supporter who posts grossly offensive, abusive or discriminatory material on social media platforms.
Ipswich banned two supporters for offensive posts shared in the build-up to the last derby between the sides, and Norwich say they are not afraid to inflict the same punishment on their own fans, should such behaviour warrant action to be taken.
Norwich City managing director Steve Stone said: "The East Anglian derby is one of the great rivalries in English football and one to be enjoyed and celebrated in the right spirit by everybody connected with both clubs.
"We're all looking forward to the latest instalment when we host Ipswich later this month.
"Unfortunately, however, when we last met at Portman Road in October there was some material posted on social media, by a tiny minority of fans of both clubs, which has no place in modern football or society in general.
"We are therefore determined to unite with Ipswich Town in dealing with this sort of material and we will issue stadium bans where we deem it appropriate.
"Of course in some cases, posts of this nature may fall into the realms of criminal offence and could also lead to police action."
Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Nick Davison, from Norfolk Police, said: "We fully support the club in taking this strong stance, which sends a clear message about behaviour expected from supporters.
"Working in partnership with Suffolk Police, officers monitor social media in the run-up to significant games and we will investigate any crimes identified."
