AP
The Den, Millwall Stadium

The Metropolitan Police’s football unit is seeking a three year ban for any fan found with illegal drugs on a matchday, following an incident last month.

During Millwall’s Championship match with Preston North End, officers received a report through the anonymous text line of a man taking drugs and using homophobic language towards a Preston player.

Frederick Hardley, 28, from Worthing was arrested and plead guilty to using threatening or abusive words and possession of a Class B drug.

The Met applied for a three-year banning order which was issued by the court.

He also paid more than £700 in costs and received a six-month conditional discharge for being in possession of cannabis.

Superintendent Gerry Parker from the football policing unit says “The Met is committed to reducing crime and anti-social behaviour at football fixtures.”

“This means we will apply for fans found with drugs to receive a banning order and will appeal court results if the ban is not imposed.”

“People should be able to go to games, enjoy the match and come home safely.”