A Burnley FC supporter has been hit with a five-year football banning order after breaching a previous ban and running onto the pitch at Turf Moor.
Sean Lloyd, 34, of Station Road, Cross Hills, Keighley, appeared before Blackburn Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 16th May, where he pleaded guilty to going onto the playing area at a football match and breaching the terms of an existing football banning order.
The incident occurred on Monday 21st April at Turf Moor, following Burnley’s 2-1 victory over Sheffield United – a result that secured the Clarets’ promotion to the Premier League. Lloyd entered the pitch at full-time despite being banned from attending football matches.
According to Lancashire Police, Lloyd was in violation of Section 4 of the Football Offences Act. His illegal pitch incursion and presence at the stadium, while already banned, have resulted in fresh sanctions from the court.
Strict Conditions Imposed
As well as the five-year ban, the court imposed the following conditions on Lloyd:
- He must not enter the vicinity of Turf Moor or Burnley town centre for four hours before and after kick-off on home matchdays.
- He is prohibited from being within five miles of any ground where Burnley FC are playing an away fixture.
In addition to the banning order, Lloyd was fined £660, ordered to pay £85 in costs, and must pay a victim surcharge of £286.
Police Condemn Behaviour
PC Byron Worrall, Football Risk Management Officer for Lancashire Police, commented on the incident:
“Sean Lloyd’s behaviour in entering the playing area was totally unacceptable. He was flouting a football banning order by being at the ground.
I hope the lengthy ban imposed on Lloyd by the court sends out a message that behaviour like this will not be tolerated.”
Football banning orders are legal measures designed to prevent violence and disorder at football matches. Breaching such orders is a serious offence, and courts have the authority to impose harsh penalties, including imprisonment.
Keeping Fans and Players Safe
Lancashire Constabulary has reinforced its commitment to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for both players and fans. Pitch invasions and unauthorised access to playing areas can lead to safety risks, disrupt play, and undermine public trust in matchday security.
The incident also serves as a reminder to football fans across Lancashire and the wider North West that conduct at football grounds is taken seriously by law enforcement.