Luton Town CEO urges fans to stop chants in support of Tommy Robinson

Luton Town’s CEO has called on the club’s fans to stop chants in support of Tommy Robinson, after a section of their support was heard to back the founder of the English Defence League.

In a statement released on the club’s website, Gary Sweet said the club’s Carabao Cup tie against West Brom was “blemished” after the name of “a political figurehead” was sung by the visiting fans. Far-right activist Robinson – real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon – was jailed for contempt of court after he filmed outside Leeds crown court during a trial, but was released on bail earlier this month after an appeal court ruled that he should face a retrial.

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A small number of Luton’s 1,100-strong travelling support were heard to sing Robinson’s name at the Hawthorns, a game Luton lost 1-0, as they also did in the Hatters’ previous away game, against Portsmouth in League One.

“Apart from the result, our experience was blemished, for the second away game running, by hearing the chanting the name of a political figurehead by a small number of Hatters supporters,” said Sweet. “This is hugely disappointing for us, as a board, because the individual in question wasn’t playing or involved in the squad or staff.

“Everyone at the club has worked extremely hard and will continue to work tirelessly to create an environment – whether that be Kenilworth Road or any away game – for our community of supporters to support their team and enjoy a football match knowing that all prejudice – whether that be political, religious, cultural or racial – can and should be left for another day.

“This allows us to invite anybody into our environment without discomfort, disrespect or fear, and welcome any and every member of our wide community respectfully.

“We absolutely accept and respect the fact that everyone holds their own independent opinions and values, but we politely ask for you to temporarily overlook those views for a couple of hours or so when attending Luton Town matches in future.”

Luton’s next away game is against Peterborough United this Saturday.