CHERRIES are cracking down on its away supporters following numerous incidents of drug possession, aggressive behaviour and abuse of the ticket system.

The club issued a statement condemning the behaviour of the perpetrators, stating that they “adversely” impact the reputation of the club and other supporters.

A spokesperson said: “Over the last three away matches we have seen 13 incidents where our supporters have had to be dealt with by away club stewards and/or police.

“These incidents have included possession of Class A or Class B drugs, being intoxicated and aggressive/inflammatory behaviour.

“In eight of these 13 cases, the ticket holder was not the person to whom the seat was issued.

Bournemouth Echo:

“In addition, in each of our last five away games, a flare has been set off by one of our supporters. This is both very dangerous in terms of the safety of others but also a criminal offence.

“All of the above adversely affects the reputation of both AFC Bournemouth and you, our supporters, and we take this very seriously. We are sure that you, like us, will know that such behaviour is not representative of the vast majority of Cherries supporters and hope that you will assist us in tackling these issues.”

As a result, Cherries will impose strict conditions for fans hoping to attend the remaining two away games this season. Breaching the conditions could result in a ban.

These are:

  • If you have passed on your ticket for Crystal Palace or Everton, you should inform the club immediately, giving details of the person who now possesses the ticket.
  • If you find you are no longer able to attend either of these fixtures, let the ticketing team know by emailing tickets@afcb.co.uk or telephoning 01202 726300.
  • If attending either of these away matches, take (and make sure others in your party take) ID as the club have agreed with the away clubs a process of checking this against tickets to ensure the person attending is the person on the system.
  • If you attend a game, are stopped and the ticket you have in your possession does not match your ID, you will not be permitted to enter.
  • If you bought a ticket, did not refund or inform the ticketing team that you are not able to attend, and that ticket is found to be in the possession of another supporter trying to gain entry, you will have the relevant Away Point removed and will have your ticketing account suspended. This suspension will inevitably affect close season and 2023/24 matches.
  • If you are aware of someone in possession of a pyrotechnic or witness one being thrown, report this to the nearest steward or police officer as soon as possible.

AFC Bournemouth also said it would “fully assist” away clubs and police action in respect of its supporters being found to be in possession of or using a pyrotechnic.

The spokesperson added: “We do of course want you to enjoy your away game experience, especially at this time in the season. However, the safety of our supporters and club staff, AFC Bournemouth’s good reputation and reducing ticket/points abuse are all too important to ignore.

“Thank you for your co-operation in this and your support.”