Man given Football Banning Order after admitting to drug possession at game between Southend United and Sittingbourne FC

A football fan has been banned from attending a match for three years after admitting possession of cocaine while at a game.

On February 1, during a game between Southend United and Sittingbourne FC, security staff at Roots Hall Football Stadium in Southend-on-Sea spotted a man going back and forth to the toilets.

He was stopped and searched, and a packet of white powder was found.

Essex Police were called, and the substance, which was later confirmed to be cocaine, was seized.

John Millie, of Kenley Gardens, Hornchurch, who had been at the football ground as an away supporter, made a full admission in a statement.

Last Friday (June 13), the 39-year-old admitted possession of a Class A drug at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court.

He was sentenced to a three-year Football Banning Order, which restricts his access to matches.

He was fined £484, ordered to pay £85 costs and a £184 surcharge.

Dedicated football officer Keith Baker said: “Football is known as the beautiful game with people coming week in and week out to support their local team.

"We know that consumption of drugs fuels disorder at football matches and we are committed to kicking that type of behaviour out of grounds in our county.

"We are committed to ensuring football grounds across Essex are places where you can come and cheer on your team, focusing on the players’ performance without worrying about the behaviour of other supporters."