Troublesome fans will be banned from Viking home games (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Pubwatch bans extended to include sports events

5:14pm Monday 25th February 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan

BANS under the Widnes Pubwatch scheme have been extended to include sports events at Stobart Stadium.

Anyone subject to a Pubwatch ban in the town can now be refused entry to Widnes Vikings home matches.

PCSO Ian Leadbetter, of Halton licensing department said: "The stadium is fully licensed and the Vikings do not want people who are responsible for alcohol-related anti-social behaviour attending and affecting the family atmosphere.

"It is hoped that this will raise awareness about the Widnes Pubwatch scheme and deter people from behaving irresponsibly."

Widnes Pubwatch currently has 22 people serving Pubwatch bans.

Stobart Stadium manager, John Caldwell said: "We are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all spectators and are proud to be a member of the Halton Pubwatch scheme.

"All our stewards will be briefed on the members of the public who are banned under the scheme and will be able to refuse them entry to the stadium."

Pubwatch chairman Chris Headon said: "It′s a welcome development that Stobart Stadium and Widnes Viking are supporting Pubwatch to deter those people who are causing alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in our pubs, clubs and venues.

"We want customers to enjoy a pleasant evening with friends without the worry of anti-social behaviour ruining their evening."

The Stobart Stadium sports bar received ArcAngel accreditation in 2012 and has worked closely with the police, Pubwatch and other agencies.