EDUCATE KID FANS ON PYRO DANGERS

Call for action on fireworks in stands

FAN representatives in Scotland are pleading for young fans to be educated on the dangers of pyro.

Scottish Football Supporters Association (SFSA) chiefs have floated plans with senior MSPs on the potential formation of a body to instruct fans about the abuse of dangerous flares and fireworks.

The appeal came after the Viaplay Cup final between Celtic and Rangers was shrouded in smoke, with fans from both sides copying the “ultras” behaviour of continental fans.

The pyro craze has been accompanied with increased throwing of missiles.

SFSA CEO Stuart Murphy said: “On pyro, we accept that some fans think it is part of fan culture, that it builds atmosphere. But there are also very obvious inherent waRning Saturday’s story dangers. We have been discussing how we can best connect with fans in an education programme that involves the Scottish Government, police and our own organisation – because at the moment there is nothing.

“There is no point in just slapping people with bans.

“We are offering to hold a conference or have a series of fan workshops on where the game is right now and to report back from experiences in Europe – particularly Norway and Sweden – where safe pyro sections have been introduced.”

Murphy said it is inevitable that a major injury will occur if changes are not made. He said: “Doing nothing is not an option yet that is what we are doing. “Do we really have to wait until a child is maimed or suffers a critical phosphorous burn in their face before we take action? “It’s a similar situation with other difficult areas such as action on racism, homophobia or sectarianism. It is not wise just ignoring these issues until something more serious happens in the future.” On Saturday the Record told of claims that a lack of urgency has set in with flares. The SFA, SPFL and Police Scotland have already held talks on how to tighten up security and deter the pyro craze. The Scottish Government has been asked to comment.