Port Vale have launched an investigation into alleged racist chanting by home supporters during their League One match against Bradford City on Saturday.
The club revealed that they have received a number of complaints from their own fans regarding abuse directed at the visiting Bradford supporters from the Railway Paddock in Vale Park.
Port Vale have notified the FA about the incident and have condemned the behaviour of those involved, saying that they are not welcome at their ground.
"Port Vale is bitterly disappointed to receive a number of complaints of alleged racist chanting from home supporters in the Railway Paddock towards the visiting Bradford City supporters on Saturday," the club said in a statement released on their official website. "As well as numerous complaints to the club, all from Port Vale fans, a complaint has also been raised directly by a home supporter with 'Kick It Out', football's equality and inclusion campaign. In turn, this has now been escalated to the Football Association.
"Port Vale does not tolerate mindless behaviour of any kind and any supporter who is found to be partaking in abusive or discriminatory behaviour of a racist nature faces a life ban from Vale Park, as well as the possibility of criminal proceedings. These allegations tarnish not only the good name of Port Vale Football Club, but also the thousands of Valiants supporters, including families and children, who attend home games with no issues.
"Port Vale would strongly urge supporters who enjoy taking part in racially motivated abuse not to attend games. You are not welcome at Vale Park. If you have any information relating to Saturday's alleged chants, please contact the club. Any information will be treated in the strictest of confidence."
Port Vale won the match 2-1 to leave themselves 12th in the League One table after three games.
Barney Corkhill
