An object exploded on the pitch as Notts County FC played Chesterfield FC in a clash whcih ended with a 2-2 draw. Chesterfield supporter Gareth Colbert, 33, of Sycamore Avenue, Creswell, Worksop, had thrown a pyrotechnic on to the Meadow Lane ground on August 20 this year.
A steward saw Colbert chuck a "white and grey object". At first it was believed to be a cigarette but, as it hit the ground, there was a loud bang similar to a firework. "Police were informed of this," said Sanjay Jareth, prosecuting at Nottingham Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (Setember 27).
"The defendant was arrested. There was no trace of the item afterwards. In essence, as soon as it hit the ground, it was obliterated. CCTV showed the defendant throwing a missile onto the pitch".
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Players were on the pitch and people nearby but "fortunately no one was injured...but there is that potential risk", added Mr Jareth. Colbert pleaded guilty to throwing a missile onto a football playing area.
He has previous convictions for being drunk and disorderly but Mr Jareth added: "He is not a frequent flyer for offences before the courts".
But of the latest offence, he told magistrates: "Not only has he thrown an object on to the football pitch, which has exploded, we don't need these type of supporters at regular footbal grounds, in fact, we don't need them at any type of sporting event.
"The players, the supporters, the stewards and officials do not need to be put at risk by people throwing objects onto the ground where matches are being played".
Colbert, representing himself, said he acquired the pyrotechnic that day. A three-year football banning order was imposed, a fine of £450, costs order of £85, and a victim surcharge of £180.
The defendant declined to comment further when approached by Nottinghamshire Live following the hearing.
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