A Kent Police unit formed last July and made up of specially trained officers, is tackling football related crime following a change in national legislation which meant that 'regulated games' now included non-league football matches.

The unit is in the process of applying for a Football Banning Order after a man was found guilty of assaulting two stewards at a Gillingham football match last year.

All major football fixtures in Kent are covered by the team; this includes Gillingham, Ebbsfleet, Dartford, Dover and Tonbridge.

Attached to the unit are dedicated 'football spotters' who monitor tensions and behaviour within football stadiums and also lookout for those who have previously been banned from football grounds. If an offence is seen the spotters can direct officers to arrest the person responsible.

Police say the football banning orders are a preventative measure designed to stop potential troublemakers from travelling to and attending football matches, both at home and abroad. Anyone who commits a football related offence at one of these Stadiums can be arrested and a football banning order applied for.

PC Geoff Greensmith said: "The vast majority of people want to enjoy their football and support their team. Quite often watching the local team is a family affair and people do not want to be intimidated by the minority of so-called fans who cause trouble. Our message is simple - if you cause trouble you will be arrested, put before the court and potentially banned from entering a football ground again.

"We are here to create an environment for football fans to enjoy the match and feel safe."

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012