Over recent months, we have seen an increase of supporters entering the field of play when goals are scored at the North Stand, particularly from the North Terrace and Family Stands.
We would like to take this opportunity to remind all fans that Rovers, and all clubs within the EFL, have a zero-tolerance approach to any supporters attempting to come onto the pitch at home and away matches, regardless of age.
As a club, we take the safety of supporters, players and staff extremely seriously, and any supporter who comes onto the pitch for any reason will be subject to bans from the club. This also includes any adults who are responsible for any children that encroach the pitch.
It is a criminal offence and therefore fans will also face potential police and court action. The local policing authorities will review CCTV to identify any perpetrators.
The club could also face both financial penalties and removal of points if found to be lacking in enforcement of this issue. Consequently, the brief actions of a minority could have a big impact on the wider club.
These regulations have never been more important than during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, as the pitch and surrounding touchline areas form part of the matchday red zone to prevent the spread of the virus and minimise the risk to players, staff and supporters.
In addition, in the light of the recent incident with Wycombe striker Adebayo Akinfenwa, we would like to remind all supporters of their conduct and ensure that any chants that are made remain respectful and do not cross the line.
As a family club, ensuring that all visitors to The Mem feel safe and welcome is the main priority. The only way that this is achieved is by everyone in the stadium playing their part and respecting each other and the ground regulations.
Additionally, to ensure and maintain the highest possible standard when it comes to safeguarding, and ensuring that all children that attend the game do so in a safe way, we have made a change to our entry policy for children attending the game unaccompanied by an adult.
All children under the age of 14, whether attending alone or as a group, must always have a responsible adult with them. This is for their own safety and not to discourage young people attending and is in line with many other venues and stadia.
We thank supporters for their co-operation and look forward to seeing you all back at The Mem for the game on Saturday against Mansfield.