As another thrilling Toolstation NCEL campaign draws to an end, the league has joined others across England to remind everyone to Love Football and Protect the Game.

Throughout this season, we have witnessed some unwelcome and unsavoury scenes at games.

We know that this unacceptable behaviour, including the use of pyrotechnics, pitch encroachment and abusive behaviour, is carried out by a minority of fans, and their actions do not represent most supporters, but they risk ruining the fantastic experience of a football match for everyone.

In some cases, the throwing of pyrotechnics onto the field of play can cause significant damage to pitch surfaces which incurs unexpected costs for clubs and puts the health and safety of all at serious risk.

At the start of this season, the Premier League, EFL, The FA and the NLS Leagues including the Toolstation NCEL, worked with the FSA to introduced new measures and stronger sanctions to tackle anti-social and criminal behaviours, such as entering the pitch and the use of pyrotechnics.

This includes automatic club bans and the possibility of police action. Club bans can also extend to accompanying parents or guardians of children who take part in this activity.

As we reach the exciting culmination of another thrilling football season, we want fans to continue to show their support as this can make all the difference to a team’s fortunes, but please do in a positive and safe manner.

Love Football. Protect the Game.