A FOOTBALL fan has been handed a banning order for shouting homophobic abuse at an Albion match.

Luke Reece was overheard directing abuse at nearby Brighton fans by a member of club staff during the Premier League game against Arsenal at the Amex stadium on October 2, 2021.

After realising he had been spotted, the 21-year-old attempted to leave the ground, but was stopped by staff and subsequently arrested by police.

Following a trial at Brighton Magistrates’ Court, Reece was convicted of indecent chanting at a designated football match.

He was handed a three-year football banning order. He was also fined and ordered to pay costs.

District crown prosecutor for CPS South East and CPS football national lead Richard Dawes said: “There is no room for homophobia in society.

“The comments are unacceptable and would cause great offence regardless of the venue. Brighton is known for its inclusive culture with a large LGBTQI+ community.

“Behaviour like this will not be tolerated and we are grateful to the member of staff at Brighton and Hove Albion for their prompt response in both recognising the hateful nature of this chanting and taking immediate action to deal with the situation.”