Morecambe Football Club has apologised after children were physically searched at a football league game.
The club has investigated after complaints by fans about incidents at the match between Morecambe and Chesterfield at the Mazuma Mobile Stadium on October 26.
A statement released by the board of directors over the weekend, said:
"Following recent concerns raised directly with the club through official communication channels, the board of directors would like to provide an update on the safeguarding investigation carried out by our HR and safeguarding team.
"Their investigation included a thorough review of CCTV footage and consultations with members of the security team, our head of stadium operations, and ground safety officer.
"This process confirmed that several under-18s were physically searched by a member of the security agency contracted by the club.
"This individual, who is fully trained and DBS-cleared, was briefed before the match that under-18s were not to be physically searched; however, this instruction was regrettably not followed.
"We sincerely apologise for this breach of protocol and any distress caused.
"Those who raised their concerns with us directly were invited to meet at the club to discuss the findings of our investigation and receive a formal apology.
"Unfortunately, they were unable to attend, so we have since shared the investigation details with them and our apology through written correspondence.
"In response to this incident, we have made immediate amendments to our safeguarding procedures.
"A new club searching policy has been established which will be uploaded to our website in the coming days, reinforcing our commitment to protecting the well-being of all fans, including under-18s and vulnerable adults.
"Additionally, we have updated our pre-match briefing process for stewards to ensure that instructions regarding searches of minors are emphasised and strictly adhered to.
"We thank everyone who reached out through our official channels and appreciate your trust and patience as we work to strengthen our safeguarding practices for a safe and positive fan experience."
There were also complaints from fans at the Chesterfield game that balloons had been confiscated from supporters, and destroyed.
The club released a separate statement about this, which said:
"Following recent concerns about the handling of balloons during a recent match, the board of directors would like to provide clarity on the situation and the decision-making process behind it.
"Complaints were received from several supporters, and each person who raised an issue was contacted personally via email, with an explanation of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
"On the morning of the match, we received information regarding a group planning to disrupt the game. Due to the vague nature of this information, and considering the heightened security risk, the ground safety officer made the decision to implement additional security checks.
"The responsibility for security decisions, including what items can be brought into the stadium, rests solely with the ground safety fficer and his team, who have our full support and backing in making these calls. We trust them to make the right decisions in the best interests of match, player, and spectator safety.
"The decision to dispose of the balloons was made as a precaution to avoid any possible interruption of the match, and any potential sanctions by the EFL, particularly as the match was being broadcast live on TV. While there was no instruction to take balloons from children, any balloons that made it to the front of the stand were to be burst to prevent any potential issues. We do not have evidence that balloons were taken from children, but if this occurred, we sincerely apologise for any distress caused.
"Additionally, we would like to address concerns regarding the use of inappropriate language and threats made towards stewards during the match. Stewards are acting under direction from the ground safety officer and are an essential part of ensuring the safe operation of the stadium. Without their dedication, we would not be able to open the stadium or host matches. We do not tolerate any form of abuse or threats directed towards our staff.
"Moving forward, balloons will be allowed in the stadium for celebrations or protests. However, they will be restricted to areas behind the crush barriers. Any balloons that land at the front of the stand will be burst to prevent disruption to the match or fans from rushing forward towards the pitch and creating a security risk.
"We understand the frustration caused by this incident and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience experienced. The uncertain circumstances leading up to the match necessitated the decision that was made. We would also like to stress that we are committed to working together with all fans, the Shrimps Trust, and any protest groups in the best interest of Morecambe FC.
"Ultimately, we all want the same goal — to ensure the survival and secure future of the club, for both its supporters and the community.
"We remain committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all supporters and appreciate your ongoing support."
Tarnia Elsworth, chair of the Shrimps Trust which represents Morecambe FC supporters, said: "The Shrimps Trust are aware of the statements released by the club in relation to the stewarding at the Chesterfield match.
"Of our members, we were made aware of two complaints. Those individuals have been contacted by the club directly.
"We have asked the two members if they are satisfied with the club's response, and both members have indicated to us that they are content with the response received from Morecambe Football Club, and will take no further steps of complaint.
"If any member remains dissatisfied we are happy to support them in communication with the club.
"It is important that people reach out to us via the proper channels (hello@shrimpstrust.co.uk). We are unable to provide comments or support through social media."
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