Bantams issue ban after violence

Bradford have banned away fans from their new North West Corner Stand.

Violence flared during Saturday's 3-0 home defeat against Manchester United.

City chairman Geoffrey Richmond has been forced to issue an apology to those Bradford supporters who were attacked by United fans after Sir Alex Ferguson's side scored the opening goal.

A large number of the 2,200 seated in the Corner Stand, which was unveiled on Boxing Day for the visit of Sunderland, spilled over into the neighbouring Carling Stand where many families are situated.

With a lack of adequate stewarding preventing the invasion, several fights broke out as children looked on in horror, sparking outrage among City fans after the game.

The club received a flood of complaints, with Richmond responding swiftly as he said: "I am totally sorry for the operational errors which were made on Saturday. They will not be allowed to happen again.

"The history of the behaviour of Manchester United fans did not suggest there would be any problems, however in the light of the occurrences, we have taken a decision to ensure there are no re-occurrences in the future."

The only exception to Richmond's decision is for the game with Liverpool which has yet to be rearranged following the postponement of the original fixture on December 30 as tickets have already been sold to away fans.

Richmond has also arranged for an open day at the club on January 27, inviting all children who were affected by Saturday's events to meet the players.