Football fans support steward after attack

BBC A view of the Frome Town FC building from the pitchBBC
Radek Evans was assaulted after a match with Basingstoke Town FC

Football team fans have united to help a steward with a fundraiser after he was knocked unconscious by an opposition supporter.

Frome Town FC volunteer steward Radek Evans was assaulted when he noticed fans from Basingstoke walking off with a club flag after the team's draw against Basingstoke Town on Saturday at around 17:00 BST, police said.

Basingstoke Town FC has condemned the attack.

One person was initially arrested and then de-arrested following the incident. Avon and Somerset Police said enquiries are ongoing.

Lester standing in front of the Frome football pitch wearing glasses and a red tie
Frome chairman Lester Silk said it was Mr Evan's wish to have a new recycling shed

Frome Town FC chairman Lester Silk said members have decided to raise money to make a recycling shed for Radek.

"It was only a minority of the Basingstoke supporters that were involved," he said.

"He was walking down Barclay Road to get his lift and he noticed that they were actually taking our Frome Town advertising banner flag.

"He said, 'I would love to have a shed that I could put all of my recycling stuff in'.

"So on Sunday we had a meeting and it was decided to set up a page so that we could achieve his wish."

'We condemn the behaviour'

A spokesperson from Basingstoke FC said they "strongly condemn" the behaviour of the attackers.

"Their behaviour does not reflect the values of our club and the vast majority of our well behaved supporters," they said.

"We are a community-focused club that prides itself on welcoming everyone.

"We are currently working closely with Frome Town FC and the police to identify those involved, and we will ensure that appropriate steps are taken."

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