Kick It Out press release

The following Press Release was distributed by Kick It Out the day the club issued its Ross Weatherstone “statement”:

Press Release ­ 17 August 2000

Campaign criticises club over race attack player

The campaign is concerned that whilst players have been dismissed or given long term suspensions for less serious legal offences in the past, such as recreational drug use, being found guilty of “racially aggravating, threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour” warrants strong action from the club.

The Second Division club issued a two-line statement today saying:
“Oxford United football club follows a firm policy of anti-racism and has done so for many years.
“However, the Directors, players and officials fully support RossWeatherstone at this difficult time.”

Piara Powar, National Co-ordinator of the campaign today said,
“The two sentences of Oxford United¹s statement contradict each other. If the club do indeed follow a firm policy of anti-racism they are failing to implement it by backing someone convicted of a race attack.

“It is not for us to tell the club what action to take against their own employees but a statement indicating how seriously they take this case was required, not inane comments about the player going through a difficult time.

“Given the seriousness of the attack and the important role that young footballers play in their local communities Weatherstone should be treated like any other high profile employee of a key local institution – a long suspension or the sack.”

For further information please contact Piara Powar on 020 7 288 6012 or 0973 14 95 96.

Evans funeral date announced

Maurice Evans' funeral will take place next Thursday, August 31st in Didcot. It will be a private affair for family only. Anyone wishing to make donations should send them to the Heart Foundation. Reading FC are trying to organise a memorial service at Madjeski Stadium! Further details will be posted as available.

High Jarman

Lee Jarman is doubtless extremely pleased that his performance at Wolves on Tuesday has earned him another month at United. His contract has been extended for a further month in order to allow Denis Smith to take a further look at him.
Meanwhile it has transpired that Hubert Busby was at fault for two of swindon's three goals in yesterday's reserve match, although he claims that he was fouled for the first one.