MP Charlie Elphicke has joined criticism of Dover Athletic for allowing Saturday’s game against Forest Green Rovers to be sponsored by the United Kingdom Independence Party.

Some Whites supporters boycotted the game in protest at the club’s decision to allow Ukip to sponsor it. The club’s website initially said the game was being sponsored by Ukip, but this was later changed to ‘David Little (the party’s Dover & Deal parliamentary candidate) and Friends.’ It is believed the sponsorship cost £800. The game, which ended in a 0-0 draw, attracted 916 supporters.

Mr Elphicke, who told the Mercury some people had protested to him directly, said: “Many fans have complained to me saying that they don’t think it is right to mix sport with politics.

“I don’t think it is right for any political party to get involved in sports sponsorship.

“I support the club - the chairman has done a brilliant job, as have the directors.”

Mr Little said he and 12 other party supporters all individually pledged their sponsorship. He said that it was not a publicity stunt for Ukip and it was just a “good day out” supporting the local team.

Mr Little posted on Facebook: “Good game at Crabble today, 0-0 fair result. Really well looked after by DAFC directors and staff, thoroughly enjoyed the day.”

Sponsors usually receive special treatment on the day, including a meal before the match and the chance to sit in the director’s box.

Mr Little told the Mercury: “Going back a couple of months ago I went to see Dover play and I saw there were a lack of games that are sponsored.

“I asked them [DAFC] if they would object to sponsorship but they said they would be delighted. We just wanted to help the club out.

“Some of the people I went with are regulars at Crabble and two or three are season ticket holders.”

He added: “Charlie is quite happy to have his picture taken when he is at the club himself. It is double standards for him. We will be doing it again in the new year.”

Dover Athletic chairman Jim Parmenter hit back at the criticism, calling Mr Elphicke a “hypocrite."

He said: “It was just a guy with a group of friends. There was no advertising of politics and there is no interest in the party.

“It is no big deal - we are not going to endorse or support any political party.
“Charlie Elphicke is a hypocrite and has been to Dover matches many times and has used pictures of himself there in a political leaflet. He should practice his own beliefs.
“Everyone is welcome. We reach out to all walks of life.”

Dover Athletic play in the Vanarama Conference, and travel to Cheltenham for an FA Cup 2nd round game a week on Sunday.