STAUNCH Gillingham supporter Alan Liptrott was today contemplating a life ban from Priestfield after being ejected from Saturday's home game against Reading shortly after kick-off.

Mr Liptrott, former chairman of the Gills Independent Supporters’ Club, was informed that a life ban had been imposed by club safety officer Malcolm Rous who escorted him from the ground.

He had been banned initially because of his refusal to negotiate over his ownership of the website address, gillinghamfc.co.uk.

In a statement issued on the club’s website, Gillingham chairman Paul Scally said: “I cannot believe the arrogance of the man - or maybe I can. He obviously believes he is above this club and beyond its control. He has treated his existing ban with utter contempt.

“I have made it clear that we will not do business with people who act against the interests of this club. He has claimed in the past a great love for this club. If that was the case, he would have tried to negotiate his way back into Priestfield by now.”

Mr Liptrott admitted he was devastated by the life ban and said: “I am a Gillingham supporter and will continue to support the club. I'm very passionate about the Gills, always have been, always will be.

“I refute the claim that I have not tried to negotiate my way back into the club. I had a meeting with Paul Scally, as well he knows, and it came to nothing. I have always been available for meaningful dialogue over this issue.”

Mark Agate, secretary of the Gills Independent Supporters' Club, confirmed that Mr Liptrott’s ban would be referred to the Government-backed Independent Football Commission. “Everything about Alan's case will be included in documentation that is being sent to the Commission and hopefully will be dealt with at their meeting early in December,” said Mr Agate.