A man has been fined for racially aggravated harassment following Gillingham’s League 1 match against Millwall in April.

Police were out in force inside and outside the Priestfield Stadium for the 3pm game on Saturday, April 8 to prevent clashes between rival fans.

James Chuter, 66, of Highcombe Close in Mottingham, south London, was arrested in Priestfield Road, Gillingham at 5pm.

He appeared at Medway Magistrates on Monday, May 16 where he pleaded guilty to racially or religiously aggravated harassment at Priestfield Football Stadium.

Chuter was fined £150 and ordered to pay a £30 victim surcharge and £50 court costs.

He was also charged with using threatening or abusive words or behaviour or disorderly behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress at Priestfield Football Stadium. This has been adjourned to a later date.

After the match, Chief Superintendent Andrea Bishop, from Kent Police, said: "Extra officers were on duty to assist visitors attending the game, as is the case with any large scale event.

"Our aim was always to ensure that fans were able to safely enjoy the match while, at the same time, keeping disruption caused to the wider community at a minimum.

"I am pleased that we were able to ensure this happened."

She added: "The vast majority of fans attended to enjoy the match and co-operated fully with our officers. This support helped ensure the game was safe and enjoyable for those in attendance.

"Disorder on the day was minimal, with one arrest made and this was for a public order offence. The suspect was dealt with quickly and efficiently by our officers and he has since been charged."