TWO men have been banned from attending football matches and one of them was jailed for fighting at a Forest Green Rovers match.

The pair appeared before Bristol Magistrates Court on Thursday, June 9 and pleaded guilty to one public order charge regarding threatening behaviour and a second for pitch incursion while dressed as Knights Templars following the 0-0 draw at The Memorial Stadium in Bristol Rovers v Forest Green Rovers in April.

James Mallett, of Moravian Road in Kingswood, was jailed for 10 weeks and order to pay a total of £128 in costs and fine.

The 36-year-old lunged at police and he received a 10-year football banning order after magistrates heard he had previously had a six-year ban.

An 18-month community order was handed to Daniel Athey, of Church Road in Kingswood, in addition to a three-year football banning order.

The 39-year-old also will be required to carry out 220 hours of community service and pay costs and a fine totalling £280.

Avon and Somerset Inspector Mark Nicholson said: “Threatening behaviour and actions that could potentially endanger public safety will not be tolerated.

“Thousands of football fans enjoy games across Avon and Somerset without issue every season. I am sure they will welcome the bans handed down by the courts to these six individuals who have acted irresponsibly.

“We will continue to proactively work with football clubs so match days remain an occasion all fans can enjoy and safely attend.”