BANBURY United’s board of directors have issued an apology following allegations of racism during the Puritans’ Emirates FA Cup defeat at Bracknell Town.

A statement said anyone identified as having made racist comments will be banned by the club.

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The statement says: “We await official correspondence from our opponents and the FA to help us investigate allegations of racism.

“As a club we will not tolerate racism, it has no place in society and we apologise to Bracknell and Anthony Cheshire for any racist comments that were made, individuals should not be subjected to this.

“Anyone identified as having made such comments will be banned by the club.”

Banbury are urging anyone with evidence to contact info@banburyunitedfc.co.uk

Cheshire, a 20-year-old defender, tweeted: “Confused, angry and upset are just a few words to describe how I felt yesterday and how I feel right now, but I just wanted to say thank you to everyone that consoled and supported me yesterday.

“Football is an inclusive game, and everyone should feel safe playing it.”

Berkshire side Bracknell issued a statement, confirming they would seek to identify those responsible.

The statement read: “Unfortunately a small number of Banbury United fans deemed it acceptable to hurl racial slurs at our players and staff, which we find extremely disturbing and offensive.

“This language and conduct has no place in our sport or society, and must be eliminated.

“We will coordinate with the police and the FA to identify each individual supporter behind the goal.”

The Puritans missed the chance to make the first round of the FA Cup for the third year in a row, after falling to a 2-1 defeat at Bracknell.

The hosts took the lead after seven minutes, only for Puritans debutant Slavi Spasov to equalise with a header.

The Oxford United striker joined Banbury on loan for a month, on Friday.

Bracknell made it 2-1 early in the second half, with the Puritans unable to find an equaliser.