COLCHESTER United have reported an alleged 'racially motivated' comment directed at one of their players by a Barrow fan during their game at Holker Street last night.

U's boss Matt Bloomfield reported the alleged comment to the fourth official during the second half of Colchester's 3-1 defeat in League Two, leading to the individual being identified.

Bloomfield later made a statement to police.

A male was arrested for a racially aggravated public order offence and has now been released on bail.

In a statement, the club said: 'Colchester United have reported a racially motivated comment made about a U's player by a Barrow spectator.

'It was heard by U's Head Coach Matt Bloomfield, who immediately reported it to the fourth official, and the Stadium Safety Officer and both local and Essex Police were subsequently notified - with the individual identified.

'Following the game, Bloomfield made a statement to police and Colchester United understand that an arrest was made late on Tuesday night.

'As with the reports of racial abuse aimed at Shamal George last season, Colchester United support Barrow’s intention to  punish the person responsible.

 

'Like Barrow, Colchester United would like to make it absolutely clear that we abhor discrimination in all its forms.

'Once again, we would also like to commend Barrow in the effective way that they used the protocols available, and for their swift declaration that they will take the strongest action possible, including pursuing life bans, for anyone found guilty of racism.

'Colchester United will do everything we can to assist their and any subsequent EFL or criminal investigation into this matter.

'No person, in football or in our wider society, should have to be subjected to this discrimination.

'If you see or hear any discrimination at a football stadium, report it to the nearest steward or via the Kick It Out Reporting App.'

Last season, no action was taken after a complaint of alleged racist abuse aimed towards U's goalkeeper Shamal George from the home end was made during the first half of Colchester's 3-2 victory at Barrow.

An investigation took place but in October, 2021, Barrow chief executive Levi Gill said there was 'not enough certainty' around who was responsible and that a punishment could 'penalise an innocent party', with 'insufficient evidence' to progress the matter criminally.

 

In a club statement, Barrow said: 'Following last night’s League Two match between Barrow and Colchester United, a male has been arrested for a racially aggravated public order offence which occurred during the second half.

'The suspect has been released on bail, pending further investigation into the matter.

'Said investigation is underway, and if anybody has any information in relation to the incident, please contact PC Rickie Wallbank, the dedicated Football Officer for the Club on rickie.wallbank@cumbria.police.uk

'We must take this opportunity to emphasise that Barrow Association Football Club has a zero-tolerance approach to any racist behaviour, and any such incidents will be dealt with strongly.'