GRAYS ATHLETIC fans may have to get used to a sizeable police presence for the rest of the season as the fall-out from the incidents outside the Tilbury versus Grays game continues.
Many fans turning up to the Grays Ath v Maldon and Tiptree fixture on January 8th at Rookery Hill were surprised to see two van-loads full of riot-trained police officers plus strategically positioned vehicles around the Corringham area.
The tactical deployment was repeated at Barrows Farm, Harlow yesterday (Saturday) for the Ryman Division One North fixture. Outside the ground a large police van was joined by a further two vehicles as a dozen officers patrolled outside the ground.
Inside, Harlow Town deployed around twenty five stewards for the 242 fans at the game, which Grays won 2-1.
Grays and Harlow fans mingled happily before, during and after the game but it must be a source of frustration for the Grays fans that many wrongly assume that the increased police presence is due to Grays fans.
A spokesperson for Essex Police explained the reason for the heightened police presence.
He said: “There was a low level police presence at the game commensurate with intelligence received.
“We will consider what is appropriate on a match-by-match basis.”
With many clubs already facing financial difficulties, the possible burden of extra bills coming for extra stewarding and policing for every time Grays Ath come to town, may well be most unwelcome.
Grays next home game is against Needham Market on Wednesday at 7.45pm.
