News
STATEMENT | Values and Behaviours
Following incidents of anti-social behaviour at last Saturday’s match, Bedford Blues would like to remind attendees of the Club’s values and expected behaviours at Goldington Road.
Obviously, these incidents only involved a very small number of people, and is not reflective of our much wider supporter base. We are very proud to have the best supporters in the league and appreciate their loyalty as crowds continue to be in growth at GR.
However, the Club wish to make it clear that such poor conduct from individuals will not be tolerated, and is not welcome at any Bedford Blues fixture, home or away.
A number of incidents were observed last weekend, both inside the ground and on social media, which we wish to make specific reference to.
Physical damage in any venue is not acceptable, last week someone decided to smash a porcelain toilet to pieces and snap a pipe in the CMC Marquee male toilets. If anyone wishes to own up to this damage or witnessed the incident, the club would be appreciative of anyone reaching out.
Supporter ejections are extremely rare at Goldington Road, sadly we were forced to ask an individual to leave on Saturday following physical violence in the Legends Bar. Whilst this was an isolated incident between friends, this is not acceptable.
Supporters are more than welcome to make comments of disappointment on social media, we share the exact same feelings. However, please don’t allow this to overstep to personal abuse or make defamatory and disparaging comments regards matters unrelated to the 80 minutes on the field.
The same level of respect should be shown towards the match officials and our own staffing team, be that stewarding, gate staff, bar team etc. Abusive comments are not tolerated and rudeness is not acceptable, we have rules to comply with, please respect them and each other – we all want the same outcome in the Blues Family. One such incident from the weekend has already been dealt with.
The club has also received an alarming report of abuse of a ball team member which will be investigated and is a safeguarding matter. If these reports are substantiated and the individuals found, they will be permanently banned from Bedford Blues.
Should any supporter at any game witness something of concern, they are encouraged to report this to a steward or member of club staff immediately. You can also send an email to the club by clicking here.
Bedford Blues is proud to be an inclusive family club and will not tolerate any behaviour which threatens such a positive environment at Goldington Road.
There will be no further public comment in relation to the nature of this Club Statement, and we look forward to seeing many supporters travel with the team on the road this Saturday for the ‘Big Blues Day Out’ to Cambridge.
Bedford Blues’ values remain Passion, Adaptability, Unity, Sustainability and Enjoyment. Rugby’s values remain Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship.
