Park football could be banned over fears of fights

Football in the park could be banned over fears the "passion" in the games could lead to fights. Guidance issued to councils by Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has told organisers of local games to carry out risk assessments before allowing them to go ahead.

If there is a danger tensions between teams or fans could lead to confrontations then the game may have to be called off, it suggests. It is the latest in a series of moves attacked by critics as politically correct or health and safety madness

Michael Rufus, a football fan who lives at Golders Green, North London, called the latest guidance "patronising", adding: "Football is about high passions – there is always the risk of a bust-up."



Shadow communities secretary Eric Pickles said: "This will give a green light to jobsworths to ban competitive sport. Football has potential to promote community spirit and keep young people out of trouble."

The guidance is contained in a 53-page document issued by the Department for Communities and Local Government.

It said: "If not planned properly, football can be divisive and trigger conflict. Passions can get high and physical contact can easily lead to confrontations."