Sunderland fan banned for racist abuse (From Durham Times)

Sunderland fan banned for racist abuse

11:40am Saturday 6th February 2010

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A SUNDERLAND fan who racially abused the mother of the team’s striker, Darren Bent, has been banned from attending games for three years.

John Davison, 26, of Chester-le-Street, shouted at Shirley Bent as she walked past on her way to watch her son play at Wigan Athletic.

Katie McFarlane, prosecuting, said Mrs Bent was so upset she identified him to officials. Police brought Davison to her. He said sorry and added the Sunderland forward was one of his favourite players.

Mrs Bent later decided to take further action after telling her son about the incident. He wrote on his Twitter page: ‘‘My mum gets racially abused by a SUNDERLAND fan. I won’t stand for that.’’ Davison handed himself in and sent flowers and a letter of apology to Mrs Bent.

Davison, of Avondale Terrace, admitted using threatening words or behaviour in a racially aggravated manner.

He was given a three-year banning order, fined £170 and ordered to pay Mrs Bent £50. He was also ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £15 victim impact charge. SAFC has revoked his season ticket.

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