Hibs chief executive Leeann Dempster warns fans will be banned if they’re caught using pyrotechnics

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Hibs chief executive Leeann Dempster has warned that any fans caught using pyrotechnics will be banned by the club.

Smokes bombs were thrown on to the pitch during Saturday’s Scottish Cup quarter-final 3-1 win over Ayr United, while a similar device was used during the recent derby victory over city rivals Hearts in the same competition.

The Leith outfit have also warned that supporters also face the possibility of a football banning order and criminal prosecution.

The Championship leaders were also disappointed that several fans also ran on to the pitch after Jason Cummings scored the opening goal in the 2-1 cup victory over Hearts.

Dempster said: “The backing that we have had from the fans this season has been terrific. Our average gates are the fourth highest in the country and the fans have also responded to Neil Lennon’s call earlier in the season for a more vocal backing.

“The Hibernian support deserves massive praise and our appreciation for that. We want all supporters to enjoy coming to games, we want a great atmosphere and we want the fans to go home happy. However we all need to do this in a safe and considerate manner.

“The club are already investigating several incidents involving pyrotechnics and pitch incursions at the recent Edinburgh Derby, and will be doing so again after Saturday’s win over Ayr United.

“We ask that supporters enjoy the exciting run in to the end of the season and support the club in our efforts to win the league and retain the Scottish Cup without resorting to unacceptable behaviours that can lead to the club and the individual facing charges.”

Robbie McGregor, Hibernian Football Safety Officer, said: “Pyrotechnic articles operate at very high temperatures, well above 600 degrees and can operate in excess of 1500 degrees in the case of flares.

“Invisible particles from pyrotechnic articles can have both acute and chronic effects detrimental to human health and contrary to some opinions they are not harmless.

“One pyrotechnic was thrown from the upper section of the East Stand on Saturday over the heads of hundreds of fans, just reaching the pitch. There should be no debate that this behaviour is extremely dangerous.

“Supporters are also reminded of their responsibilities in not entering the field of play before, during or after the match.”