Fan Flares Up: Man Caught Firing Flares at Brighton vs Man United Game
Adam Chisnell sparked trouble at the Brighton vs Manchester United clash on May 5. CCTV caught the 38-year-old flare in hand in the away fans’ section. Things escalated when he stormed the pitch at full time, lit another flare, and hurled it onto the field.
Warrington Man Fined and Banned After Flare Frenzy
Chisnell, from Canada Close, Warrington, was arrested and charged with possessing fireworks at a football event and throwing a missile onto the pitch. Brighton Magistrates’ Court found him guilty on September 7 and hit him with a £184.50 fine, £85 costs, and a £34 surcharge.
He also received a three-year Football Banning Order, barring him from attending or being near any football matches.
Appeal Rejected, Ban Extended to 2027
The troublemaker tried to fight his conviction, but Lewes Crown Court dismissed his appeal on October 24. Chisnell’s ban was slapped with an extra two years, extending it until 2027, plus another £60 fine.
“This was not just a moment of madness,” said Sussex Police’s Dedicated Football Officer PC Darren Balkham.
“There were two incidents of not only having the devices in the stadium but lighting them. Fans nearby had to move away because of the smoke, and the second flare was thrown onto the pitch.”
“For Chisnell, this has proved a costly venture, and he now has no prospect of watching football until 2027. We back the Premier League’s tough stance and will prosecute when evidence supports it.”
