Penkridge man charged over homophobic abuse at Wolves v Chelsea game at Molineux

Three people were arrested after the homophobic chants aimed at Chelsea fans during the match at Molineux on Saturday, April 8.

Matthew Bramwell was one of the three people arrested on suspicion of a public order offence causing harassment, alarm or distress.

The 21-year-old of Bridgewater Close, Penkridge, has now been charged with the offence and is now due to appear before Dudley Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: "There is no place for discrimination in football, or society in general, and we will always fully investigate any reports we receive."

At the match on April 8, Wolves made a PA announcement warning fans about their offensive behaviour after a song was heard from some of the home sections during the second half. Those chants continued.

A statement from Wolves the same day read: "We strongly condemn the discriminatory chants aimed towards Chelsea supporters at today’s game.

"In response to the chants, supporters were reminded by a public address system announcement that discriminatory behaviour and chants of this nature are not tolerated at Molineux.

"Homophobia, like all other forms of discrimination, has no place in football or society, and anyone engaging in discriminatory behaviour is committing a criminal offence.

"As a result, we can confirm that three arrests were made by West Midlands Police relating to homophobia, and the discriminatory chants in question.

"Our ethos at Wolves is about being ‘One Pack’ – an attitude we are passionate about and that extends to our relationships across the football community, regardless of rivalries or what happens on the football pitch.

"We thank all supporters and staff who reported incidents, and will continue to campaign for inclusivity and tackle discriminatory abuse, whether inside stadiums or online.

"The club will offer its full support to the police as they carry out their investigation."