North Wales Police have explained what a football banning order is, following an increase of incidents at Wrexham games this season.

Fan-related disorder at football games is currently increasing in the UK.

Following the lifting of last season’s lockdown-enforced restrictions, supporters have returned to capacity stadiums once again.

Collated data from the top five English leagues reveals that arrests at football matches are currently at their highest level for years.

READ MORE: Wrexham AFC: Banning orders issued after 'unacceptable behaviour' in the stands during Torquay game

There were 800 football-related arrests in the first six months of the season, with more than 750 reported incidents of disorder.

This season alone, seven FBOs have been issued to Wrexham fans following incidents of disorder at home and away games.

READ MORE: Wrexham AFC: Five receive banning orders following disorder

Four further cases involving Wrexham supporters are currently pending.

Recorded offences have included drunk and disorderly behaviour, assault, and the throwing of missiles.

Supporters may often read about Football Banning Orders being issued to those found guilty of football-related disorder.

But what is actually meant by an FBO, and what are the consequences of being issued with one?

Put simply, a FBO is a civil order which can be made by a court to help prevent violence or disorder at, or in connection with, regulated football matches.

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The orders, which can last between three and 10 years, will include one or more conditions which you must obey.

These can include:

  • A ban from attending any UK football match for the duration of the order
  • Being prohibited from being within specific football grounds on matchdays
  • Being asked to surrender your passport ahead of specified overseas matches and tournaments involving national sides.
  • Breaching a Football Banning Order is a criminal offence, punishable by up to six months in prison.

READ MORE: Wrexham man handed six-year Football Banning Order

Supt. Simon Barrasford said: “Proportionately, the number of banning orders issued to Wrexham supporters this season has been very low.

“We acknowledge that as a club Wrexham has a large and loyal fanbase, who attend fixtures up and down the country every week.

“Standards of behaviour among supporters are generally very good. However, where there has been disorder at games we have proactively sought to take punitive action against the individuals involved.

READ MORE: Wrexham AFC fan receives a second football banning order

“Where appropriate, criminal proceedings have been pursued as well as banning orders, which are focused on limiting future disorder.

“We hope that FBOs will continue to act as a strong deterrent in that respect. They are strongly prohibitive and ensure that those found guilty of football disorder are kept distanced from the game.”