CHESTER FC have responded to an alleged incident of crowd trouble in which a player's partner was punched following the Boxing Day defeat at Southport.

Blues defender Steve Howson took to Twitter after the 3-0 loss where he wrote: "someone punched my mrs in the arm...disgrace...bad result and performance, but someone hitting players (sic) mrs for clapping is a Disgrace (sic) absolute disgrace, disgusting! Anyone know who it is let me know please."

The match also saw a Chester supporter invade the pitch in the second half and follows a number of incidents at the recent Stockport County away match which led to a group of around 80 fans being sent home after they were issued with a Section 35 dispersal notice by police officers.

A number of Chester fans were left angry by the conduct of Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and wrote to local politicians and the Football Supporters Federation (FSF) over how the situation was handled with Chester FC also confirming they were demanding answers from the Force.

A statement from the Chester FC Board of Directors, said: "Without doubt, 2018 has shown the positive impact that our supporters can have.

"We are proud to have had fantastic travelling support both in the National League last season when things on and off the pitch were not going to plan and also within the National League North this campaign.

"Whilst everyone connected was disappointed with yesterday’s result away at Southport, a very small minority of the travelling supporters let both themselves and Chester Football Club down with their behaviour - in particular during the second half.

"Entering the field of play during the game at any time is unacceptable behaviour and may see the Club charged and even fined by the Football Association. Such behaviour not only has consequences for Chester FC, but also the individual through potential banning orders enforced through the courts. As such, we remind supporters to stay off the field of play at all times."

Addressing the alleged incident after the game, the statement continued: "Chester Football Club are also aware of a number of issues raised through social media regarding the behaviour of some of our supporters towards fellow fans and the families of the players and management team.

"Chester Football Club condemns and will not tolerate such behaviour. Anyone who is identified to have acted in a way that would be considered hostile, threatening or violent will be dealt with as appropriate to their actions. Nevertheless, these messages should not distract from the superb away support that was received yesterday. The vast majority have been, and will remain a credit to this Community Club.

"We would also like to update supporters that feedback from Chester FC fans relating to the Stockport County game earlier this month have been progressed to the authorities. We seek assurances that our fans travelling to away games in the Greater Manchester area will be treated fairly in future."

Chester travel to Hereford on December 29 before meeting Southport again on New Year's Day at the Swansway Stadium.