FOOTBALL fans in West Yorkshire are being given the chance to provide their thoughts and feedback on the policing of football matches in the county as part of a new independent advisory group (IAG).

The first meeting of the West Yorkshire Police Football Supporters IAG took place last night with representatives from Bradford City, Huddersfield Town and Leeds United all in attendance.

Chief Superintendent Owen West, Operational Support Commander of West Yorkshire Police, said: “While we unfortunately can’t guarantee goals on the day, what we can do is work with football supporters to ensure that both local football fans and those travelling into the county to watch matches are getting the best match day experience in other respects here in West Yorkshire.

“This independent advisory group is all about transparency, legitimacy and partnership with fans and ensuring that we have a relationship going forwards which is built on trust and respect. It builds on the work of #EnableUK, a multi-force collaboration on football policing.”

Amanda Jacks from the Football Supporters Federation said: “I am delighted that West Yorkshire Police are joining the ever growing list of police forces who are instigating Football Policing Independent Advisory Groups.

“Not only will the IAGs provide a real opportunity for supporter representatives to act as critical friends to West Yorkshire Police, the meetings provide a forum where supporter representatives can speak openly and frankly about football policing in West Yorkshire. 

“Given that West Yorkshire Police is one of the most innovative forces in the country with a genuine desire to improve match day policing, I am sure that the IAG will form an integral part of this ongoing process."