Everton and Liverpool hit out at far-right BNP

Apr 19 2008

EVERTON and Liverpool have united to condemn Merseyside BNP for using their grounds on the front page of its website.

The local site of the far right party has used the clubs’ stadiums as part of six images summing up Liverpool in the run up to the local elections on May 1.

But having been firm supporters of FA anti-racism initiatives both clubs moved quickly to distance themselves from the website and the BNP.

In a strongly-worded statement, Ian Ross, spokesman for Everton Football Club, said: “We utterly disassociate ourselves from a party like the BNP

“They haven’t sought our permission to use the image of Goodison because they know it would be denied straight away.

“We will now be demanding that they remove the image from their website.

“If they are attempting to draw a link between this football club and its supporters then they are a disgrace and should be condemned for even attempting it.”

A Liverpool FC spokesman said: “Liverpool Football Club should not be used to promote a political party full stop.

“We condemn the use of any images relating to Liverpool FC on the Merseyside BNP's website and in no way do we share their views.”

Steve Greenhalgh, regional organiser for the BNP, said: “We thought the image of two great football clubs summed up the image of Merseyside, no more, no less.

“Some of our leaflets contain pictures of churches and cathedrals and the public have not had any complaints.

“People recognise Liverpool and Everton but we don’t want it to cause any controversy.

“If there is an issue we will look at it and re-evaluate it.”