Oxford United are handing out leaflets at tomorrow's home game against Tranmere in a bid to get fans to cut out abusive chants.

The move has the support of both fanzines, Rage On and Yellow Fever, and the Supporters Club. It is an issue which has been frequently raised at club open meetings.

Entitled the "Cut It Out Campaign", the initiative has the backing of manager Malcolm Shotton.

In an appeal to fans in the London Road, Shotton says: "Your support is tremendous and really appreciated by the lads and myself. However, the chanting from some of you is causing the club a lot of problems and driving away potential supporters.

"I know only too well that football is a game that plays on the emotions and it can, at times, be very difficult to control ourselves. In the heat of the moment we all end up saying things we would not normally come out with - I am no exception!

"But I would like you to make a special effort to cut out the following chants: 'It's nice to know you're here . . .', plus the one at goal kicks." Shotton says: "It is not big, it is not clever and it puts off new supporters from becoming regulars at our matches. It is a small minority who are involved, but it has an effect on everyone in the ground.

"Please help us to make it clear to those involved that you are no longer prepared to tolerate this behaviour.

"These chants have ceased at other clubs, and must also discontinue here at the Manor Ground."

Chanting in an abusive manner is a criminal act and the police have already warned individuals as to their future behaviour.

Supporters found continuing these chants are liable to be banned from future Oxford United matches, and may also be arrested and charged.

Oxford United club manager Ian Davies said: "Everybody swears at the referee under their breath or at certain incidents during a game and we're not trying to stop that, but we know this type of abusive chanting in unison does upset people who come with families and some of them don't want to come back again.

"We hope this move will further enhance the family atmosphere at the Manor."

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