Ban for flare yob

A Hamilton man who threw a flare at Scottish Cup fixture has been banned from attending football matches across the UK.

Carlos Rankin (20) had thrown the flare during a match between Stranraer and Celtic on January 10 this year.

Stranraer Sheriff Court had heard that police officers had seen Rankin throwing the flare in the crowded west stand of Stair Park during the fourth round Scottish Cup tie. Further enquiries by police led to Rankin’s identification and arrest some days later.

Rankin was found guilty on a charge of culpable and reckless conduct following a summary trial.

Speaking following sentence, football liaison prosecutor for the west of Scotland Stephen Ferguson said:“setting off flares or any pyrotechnics at a football match is stupid and dangerous and can have devastating consequences.

“Working with police we are determined to identify perpetrators and bring them to justice so we can rid football of reckless, irresponsible and dangerous behaviour of this nature.”

In addition to the eight-month Football Banning Order, Rankin was also ordered to carry out 100 hours’unpaid work. The Football Banning Order means Rankin will be prohibited from attending all regulated football matches throughout the whole of the United Kingdom during the eight-month period.