A man has been handed a Football Banning Order after throwing his drink at a police officer during the Brighton match against Crystal Palace.

Matthew Forsdyke admitted guilt to assaulting an emergency services worker along with being drunk and causing a disturbance in public.

The event, known as the M23 Derby, took place at The American Express Stadium on Sunday, February 8.

The officer formed part of a public order team responsible for keeping fans of both clubs apart, which is standard practice.

When the officer confronted Forsdyke about his troublesome behaviour, the 59-year-old propelled the contents of his plastic cup in the officer’s direction, followed by the cup itself.

Forsdyke, whose address is Hythe Crescent in Seaford, was arrested and charged with both offences, appearing before Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, April 2.

He received a three-year Football Banning Order with numerous conditions attached. He was also ordered to pay a £120 penalty plus £85 in legal costs and a £48 surcharge for victims.

PC Gregg Marshall, the dedicated football liaison officer for Surrey Police and Sussex Police, explained that officers work to help Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club keep all spectators, staff members and emergency workers safe at games. He added that being assaulted must never be seen as part of the job, and such behaviour will not be accepted under any circumstances.