Newcastle United fan Shay Asher banned from every football ground in the country for making racist gesture towards Tottenham supporters

Shay Asher, 24, made the gesture in the direction of away supporters during the Magpies’ Premier League fixture with Tottenham at St James’ Park on October 17.

After the incident was witnessed by other spectators, Northumbria Police launched an investigation alongside Newcastle United in a bid to identify the person involved.

Asher admitted a racially aggravated public order offence when he appeared before magistrates in Newcastle in April and was fined.

He returned to the same court yesterday (Tuesday) for a further hearing, where he was handed a football banning order that will run until 2025.

The order forbids Asher from attending any regulated football match in the UK, which includes Premier League, Championship, League One, League Two and National League fixtures, as well as England home internationals.

The banning order also prevents him from travelling abroad to watch international friendlies, qualification matches and tournaments.

Detective Inspector Gillian Beecroft, of Northumbria Police, said: “Hate crime of any kind within our communities will not be tolerated under any circumstances and I welcome the banning order handed down to Asher.

“In the North East, we have some of the most knowledgeable and passionate supporters in the entire country and the overwhelming majority of those who attend matches behave impeccably.

“However, when passions are high as was the case in this particular fixture, a small minority can let themselves down and ruin the spectacle for others. When that happens, it is important we use every tactic at our disposal to bring effective justice against them.

“I would like to thank everybody who assisted throughout this investigation, especially Newcastle United who have worked closely with us to ensure this case was brought to court.

“We are proud of the fantastic relationship we have with football fans across the North East and will continue to work with all our clubs and supporter groups to ensure matches can be enjoyed by everyone.”

Asher, of Gibside View, Winlaton, was fined £200 and ordered to pay £85 costs plus a £34 victim surcharge, after admitting the racially aggravated offence.

His banning order is effective immediately.