A FOOTBALL fan has been fined after hurling racial abuse at former Newport County striker Aaron O’Connor.

John Hughes, 61, swore at O'Connor after Newport County beat Accrington Stanley FC 2-0 during an away game at the Store First Stadium.

O’Connor was released by Newport County after his contract expired last month.

Hughes pleaded guilty to one count of using racially aggravated threatening words or behaviour on March 27.

The incident soured the Accrington Stanley’s fan relationship with his family and the club, Blackburn Magistrates’ Court heard.

He was fined £200, ordered to pay £100 compensation to the player, £85 costs and a £20 surcharge on June 11.

Hughes, of Stone Hey, Huncoat, accepted he had used “wholly inappropriate language” around 15 minutes after the game, as Newport players were warming down, the court heard.

Phil Hall, prosecuting, said the player was involved in “banter” with some youngsters who were saying he was “rubbish” and that Newport did not deserve to win the game.

O’Connor suggested it was “past their bedtime” but Hughes swore at him.

Gareth Price, defending, said Hughes went to Stanley games because of his son, who suffers from cerebral palsy and is an ardent supporter.

Mr Price said: "Newport had won 2-0 but there were some controversial refereeing decisions and the Accrington fans thought a goal scored by the visitors had been put in by a hand.

"The teenagers who were stood near my client shouted something at the player and he shouted something back. As soon as my client made his unfortunate comment he offered an apology to Mr O'Connor.

"My client is not that interested, but his son is a very keen supporter and he is happy to encourage and support that. There has been a very positive relationship with the club and it would be a shame if that is jeopardised by this unfortunate incident."

Newport County was unavailable for comment but an Accrington Stanley spokesman said: “The club condemns any form of racism or racist behaviour.

“We work constantly as a club to eradicate behaviour of this kind and encourage a family-friendly atmosphere.”