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14 hours ago
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The Ipswich Town chair and chief executive, Mark Ashton, has apologised for “any hurt, pain or distress” caused by Nigel Farage’s visit to Portman Road this week.
Farage visited the club on Monday, and footage of his trip – including images of the Reform UK leader holding up an Ipswich No 10 shirt with his name on the back – was used by the political party on social media.
The club said on Tuesday that it remained “apolitical” after Ipswich fans showed their displeasure on social media. Supporters described the visit as “shameful” and “embarrassing”.
On Friday Ashton said in a statement: “I’m fully aware that this has been a very difficult week for all of us. The staff are hurting. Elements of the fanbase are hurting. So are elements of our local community. That upsets me immensely. Unreservedly, I want to apologise and say I’m sorry.
“I understand that supporters and element of the community are angry. I also understand that there are a number of mistruths out there about what’s actually happened this week. And I also understand that we have lessons to learn. Because mistakes have been made which have caused harm and distress to parts of our local community.
“And as the chairman of the club I take full responsibility for those mistakes. And full responsibility for making sure that those lessons are learned and learned quickly.”
Ashton added that the club would reconsider its approach. “The full board of directors are now reviewing the policy regards how we engage with local politicians and political parties,” he said. “We’ll decide how, if and when we do that moving forward. Because, again, lessons have to be learned.”
Ipswich are fighting for a return to the Premier League, having been relegated last season, and are third in the Championship table with eight games remaining, with the Farage furore causing an unwanted distraction in the promotion race.
“I unreservedly apologise for any hurt, pain or distress that’s been caused,” said Ashton. “We are better when we move together as one and there is lots to fight for on and off the pitch.
“We do try to listen to supporters and we do take on board their feelings and their thoughts on a wide range of things. The biggest thing for me this week has been the hurt and frustration fans have had, and, I repeat, I unreservedly apologies for that hurt and pain. I’m genuinely sorry.”
