A LIFELONG Sunderland football fan could face a permanent ban from the club, after he was convicted of racist chanting.

Raymond Holmes, 32, of Parkhurst Road, Sunderland, yesterday pleaded guilty to racial chanting at Sunderland AFC's match against Coventry at the Stadium of Light, on Saturday.

Sunderland Magistrates' Court was told how the incident had involved up to 300 Sunderland fans in the stadium's south stand. Holmes was one of several arrested.

He was banned from all football grounds for three years and fined £200 with £50 costs.

Speaking after the hearing, Holmes said he was not a racist and had got caught up in the moment.

"I have coloured people in my family, so I am not racist," he said. "I just joined in on the spur of the moment and got my justice."

A spokeswoman for Sunderland Football Club said it would have to seriously consider whether to allow Holmes back in the ground after his ban expires.

"Anyone who perpetrates racist chanting is not welcome at the Stadium of Light," she said.

"We have had some communications from some of our supporters since the weekend, applauding the club in taking very strong action and saying that it makes them feel better about their club."

Two youths, aged 15 and 17, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were also arrested at the match. They are due to appear at Sunderland Youth Court today.

A further two men, aged 18 and 23, who were arrested at the match, were bailed pending further inquiries.