Darlington chairman George Reynolds has banned unaccompanied youngsters from supporting their team from the home end.

Mr Reynolds was the target of protests from fans during Saturday's defeat by Chesterfield. He left the game in the second-half, fearing for his family's safety.

After the game, about 50 fans stayed at the home end, known as the Tin Shed, to demonstrate against Mr Reynolds and manager Gary Bennett. The protest ended peacefully after 20 minutes.

Now under-18s are to be banned from watching from the Tin Shed unless accompanied by an adult, as of February 6. Season ticket holders will be exempt.

Darlington's director of football, Luke Raine, said: "The club wants to clear out the hooligans from the Tin Shed and instead create a family-type atmosphere."

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