Pompey marked Football v Homophobia (FvH) month with a tour of Fratton Park for the club’s LGBT supporters’ group.
Twelve members of Fratton Fever – the group set up three years ago to give the LGBT fan-base a representative voice – were given a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium by head of inclusion Colin Farmery.
He said: “It was the FvH month in 2014 which saw Fratton Fever created and the group has gone from strength to strength, which I am delighted to see. Portsmouth FC are working hard to ensure we are open to everyone in our community.
“We have already backed LGBT issues this season with the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign at the Plymouth game, so for our annual backing of FvH we wanted to do something specifically for the fans.”
"Portsmouth FC are working hard to ensure we are open to everyone in our community."
As well as the stadium tour, the group also enjoyed a question and answer session with Clark Denford, assistant to kit manager Kev McCormack, who is an openly gay man.
Clark said: “Since I came out a few years ago I can honestly say my sexuality has never been an issue. I was really pleased to be able to support the FvH month in this way.”
Fratton Fever is organised by Linda Webb-Bowman, a Pompey fan for almost 50 years. She added: “The support the club have given us has been fantastic. As well as social get-togethers, we have worked with the club to encourage LGBT people to come along to games and support their local team.”
Pompey Ladies also marked FvH month by wearing t-shirts in the warm-up for their recent Hampshire Cup semi-final against Southampton Saints, while the reserve side wore them for a clash with Lewes.
Click here to find out more information about Fratton Fever on their Facebook page.
Football v Homophobia exists to challenge discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression at all levels in football. Click here for more information.