Hooligan-tagged flag removed from pub
A FLAG promoting Port-smouth's football hooligan past has been taken down.
A St George's flag evoking the city's notorious violent football firm the 657 crew, who were renowned for involvement in violence around the country while following their team, was yesterday flying from The Beresford in Twyford Avenue, Stamshaw, Portsmouth.
It was clearly visible to motorists exiting the Rudmore roundabout and tourists entering the city after arriving at Portsmouth Continental Ferry Port.
But now it has been taken down after pub owners Punch Taverns spoke to the landlord.
Punch Taverns spokeswoman Jo Sandall said: 'We were concerned about it. We didn't want an association with hooliganism or football violence. The area manager spoke to the licensee and requested it be removed.
'We can only advise licensees. Thankfully they've taken heed of our advice.'
Chairman of the licensing committee at Portsmouth City Council Les Stevens said: 'It is a flag and I suppose they are allowed to fly it. It does glorify violence to a degree. It is a bit tasteless. The 657 crew were pretty notorious in their day. Even though some of these people used to work for me and they were good as gold, on football day they became part of the 657 crew.'
Inspector Gary Munt from Fratton police said: 'The 657 crew themselves are all in their 40s and in effect it doesn't really exist anymore. There may be a few younger ones who think they can attach themselves to that but it doesn't exist as a football firm any more.
'Nobody from outside the city would have a clue what it means. Residents probably think it's all a bit old hat now. Football is a different beast now.'
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Weather for Portsmouth
Thursday 24 May 2012
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