Councillor Tony Pearson 'could have done better', says Crystal Palace, but can stay on as a steward

CRYSTAL Palace Football Club have concluded a New Addington councillor "could have handled the situation better" amid claims of a spat with supporters.

Selhurst Park steward Tony Pearson had been accused of swearing at supporters and ripping down their banner in a pitchside rage last month.

He strongly denied any wrongdoing and has kept his position at the club – continuing his duties at the Carling Cup Semi-Final against Cardiff on Tuesday night.

But he has been moved to another part of the ground to avoid any other potential confrontation.

In a written statement, a spokesman for Crystal Palace Football Club said: "Following a meeting between club steward Tony Pearson and the safety/stadium manager, the club can confirm that the incident at the Birmingham game on December 19, 2011, has been investigated.

"Whilst it was agreed that Mr Pearson could have handled the situation better, there was no grounds for Mr Pearson to lose his position with the club.

"Mr Pearson will now resume his duties but in the best interest of all parties this will now be in a different part of the stadium to avoid any other potential confrontation.

"The club prides itself on the quality of stewarding at Selhurst Park Stadium and can assure all fans that their safety is the number one priority when attending games.

"Complaints from supporters regarding all aspects of the match-day experience will continue to be taken seriously as the club strives to improve all aspects of customer care and crowd management whilst providing a safe, friendly, family environment."

Palace fan and Tory councillor Mr Pearson has been a steward for 20 years.

The alleged incident happened at the Holmesdale Road end after the Eagles scored a late winner.

A banner was unveiled in support of chairman Steve Parish.

Mr Pearson was accused of swearing in the fans' faces before grabbing and ripping the banner.

But speaking to the Advertiser last month, he explained supporters had been pre-warned about displaying that banner and he categorically denied swearing.

Some fans though were calling for his sacking on a Crystal Palace internet forum.

One supporter wrote this week: "No Pearson, no problems in Block B whatsoever."

Another supporter added: "Pretty simple really. Let Palace fans support their team > No problems. Stop Palace fans supporting their team > Problems."

On Wednesday, Mr Pearson told the Advertiser that, speaking as a councillor, he had no comment to make and, speaking as a steward, we should refer to the club.