BANNING orders have been handed to Colchester United fans who invaded the pitch and scuffled with stewards.

About 12 supporter went on to the pitch during the U’s dramatic 3-2 away win against Fleetwood Town at the Highbury Stadium in April.

Footage has been viewed by police, the Football League and the club and a number of one-year bans have been imposed.

Letters from Colchester United’s safety officer, Gary Tuckwell, were sent to the fans ahead of the new season, which starts on August 8.

The U’s would not disclose the names of those subject to the orders, or how many have been banned.

Tim Waddington, general manager, said: “We take this kind of incident seriously and had no problems like this for a number of years.

“Our safety officer, stewards and supporter liaison officer work closely with fan groups to stamp out unacceptable behaviour.

“We are a small club and are building our fan base as a family club, indeed, we recently won the Football League Family Club of the Year.

“The incident was reviewed and, based on evidence and witness statements, the club has identified and taken action against a number of individuals.

“Colchester United fans have an excellent reputation and these individuals were certainly not representative of the club or its supporters.”

The letters state: “I am writing with regards to an incident at the match in Fleetwood.

“CCTV footage was reviewed and you were seen in activities on the pitch.

“These activities breached Football League Ground Regulations 9 and 11.3 for threatening behaviour and entry onto the playing area without lawful authority or excuse.

“We have therefore banned you from attending Colchester United matches for one year from the date of this letter.”