Spurs seek to eradicate anti-gay chanting

Tottenham Hotspur have launched a campaign to stamp out homophobic chanting at White Hart Lane.

Encouraged by campaigns undertaken by the game's governing bodies, clubs across the country have in recent times looked to eradicate racist abuse from the terraces, and now Spurs have also targeted anti-gay taunts.

A club spokesman, Peter Secchi, said: "We are fully aware of the spate of homophobic songs and chants that have been creeping into the game. We will print a warning in our match programme to remind fans that kind of abuse will not be tolerated.

"It's something we have spoken to the Premier League about and we hope this lead is followed by other clubs."

Tottenham yesterday received the backing of the sports minister, Richard Caborn. "I compliment Spurs on taking such a positive step," he said. "It sends a significant message to fans that abusive chants on race, colour, creed or sexuality will not be tolerated. My message to the fans is: be supportive, not abusive."