'Godfather' Of Hooligans Banned From Football

A "Godfather" of football hooliganism has been banned from every professional ground for five years.

Police say Gilroy Shaw was their "number one target" who had "become almost a Godfather figure" for those who partake in football-related violence.

The 47-year-old had a history of starting trouble before "slipping away while his minions throw the punches".

Shaw's involvement in football hooliganism dates back 30 years, and in 1988 he received a five-year football ground ban.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers fan has been barred from their stadium since 2010.

His latest national ban followed a civil action by West Midlands Police.

Following the ruling at Birmingham Magistrates Court, Chief Inspector Nick Rowe said: "Shaw is a familiar face at fixtures at home and abroad and tends to be at the centre of disorder, inciting rival fans, threatening violence, and getting involved in mass brawls.

"He has been the number one target for us for some time but in recent years has become almost a Godfather figure, organising and instigating violence and then slipping away while his minions throw the punches, hurl the missiles or damage property.

"However, we were able to show to the court that he's been in and around match-day trouble for many years and is a catalyst for trouble whenever he attends matches.

"We're pleased he's been handed this banning order.

"It sends out a strong message that we won't tolerate hooliganism in any form and that we're coming for ringleaders."

Shaw, of Bilston in the West Midlands, faces jail or a fine if he breaches the football banning order.