Rival football fans who poke fun at Premiership club Middlesbrough by wearing gas masks to matches have been banned because of current fears over chemical attacks, a spokesman said today.
Some supporters, particularly from Sunderland and Newcastle United, have worn white chemical suits and dust masks over their faces in reference to Teesside's huge petro-chemical industry.
Middlesbrough fans have been labelled "Smoggies" by their North-east rivals.
But the club, who face Newcastle United tonight, have banned masks and chemical suits.
Middlesbrough spokesman Dave Allen said today: "These suits can incite crowd trouble.
"Given the world situation we feel they are particularly inappropriate."
Cleveland Police supported the ban, although it said wearing a suit or mask was not an arrestable offence.
A police spokesman said today: "Some fans have been known to attend Middlesbrough Football Club wearing white chemical suits and smog masks.
"It is felt to be both insensitive and intimidating to wear such outfits, particularly in the current international situation.
"The club has decided it will not let such people into the ground and we agree with them, but it is a matter for the club and its conditions for entry."
Mark Jensen, editor of Newcastle United fanzine the Mag, today accused Middlesbrough officials of lacking a sense of humour.
He added: "We sing 'What's it like to see the sun?' to them.
"I think all this must touch a bit of a raw nerve."
Sunderland fanzine editor Peter Daykin said donning the chemical gear was just part of the banter between rival fans.
The Sex and Chocolate editor said today: "It is certainly not insensitive - this has nothing to do with terrorism.
"But I can imagine it is insulting, that is the reason it is done!"
