Racist language was used and threats were made to a steward at a Watford FC match earlier this year.

The threats were reportedly made towards the staff member during a Watford v Tottenham Hotspur Premier League match on January 18. The steward was helping people get into Vicarage Road Stadium at the time.

A 43-year-old man from Watford will appear in court to answer a charge of a racially aggravated section 4 public order offence (causing fear or provocation of violence).

Hertfordshire Constabulary have withheld the defendant's name because he has not yet been officially charged. And there is no court date yet.

Sam Gillings, HR and equality lead officer at Watford FC, said: “At Watford Football Club, we are fully committed to tackling all forms of discrimination, whether in our stadium or on social media. Through the help of our supporters and workforce, we have reported a number of incidents to Herts police and feel this particular decision is a positive reflection of the processes we have put in place.

“We will continue to encourage incidents to be reported to us, using #buzzoff online or contacting us directly. We are Watford Football Club, we’re passionate about inclusion and we will take appropriate action.”

Dani Howlett-Bolton, the hate crime officer for Watford, said: “We take all reports of this nature seriously and will not hesitate to bring suspects before the courts.

“We have a close working relationship with Watford Football Club and are fully supportive of the work they are doing to tackle discrimination. If you witness similar incidents, or have been a victim of a hate crime, please do not hesitate to report this to the club, or directly to police.”