Complaint
A reader of this online report complained it was inaccurate, in that there had been no pitch invasion or altercation on the pitch, and that it manifested anti-Yorkshire bias. The ECU considered the complaint in the light of the BBC’s standards of accuracy and impartiality.
Outcome
The ECU agreed that the reference to a pitch “invasion” was not accurate. A child had run onto the pitch and it is alleged a number of stewards were assaulted as they attempted to reunite him with his parents, following which a further incident occurred between a small group of supporters and stewards behind the stand. The complaint was therefore upheld in relation to accuracy. In relation to impartiality, the item fairly and factually reported Barnsley Town’s response to the incidents, and the ECU saw no evidence for the view that it “exacerbates the BBC's clear and demonstrable anti-Yorkshire agenda”. This aspect of the complaint was not upheld.
Partly Upheld
Further action
The finding was reported to the management of BBC Sport and discussed with the journalists responsible. The online article was amended appropriately.