FANS have hit out at Accrington Stanley bosses after the club banned the use of drums at matches next season.

The club said it made the decision in a bid to "maintain good relations with neighbours" around the Interlink Express Stadium.

But the move has been slammed with one fan claiming: "It's not a library, it's a football ground".

Stanley's support has been boosted by a group of enthusiastic and noisy fans over the last few years as they climbed the ladder into the Football League.

But at a meeting of the new Accrington Stanley Residents' Liaison Committee it was agreed that drums will be banned from the stadium next year.

Club chief executive Rob Heys said: "The club has agreed to prevent drums from being used in the ground.

"While we appreciate that many of our supporters are in favour of the drum to build the atmosphere at games, we have also had a good number of fans who have expressed the view that they would prefer it not to be used.

"This, combined with the feelings of the local residents, led the club to make the decision and we would ask that this is respected in order to maintain good relations with our neighbours."

The news was met with disappointment by Andrew Camm, who along with other fans formed the Stanley Ultras in 2004.

He said: "We've been bringing drums and flags to matches for years and it has really helped improve the atmosphere.

"The players and fans love it and I am really disappointed.

"I don't think we have much hope of changing the decision but we are going to try.

"Drums are used in stadiums all over the country."

Blackburn Rovers were backed by a group of drummers as they secured a UEFA Cup place on Wednesday at home to Chelsea.

And in January, Stanley assistant manager Jimmy Bell described the Ultras' noisy backing as "fantastic".

He said: "The atmosphere they create is brilliant and the Stanley Ultras are there no matter what the result."

Local councillor Malcolm Pritchard said: "I am surprised that Rob agreed to ban drumming but very pleased that he has.

"It is certainly very annoying for the people who live right next to the ground."

The meeting was attended by representatives of the club, police and local council.

Other issues including parking and future ground developments were also discussed.

It is hoped to hold the meetings regularly throughout the summer and next season.

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