PARENTS of young Malvern footballers have been accused of encouraging violence between players and spoiling the junior game for others.

The chairman of the Mercian League, George Silverman, has written to clubs telling officials and parents to "grow up" and let everyone enjoy the game.

He said he decided to take action after receiving letters and phone calls about "petty incidents" and allegations of overly physical involvement.

The list of alleged incidents includes parents running on the pitch, swearing at players and encouraging violence against the opposition.

"The spectators will shout things like 'hit him, tackle him' and so on," he said. "They are giving them the wrong type of encouragement."

Mr Silverman added junior referees, often as young as 14, were abused from the touchline, which was counter-productive to the development of the youngsters' skills.

In his letter, he asked clubs to remember the reason junior football existed.

"Our main purpose is to develop the skills of all young people wanting to play football. They must be encouraged to enjoy themselves and play in a competitive but fair manner in accordance with the laws of the game."

However, he said it was a small minority causing problems.

"I reckon some of them don't even realise they're doing it," he said.

"It's against the spirit of what the league stands for. The young players themselves are embarrassed by their parents' antics."

Mr Silverman asked clubs and parents to remember the league's motto: 'Keep the fun in football'.

But Dave Harford, manager of Malvern United, said he did not think there was a problem.

"Most of the parents are supporting their lads and some do get a little excited," he said.

"I think he's a little bit harsh on the member clubs. Certainly there's a bit of pettiness creeps in now and again and with regard to people running the line, it can be a problem.

"I think some of the issues he raised were a little over the top. Most of the supporters are pretty good natured."

Les Jones, of Malvern Town Wanderers, said he had not seen much trouble on the touchline.

"It's not a problem with our fans, but on some occasions you do get some overzealous spirits from the other sides," he said.