IT was sad to see some of the reaction to the news that refugees who have fled Afghanistan were able to attend a Watford FC cup game this week.

While many welcomed the gesture, there was a clear resentment from some that the refugees had been given free tickets in a stadium that wasn’t even half full.

We saw comments that suggested others were more deserving, such as schoolchildren or families who may not be able to afford to go to games.

Read more: Afghan refugees given free tickets for Watford cup match

Watford Observer:

Refugees watching the match in the Elton John Stand

We were even accused by some of “irresponsible reporting” and that we were trying to stoke debate. That never came into our thinking.

Not that it needed to be said but disadvantaged children already, and rightly, do get opportunities to see the Golden Boys in action, with the club also providing lots of other opportunities.

Watford Observer:

Watford in action against Stoke

Watford FC offered its support when it was approached by a housing developer, which has been supporting the refugees, to see if it could do anything for the refugees stuck in local hotels.

The club went above and beyond, also giving away shirts and scarves and providing food vouchers.

It was a shame to see a positive, community-spirited story, tainted.