As a Watford fan of nearly 40 years and season ticket holder I was shocked and saddened to read of reports of homophobic chanting at the club.

What shocked and saddened me even more, however, were the comments left by so-called fans of the club beneath the story in the sports pages of this newspaper.

‘Fragile killjoys sucking the last bits of atmosphere from the game,’ wrote DeletedAgain; ‘Bloody woke,’ said janejohn456; ‘humour isn’t allowed any more in case a snowflake gets hurt feelings’, write Ranger1. Those were in the first three or four comments.

Read more: Watford investigating homophobic chants during Southampton game​

I am very proud of Watford for the efforts made towards inclusivity and in trying to create a space where all fans can feel safe.

If you’ve spent your life as a gay man or woman putting up with the ‘banter’ from workmates commenting on your sexuality, felt threatened by ignorant people or perhaps have not been able to be yourself at work because of discrimination, comments such as those overheard are not light-hearted or funny. They are a reminder of the prejudice faced every day and to hear them on the terraces of your club, from people with whom you should feel a kinship, when you are trying to escape the rigours of day-to-day life by supporting the club you love is totally unacceptable.

Everyone should feel welcome at Watford (or anywhere for that matter, but let’s stay focused!) regardless of sexuality, gender, race or religion. There is no room for prejudice. It’s not banter or humour if you are facing discrimination every day.

I’m no killjoy. I have worked in the comedy industry with some very politically incorrect comedians. I certainly don’t consider myself ‘woke’ or a ’snowflake’. But I’ve advised young comedians, there is never any humour in punching down - attacking people who already may be feeling victimised by society. That’s just bullying.

Insult the ref, swear at the back four, never let Marco Silva be forgiven, but remember what our club is about - inclusivity and tolerance. And if you can’t handle that, go and support someone else.

Jeremy Austin

By email