A group of diehard Foxes fans fear they could be permanently banned from the club after claiming they were turned away from Saturday's game.

Members of the Fosse Boys – about 50 supporters who are trying to crank up the atmosphere at the Walkers Stadium – say they were threatened with permanent bans and arrest at the game against Reading if they entered as a group.

It follows about 22 letters sent to the club from fellow fans complaining about noise made by the Fosse Boys at the first home game of the season against Middlesborough.

Many members of the group, who usually sing, chant, stand and wave flags from a section of the Kop (SK1), said they were refused entry on Saturday.

Dominic Manning of the Fosse Boys said: "We were told by stewards that as a group we are no longer welcome in the grounds.

"Apparently we are allowed in as individuals but if we try to come in as the Fosse Boys we could be totally banned or even arrested.

"It seems that the powers that be see us as a threat but I don't believe that we hinder the enjoyment of the match for anyone."

According to the Fosse Boys, about 20 members were refused entry, despite being allowed to buy tickets.

A Fosse Boys member, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of losing his season ticket, said: "A few of the group were allowed through but most were held outside and refused entry.

"If we have been banned for good as a group then Leicester City, the club, that my family has supported for many generations and that I have spent untold amounts of my time and money on following, will be able to count my support no longer."

Female member Deb Breward, 46, said: "We were made to sit down for the whole game when people sat right in front of us were allowed to stand unchallenged.

"We are a good-natured group of supporters who just want to cheer on our team – I'm nearly in my 50s for goodness' sake – I'm not there to cause trouble.

"Lots of my friends were denied entry. The club took their money off them, let them buy tickets and beer, but then turned them away at the gates just because they were wearing Fosse Boys scarves. What a joke."

Fosse Boys members who managed to get into the ground smuggled in a banner which read "Supporters Not Customers", which they unfurled at the end of the match.

Bystanders said they were consequently threatened by stewards with a citizens' arrest.

Amanda Jacks from the Football Supporters' Federation commended the supporters' efforts.

She said: "The Fosse Boys will continue to have our full support and we are very concerned at how Leicester City appear to be treating them.

"It's clear that they wanted to work with the club to bring atmosphere, colour and passion to the Walkers – not something that troublemakers or hooligans would do."

Leicester City did not respond to requests for a statement yesterday.

Previously a spokesman said: "We are pleased supporters want to improve the atmosphere within the stadium, but all supporters must adhere to the safety regulations in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment."

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