Jake Hepple, a Burnley fan, has claimed responsibility for the vile banner streamed by the plane flying over the Etihad prior to Manchester City’s 5-0 win in the Premier League and his girlfriend Megan Rambadt has had her contract with Solace Foot Health and Reflexology terminated over alleged racist posts.
Hepple’s banner attracted widespread condemnation including from the Clarets and skipper Ben Mee. A supporter of the EDL and who posed next to its former leader Tommy Robinson in a social media snap Hepple will face no further action from Lancashire Police after an investigation.
His girlfriend, Megan Rambadt, has been subsequently sacked by her employer Solace Foot Health and Reflexology, who issued a series of statements on Monday night, with their initial statement stating:
“It was brought to our attention that one of our employees has been publically posting and tweeting comments of an abhorrently racist nature.
“It came as quite a shock to us as the lady in question has never shown, insinuated or acted in any way that would suggest she could have such feelings and beliefs…
“We would like to thank the person who brought these comments to our attention and assure you that we will deal with this situation internally.”
They concluded: “Earlier we posted a statement saying we were willing to try and help Megan by paying for Intensive Racial Sensitivity training despite knowing that Solace’s reputation would come into question.
“After several conversations with Megan tonight however we have all decided that what is best for Megan and best for Solace is to end her employment with immediate effect.”
Hepple’s employer, an engineering firm called Paradigm Precision, said:
“We are aware of the incident that took place and are currently investigating the conduct of our employee. Once we have completed our enquiries, we will release a full statement.”
Burnley fan Hepple had travelled to Manchester to live stream the plane flying over the Etihad just prior to the match between City and Burnley.
Blackpool Airport, from where the plane took off, have suspended all banner towing operations pending an investigation.