Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out has advised Hartlepool United fans to avoid 'blacking up' in their Bob Marley dress-up next week.

The supporters of the League Two outfit traditionally wear fancy dress to their final away game of the season, which will be against Carlisle United on May 2.

However, Kick It Out has released a statement claiming it has "provided guidance to both clubs" to refuse entry to any fans who have "blacked up" as the reggae singer as they have received complaints that the outfit could be deemed offensive.

John Pearson, who organised the fancy dress, told BBC Sport: "It's a bit offensive to suggest we were going to 'black up', I'm not sure why anyone would even do that. I think someone has contacted Kick it Out and the whole thing has got a bit out of control."

Hartlepool fans have previously dressed up as the Smurfs, penguins and Thunderbirds characters.