Crystal Palace fans have been told to keep their bums on seats after a number of them have been destroyed in recent games.

About 40 seats have been broken during games against Brighton and Blackpool, with the cause put down to over exuberant celebrations of a small percentage of supporters after the Eagles have scored.

Some fans have also complained about supporters standing during games which blocks their view and also leads to overcrowding in some areas.

Co-chairman Stephen Browett has told supporters that the club will have to regretfully ban those who are caught purposefully breaking seats.

He added that stewards will have a zero tolerance policy towards those standing on them.

Mr Browett, in an open message to fans on various internet forums, said: "Blocking aisles and gangways is a serious problem.

"These must be kept clear at all times for obvious safety reasons. In the event of an emergency it is essential that access is not obstructed.

"Clearly we must have one person per seat to avoid over-crowding.

"We have a brilliant atmosphere at Palace, very tolerant stewarding and 17 matches a season police-free. Hopefully a few people won’t jeopardise this."