A RACE row has erupted in Mid Wales football following the resignation of Knighton Town Reserves' player-manager.

Llandrindod Wells Reserves walked off the pitch during a pre-season friendly against Knighton Reserves at Lant Avenue on Saturday, July 10.

The Spamen were leading 3-2 at the 60-minute mark when the incident is said to have taken place. It involved Knighton player-manager Justin Davies and Llandrindod right-back Nathan Millington, who is of mixed-race background.

The 20-year-old left the field of play, followed by his team-mates and coaching staff, with the alleged incident reported to the referee. The match was then abandoned.

The teams were due to play again next week but that match has now been cancelled, with Llan'dod lining up against Rhayader Reserves instead.

Davies resigned as reserve team manager later that day – but is said to deny having made a racist comment. The County Times has attempted to contact him for comment.

Knighton Town released a statement on their Facebook page shortly after the game confirming Davies had left his position, and apologising to Llandrindod Football Club.

“Knighton Town Football Club would like to place on record that we do not condone any form of racism or discrimination whatsoever and pride ourselves on doing the right thing as a club,” said chairman Gary Cooper.

“We have held a meeting with Justin and his team, where Justin came to a decision to resign from his role as player manager. The club committee agreed that it would be best for both parties.

“We would like to put on record our wholehearted apologies to Llandrindod Wells Football Club and the FAW for any ill feeling and offence caused.

“Hopefully, we can move forward and play football in a good, friendly manner.”

Nathan posted a message on his Facebook page on Saturday evening outlining events and thanking his team-mates for their support.

The Llandrindod player's post attracted more than 200 reactions and over 60 comments, including messages of support from Knighton players.

Nathan’s mother Sarah Millington, a former Llandrindod county councillor, said: “I am proud of my son's response and am grateful for the support his team manager and fellow players gave him.”