An Ipswich football fan has been given a conditional discharge after admitting threatening behaviour at the Championship play-off semi-final with Norwich.

Although he pleaded guilty, Curtis Hurd told South East Suffolk Magistrates Court that he was provoked by racial taunts being aimed at him during the 1-1 draw.

The 55-year-old, who lives in the Ipswich area, said: 'I was getting dog's abuse'.

Hurd was arrested inside Portman Road during the first leg of the semi-final on May 9.

Prosecutor Colette Harper said the incident occurred at around 12.55pm.

Hurd was seen to shout and swear. He also drew his finger across his throat in 'a suggestive throat-cutting motion'.

Hurd – whose last football-related conviction was in 1997 - was also said to have sworn twice at a police officer.

Representing himself Hurd told the court he had not drawn his finger across his throat.

However, he said after being subjected to racist taunts he had told the perpetrator: 'You want to be careful who you say that to otherwise you will get your throat cut.'

Although he was given a conditional discharge Hurd must still pay a £150 criminal courts charge, £35 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.