England musicians banned in Donetsk

12 June 2012 19:16

For the first time in 18 years there was no band playing at an England international, the Euro 2012 Group D match against France.

The England band, which has played at over 300 consecutive Three Lions games over an 18-year span, was not allowed to play in the match against France.

Band leader John Hemmingham said an agreement was in place between the English Football Association and UEFA to allow the musicians access to matches.

However, they were stopped from entering the Donbass Arena with their instruments by Ukrainian officials.

They were given permission to watch the match but only after they handed their instruments to security.

Hemmingham now says he will be making an official request to UEFA to help the band make a return for the Sweden game on Friday.