ONE of the supporters who invaded the pitch on Saturday has explained why he did it.

Nicholas Parton, a Wanderers fan for 30 years, said he felt he had no other option to protest against the way the club is being run.

The 37-year-old from Westhoughton who faces a ban from attending games, ran on to the pitch during the defeat to Derby County on Saturday and contacted The Bolton News yesterday to give his reasons.

He apologised to any fans who may have been upset by his actions and urged others not to copy what he did.

“I did it due to the fact how the club’s been run over the last four or five years,” he said.

“I go home and away and the club’s a big part of my life.

“Try taking banners and they are taken down before kick-off. It’s frustrating.

“You are not allowed to put your side.

“I understand we are not a Premier League club, but if we go down again that could be it.

“A few years ago the atmosphere was electric at the Reebok, now it’s like a morgue.

“The feeling around the club is the worst it’s ever been. There’s no singing, there’s nothing for people to get excited about.

“I don’t want him (Dougie Freedman) sacked because we are in debt, but I can’t see how it is going to change.

“I am not saying I am clever in what I did. I’ll find out on Wednesday if the police are going to take any action.

“I don’t want kids doing what I did. I’ve got two young kids myself and if I upset any other fans then I’m sorry because that’s the last thing I want.”