A MIDDLEWICH Euro MP is tackling racism in football and has attended a special one day conference at Manchester United Football Club to mark his support of the campaign.

Michael Tappin has vowed to throw his weight behind the major fight aimed at kicking racism out of the sport.

The conference, 'Tackling Racism in Football Across Europe,' was organised by the Professional Footballers' Association and Manchester United Football Club with keynote speaker MP Tony Banks, Minister for Sport present.

Mr Tappin explained: "The need to find a way forward on the serious problem of racism in football across Europe is made urgent by the World Cup taking place in France this summer.

"This conference brought together politicians, players, organisations, coaches, football clubs, fans and anti-racist organisations.

"I enjoyed taking part in discussions in an effort to find ways to tackle the problem of racism in the game right across Europe."

As part of the same campaign, this month the football associations of Europe will unite at the European Parliament for a 24-hour action against racism in football.

Top names in football, teachers and leading European politicians will be taking part.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair has given his support to the event and the Government is expected to send a Minister.

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