Soccer teams Arsenal, Hotspurs ban selfie sticks

LONDON, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- London soccer teams Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal said fans are being banned from bringing picture-taking "selfie sticks" into their stadiums.

An Arsenal spokesman confirmed the selfie sticks -- camera or cellphone holders designed to allow users to get a wider frame while taking photos of themselves -- have been added to Emirates Stadium's list of items banned because they can be used as weapons. "We can confirm that 'selfie sticks' are banned on match days at Emirates Stadium," the spokesman said. "The club's ground regulations prohibit any object that could be used as a weapon or could compromise public safety."

Meanwhile, Twitter user @LiamCSWY posted a copy of an email he received from Tottenham Hotspur "customer care" official "Jake" saying the selfie sticks, which fans were already prohibited from using during game play to avoid blocking views, were being banned from White Hart Lane stadium.

Victory! pic.twitter.com/6qXPr1WGMe

— Liam (@LiamCSWY) January 7, 2015

"Upon review, 'selfie sticks' have now been banned from entering White Hart Lane. All stewards will be briefed prior to the next home fixture," the email read. "Your comments have been noted and are appreciated and we thank you for taking the time to write to us with your view."