Willey apologises for "scum" Twitter comments

By Paul Bolton, County News Correspondent

Northamptonshire all-rounder David Willey has issued an apology after describing Northampton town centre as a “dive” and people who live in the Midlands town as “scum”.

Willey, 22, made the comments in a Twitter conversation with his county team-mate Niall O’Brien but they were picked up by the local newspaper and attracted unfavourable comment.

Willey, the son of former Northamptonshire and England player Peter, was born and raised in Northampton and issued his apology in another Tweet.

“Bit of interest shown in yesterday’s comments while in Northampton. Scum a bit of a harsh word and apologies to those who have taken offence,” Willey wrote.

Northamptonshire have spoken to Willey – as has his father – about his comments but will not be taking disciplinary action against him.

“He has apologised for his comments and we have taken the view that the coverage they have received is more than sufficient punishment,” said Northamptonshire chief executive David Smith.

“Anyone can mistake a mistake and we hope that David will learn from this. If it happens again then we may have to take a different approach. But he’s a very rounded young man who is a pleasure to have around the club. There is no malice in him whatsoever.”


Date: 22/08/2012 12:15:43 by Paul Bolton
In: Today | Northamptonshire |