Trent Bridge cricket fan faces brass ban

Cricketing authorities have banned a fan from attending the opening Ashes Test at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, this week – if he brings his trumpet.

Billy Cooper, who has followed the England side all over the world with the famed Barmy Army since 2004, regularly entertains fellow fans with tunes such as "Land of Hope and Glory", "Jerusalem" and the Hawaii Five-0 theme, at matches. Mr Cooper contacted Trent Bridge, the Oval, Old Trafford and Durham to request an exemption from their no-instruments policy. The latter three grounds pledged their support – but Trent Bridge refuses to budge.

Since news of his ban broke, Mr Cooper has had support from players Kevin Pietersen and Michael Vaughan, as well as broadcaster Piers Morgan. Pietersen tweeted that the decision was a "DISGRACE".

Cooper was ejected from the Brisbane Test in 2006 but that decision was roundly criticised. Cricket Australia later provided him with exclusive access to all grounds in 2010-11.

Trent Bridge confirmed that there will be no relaxation of its usual policy.