The owner of a design company whose job advertisement informed Sheffield United fans not to apply, has claimed he was only joking.

Sheffield Wednesday supporter Ian Anderson said the reference should not be taken seriously.

His company, The Designers' Republic, based in Paternoster Row, Sheffield, launched a recruitment drive to find two designers.

The job advert said: "No Blades" - a reference to the nickname of Sheffield United.

'Tongue-in-cheek'

Mr Anderson, who is the company's director, said: "It was done tongue-in-cheek.

"United and Wednesay fans are always winding each other up.

"It was a joke and should not be taken seriously."

Mr Anderson said he would have no problem employing a Sheffield United fan as long as they had the right qualifications and experience.

He added: "This is an internationally-renowned design company. I want the best for the company."

The business, launched 12 years ago, designs record covers and has expanded into graphic design for computer games.

Peter Meldrum, a Sheffield employment lawyer, said he assumed the advert was a joke, but said it did raise some important points.

He said: "A good employer is expected to be reasonable.

"It could be suggested, if this was serious, that they weren't being reasonable.

'Over the top'

"Being a Sheffield United fan is not relevant to the skills needed for the job.

"Employment law has been under a lot of review, but discrimination against Blades or Owls fans has yet to be covered in the legislation."

Pete Whitney, chairman of Sheffield United Supporters' Club, said: "There is always rivalry between United and Wednesday fans.

"But if this isn't a joke, then it is going over the top.

"It wouldn't be fair to discriminate against someone because of the team they support."