The scheme is an alternative to 'speaking out' about hooligans

Supporters can now text a dedicated number with information on troublemakers or other incidents.

Staffordshire Police say the number of policed matches at the club's Vale Park stadium has dropped from 17 last season to just six so far this year.

They say disorder has been reduced since the True Supporters Code of Conduct was launched last year.

But Chief Inspector Pete Owen, responsible for operations in Stoke-on-Trent, said a minority of fans were still intent on causing trouble.

"This new measure has been driven by the true supporters who are sick of this hooligan group spoiling the club's reputation and standing," he said.

"We will review the success of the scheme, but this allows people to discreetly send a text message about something at the match without drawing attention to them.

"The messages will be received by the police through the match or even between games if fans want to let the police have information about this unacceptable behaviour."

Ash Connor of The Football Supporters' Federation said: "Millions of text messages are sent everyday about football, and we want just a few messages to help us make a visit to Vale Park a safe and enjoyable experience, and of cause seeing the club beat the opposition on the pitch helps as well."