Watford Football Club fans have set up a group to help tackle antisemitism and bring together Jewish followers of the team.

It is believed to be the first Jewish Premier League supporters’ group in the country and promises to provide a forum for Jewish Watford fans to speak out on “issues of importance to Jewish supporters, such as antisemitism and Holocaust Memorial Day”.

Tom Wyse, a Watford fan and a founder of the group, said: “With Watford returning to the Premier League, it is a very exciting time to be a Watford fan.

“Watford has a very big Jewish fan base and is well-known for its community work. Watford has undertaken impressive work when it comes to tackling antisemitism and supporting Holocaust Memorial Day, but we felt it was time to establish a Jewish supporters’ group, not only to back up the excellent work the club is doing, but to provide a Jewish voice within the club on issues of importance to Jewish supporters.”

Former Israeli international Ronny Rosenthal, who also played for Liverpool, Tottenham and Watford, welcomed the establishment of the group. He said he “looked forward to seeing the group working with the club this season and other supporters’ groups to help create a more tolerant, diverse and caring society. Good luck to Watford.”

The group said it hoped to inspire other clubs and fans to set up Premier League Jewish supporters groups.