LONDON - Never mind the behaviour on the pitch. English soccer authorities are planning disciplinary guidelines for the men dressed as mascots on the sidelines.  The Football League said it was considering confining mascots to the stands after kick-off, and hopes the code of conduct would be ready for the start of next season.

Mascots have gained popularity over the last few seasons and the authorities previously turned a blind eye after the fur flew in several on-pitch fights between rivals.

There have also been complaints from supporters that they had been abused by the cuddly-looking creatures.

Unruly behaviour by club mascots - including pitch invasions and fights - has prompted the Football League to draw up the code of conduct.

'It's not going to be something that's legally enforceable but will show what mascots should and should not be doing,' a Football League spokesman said.

'Mascots are there to provide good family entertainment. But sometimes, they get a bit over-exuberant and interfere with the game.

'We don't want mascots to be involved in behaviour that is a bad example to young fans.'

The most recent incident took place on Tuesday when Bury's Robbie the Bobby was sent off for the third time this season after lowering his trousers at visiting Bristol City fans and invading the away bench.

Swansea City mascot, Cyril the Swan, has also got into trouble in the past. It was once fined £1,000 (S$2,610) for invading the pitch and cautioned for throwing food at away fans. It also drop-kicked Zampa the Lion's head into the crowd during a game with Millwall.

Wolfie from Wolverhampton Wanderers has also had fights with Bristol City's Three Little Pigs and Baggie Bird from West Bromwich Albion.