Since our move to the Ricoh Arena I have become increasingly concerned with the actions of a minority of our supporters who insist on persistently standing throughout our games. The Ricoh Arena has been designed and constructed to the highest safety and comfort standards with all seats giving an excellent view of the pitch. There is therefore no reason for any supporter to stand to watch the game. I do recognize that at exciting times during the game fans will rise to their feet but persistent standing is both unsafe and anti-social.
Supporters need to be aware that persistent standing is a breach of our Ground Regulations and the licence issued by the Football licensing Authority. Persistent standing also affects the enjoyment of others who want to sit to watch the game particularly children, the elderly and fans who are small of stature. Persistent standing therefore could lead to the Stadium capacity being reduced or in the extreme could lead to parts of the ground being closed. Such action by the authorities would have a devastating affect on the financial stability of our Club and ruin what we have achieved with the development of our new Stadium.
Persistent standing has already imposed an additional financial burden on the Club with the need for a higher police presence inside the ground and a subsequent higher policing bill. I am also very concerned that in enforcing the Ground Regulations our stewards have been the subject of abuse and threats from supporters and we do not need this type of conflict on a match day, particularly when the stewards are working so hard to ensure the safety and well being of everyone. Sadly the reaction of some supporters has led to ejections since I will not tolerate any of my hardworking staff being the subject of abuse or threats.
I therefore make this plea to the minority of fans who cause us this problem. If you are a genuine supporter of our Club then please think of your safety and the safety and well being of others and sit down. Please also think of the financial harm that persistent standing is already costing the Club with higher police charges and if the conduct persists the possibility of the Stadium capacity being reduced or parts of the ground being closed. We want and need your support but you do not have to persistently stand to give us that support. So please ‘sit down or run the risk of losing your seat’.
If you require any further information or you want to discuss this with me then contact me on 02476 786324 or email me on petersmith@ccfc.co.uk.
Pete Smith.
Safety Officer.