SEVERAL Town fans have recently had their flags confiscated (home and away) and so the Town Supporters Association have asked the club to clarify the position.
Here are some excerpts from the response:
"The club understand your concerns and in recent weeks the issue of supporters bringing flags into the ground has been raised several times.
"As far as HTAFC are concerned we see flags, where safe, as enhancing the atmosphere and experience at games. They are part of the heritage and heart of football.
"That said, the Ground Regulations issued by the Football League state that poles and other items that could compromise public safety cannot be brought into a stadium.
"We and KSDL are working with the Safety team and the Football Authorities on this.
"The issues we have to deal with include fire hazard, obstruction of sight lines, potential for flags to carry offensive or racist graffiti and whether poles could be dangerous or used as weapons.
"While these may appear theoretical or low risk in today’s real world, due process has to be followed.
"We are working to eliminate any confusion within the regulations and determine what can be brought into the stadium, and are very hopeful of establishing a clear and simple policy that can be announced at the earliest opportunity.
"But until approval has been given, unfortunately no flags will be allowed into the ground."
HTSA is grateful for the clarification and will press for an acceptable outcome.
Town’s next away trip is, of course, Sunday, November 1 (2.00) to Oldham. There will be an HTSA coach as usual, leaving the Galpharm at noon. Prices for members are £10 and £8 (concessions). Please ring either 07926 165863 or 07798 727782 to book or visit the cabin this Saturday.
That match will also see a meeting for our North West group, to be held at North Chadderton Social & Bowling Club, Broadway, Chadderton, Oldham, OL9 0EL (Tel: 0161 624 3758). There is a large car park and it’s about 5-10 minute walk from the ground.
