Further to our recent announcement, the ban on all smoking and vaping within the stadium will come onto force on Monday 12 Augusts – being prior to the start of the new season for most teams and hirers, the start of term for the Academy and the return to training for many of our teams.
An area adjacent to the turnstiles, but outside of the stadium perimeter, is being cordoned off for those needing to smoke or vape when visiting the ground. Signage will be installed to make this clear. The area will include a two-metre viewing window onto the pitch. Tickets will be issued for all paid matches from now onwards, and these will need to be shown to re-enter the ground during the first half of these matches. Anyone observed attempting to smoke or vape outside of this area at any time will be asked to move to it, and then banned from the premises if they repeat this behaviour.
We would like to thank all the of players, parents, staff, students and sponsors who have provided their support; including that it should have been introduced sooner. We have also received a small number of representations from those who consider it appropriate to smoke in an environment which serves around 1,000 Under 18 players, hirers and their families seven days a week in season. However, this is a small price to pay to help protect the health of our players, youngsters and students. Anyone who has purchased a Season Ticket and no longer wishes to attend the club may return their ticket and will be issued a refund upon receipt.
In conclusion, the Board would like to remind everyone that our vision and purpose as an organisation is to use football to promote and improve public health within our community. Smoking is the leading cause of premature, preventable death and this policy is intended to minimise the harm it causes at our club, whilst respectful of those who need to smoke or vape who may continue to do so, but a short distance away from the vast majority to whom we have a duty of care.