Boost for Athletic's disabled fans

Disabled fans' safety improved in special enclosure

Disabled fans' safety improved in special enclosure

FACILITIES for Athletic’s disabled fans have been upgraded thanks to the generosity of one of the club’s sponsors.

Since the demolition of the Broadway Stand, disabled supporters situated beneath the Chronicle Suite have complained they are even more exposed to the elements.

They asked if there was any way they could be given added protection from the icy, winter wind which blows across the car park.

Sponsors Sign and Hire, who produce the pitch perimeter boards at Boundary Park, offered a helping hand by producing a special protective screen which is placed behind the disabled platform and which acts as a shield against the elements.

Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy said: “We have been able to enclose part of the disabled platform to give added protection, but not all of it for safety reasons.

“As we know Boundary Park can be a notoriously cold and draughty stadium so this will be a big help to our disabled fans.

“I would like to thank Sign and Van who have done the work at no cost to the club.”

Disabled fan Jeanette Brazil is delighted with the improvement in facilities. She said: “It is fantastic and so much warmer and drier than before the improvements”

Athletic’s disabled fans also have viewing areas in the Detect All Chaddy End and at the rear of the Leesfield Developments Rochdale Road Stand.