Cheltenham Town have issued the following statement in regards to the moving of the singing section from the Colin Farmer Stand to the Speedy Skips Stand for the match against Forest Green Rovers on November 2nd.
The Club agreed with the 1887 Red Army before the start of the season that for matches with crowds that are anticipated to exceed 800 travelling supporters that the singing section would be in the Speedy Skips Stand and not Colin Farmer Stand Block 7. This agreement was one of the conditions for bringing the new singing section into existence.
The Club is extremely happy with the way the singing section has grown and got behind the team, undoubtedly improving the atmosphere. But for these matches, as it was against Swindon Town, an agreement was in place to move the section back behind the goal.
Were the singing section to remain in place for the bigger games the club would face considerable opposition from the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, County Council (who issue our Safety Certificate) and the police, as well as considerable additional stewarding and police costs.
Supporters are reminded, for example, that it is a breach of Football League ground regulations to stand up to watch a match within a seated area and clubs are under considerable pressure to enforce this regulation.
The Club understands the disappointment of 'singing section' supporters but the safety of all supporters has to be the number one consideration. We remain committed to working with all our supporters to make the Jonny-Rocks Stadium a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone to enjoy.
In relation to this, the singing section will also be in the Speedy Skips Stand for the Newport County game on Saturday 12 October due to the anticipated away following being over 800.