Welcome to the Abbey
Steve Greenall - Watford (friendly), Saturday 1st August 1998
Whilst once again the pitch looks magnificent at the start of the season, the groundstaff have been at work in other places, notably assisting the tradesmen who have been revamping the dressing room areas. After the showers and toilets were done last year, the logical step this time was to take away the old benches, wall-covering and flooring. In the nick of time, this has been achieved. With plans presently being advanced towards the building of a new North Stand, replacing the Corona Kop, offices and Supporters' Club, little has been undertaken other than to keep the ground up to scratch in terms of complying with the Taylor Report.
One thing that is going to need doing, in order that we achieve the necessary safe levels for terracing, is barrier re-configuration and a brand new perimeter fence along the full length of the Habbin Stand. Football Trust monies have not yet been secured and the work has to be done. Therefore, by necessity, at some time during the season the work will have to be done and this may well mean the Habbin being closed until it has been. Whilst the inconvenience is regrettable, if the work is not done the safety authorities will have no alternative but to close the Habbin full stop. We will keep you fully informed every step of the way in this regard, but rest assured that the job should not mean more than two or three games being affected at the most - unless when the excavations begin, we run into any snags. We had a fair old number of complaints last year about the use of bad language. It is, of course, an offence under the various acts which cover football to swear in a football ground, and whilst it is not practical to try and point the finger at individuals - without mounting regular expensive exercises - it is unpleasant for youngsters especially to hear gratuitous effing and blinding. Without wanting to start a witch-hunt, can everyone try to curb the swearing? Can I remind you that if you are a Season Ticket holder YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR ADMISSION TO ALL CUP GAMES THIS SEASON. That starts with the newly named Worthington Cup, which marks the start of our home fixtures proper, against Watford a week on Tuesday. The usual matchday prices will apply. For the second leg, at Vicarage Road on Tuesday 18th August, prices are £14 for adults and £10 for concessions. Tickets can be bought in advance of the game (they go on sale at our Ticket Office on Monday morning), or at the turnstiles on the night. As often happens, we have found ourselves short of stewards for the new season. We would be delighted to recruit a few fresh faces - men or women. You need to be aged 18-55, physically fit, with a good sense of humour. You'd be paid £3.50/hour for four hours on match days. Please get in touch with Ian Darler if you are interested. STEVE GREENALL |