Harrogate Town, Sat 17th Oct, 12:30PM (H)
With our Emirates FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round tie against Harrogate Town fast approaching, we want to make supporters aware of several important matchday arrangements ahead of Saturday’s fixture at Gigg Lane.
The Shakers welcome National League opposition to the Salford Van Hire Stadium on Saturday 17th October, with a place in the First Round Proper at stake.
With a bumper crowd expected and several changes to our usual matchday operations, we strongly encourage all supporters to familiarise themselves with the information below and arrive early.
Matchday Timings
Saturday’s fixture will kick off at the earlier time of 12:30pm, following the game’s selection for live coverage on BBC Red Button and BBC iPlayer.
Our matchday opening times have been adjusted accordingly:
- 10am: Hospitality areas & Starkies open
- 11am: Turnstiles open
- 12pm: Alcohol sales at kiosks close
- 12:30pm: Kick-off
We anticipate a busy build-up to the fixture and encourage supporters to allow additional time for their journey and entry into the stadium.
Supporters are also encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance via Fanbase to help make entry as smooth as possible and allow us to plan and cater accordingly.
South Stand Arrangements
Due to the requirements of the BBC’s television broadcast, a temporary television scaffold has been installed within the South Stand.
This means that several areas of the stand will be unavailable for Saturday’s fixture.
The following blocks and rows will be closed:
- Blocks E and F: Fully closed
- Block D: Rows L onwards closed
- Block G: Rows E onwards closed
- Block H: Rows L onwards closed
The Wheelchair Enclosure will remain unaffected and will operate as normal.
We appreciate these arrangements will affect supporters who would usually watch the game from these areas and thank everyone for their understanding. With reduced seating availability in the South Stand, we particularly encourage supporters to arrive early.
Unreserved Seating
As is customary for cup fixtures at Gigg Lane, unreserved seating will be in operation for Saturday’s game. Supporters will be able to choose their seats within the areas available to them on a first-come, first-served basis.
With a large attendance anticipated and the reduced capacity in the South Stand, we strongly recommend entering the stadium as early as possible to secure your preferred seating.
Please note, Block E & F in the main stand is strictly reserved for media, hospitality guests, directors and guests only. Without the correct pass or wristband, you will not be allowed to sit in this area.
Admissions & Segregation
Full segregation will be in place for Saturday’s fixture.
We have the necessary provisions in place to open all areas of the stadium, subject to ticket sales and demand and a final decision will be made on Thursday evening. We are keen to ensure that our resources are used responsibly and that the club avoids unnecessary costs associated with opening stands where demand does not justify it. We therefore strongly encourage supporters to purchase their tickets in advance to help us plan accordingly and ensure the best possible matchday experience for everyone.
We ask all supporters to follow the relevant signage and directions from stewards when entering and moving around the ground. Fans will be subject to security searches on entry to the stadium as part of our matchday safety procedures.
Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Alcohol Regulations
There will be important changes to our usual alcohol arrangements for this fixture.
Due to Harrogate Town’s participation at Step 1 of the National League System, the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985 applies. This means alcohol cannot be consumed within sight of the pitch at any time, including in the stands and seating areas.
Alcohol will remain available in designated kiosks and hospitality areas where consumption is permitted, but supporters will not be allowed to take alcoholic drinks into the stands or to their seats.
Alcohol sales at stadium kiosks will close at 12pm.
After this time, kiosks will remain open for food and non-alcoholic refreshments, including tea, coffee and soft drinks. Please note, no alcohol is permitted to be sold in the Thatchers van in the South Stand for this fixture, but it will be open throughout for soft drinks and snacks.
We ask all supporters to respect these regulations and follow the instructions of our stewards and staff, to avoid ejection from the stadium.
Starkies Bar
Starkies bar will be open from 10am. Due to logistics and restricted movement between stands, particularly as the South Stand is already sold out, Starkies will only be open for fans in the Main Stand. Entry will be subject to capacity, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Matchday Fanzone
A matchday fanzone will be in operation in the stadium car park ahead of Saturday’s fixture, providing supporters with an opportunity to enjoy the build-up to this huge FA Cup occasion.
We encourage supporters to arrive early, soak up the pre-match atmosphere and make the most of the occasion before heading into the stadium.
Local singer, Kieran Arnold will be performing in the Memorial Garden, Peeler the Mascot will be in attendance for pictures with fans and the club shop will be open for merchandise.
Additionally, refreshments will be available in the car park with Art of Coffee selling a range of hot and cold drinks and cakes and new vendor ‘Portia’s Pantry’ selling breakfast baps and pastries.
Parking & Travel
Parking will be limited for this fixture and as always is allocated on a first come, first served basis. We have been informed that the majority of roadworks in the close proximity of Gigg Lane will be completed by Friday. However, we still suggest allowing additional time as the area around the stadium will be busy. Please be mindful of residents when parking and do not block driveways or park on double yellow lines. Parking enforcement officers will be patrolling the area, and vehicles parked illegally may be subject to a penalty charge notice.
Arrive Early and Plan Ahead
With the earlier kick-off, expected attendance and changes to our usual stadium arrangements, we anticipate a particularly busy matchday at Gigg Lane. Supporters are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, purchase tickets before arriving and allow plenty of time to enter the stadium.
Our staff and volunteers will be working hard throughout the morning to ensure everyone can enjoy the occasion safely and comfortably. We thank supporters for their patience and cooperation and look forward to welcoming everyone to Gigg Lane.
