SCST - Media Statement

The Swansea City Supporters Trust are extremely disappointed to report that the proposed Vetch Open day, to coincide with the 25th anniversary of achieving First Division status, will not be able to go ahead. A Trust sub-committee has done much background planning and research over the last couple of months, and the initial response from the authorities concerned was encouraging. However, we have now been informed by the City Council that we will not be able to proceed with the event. The reason given is that, after full legal consideration, the risk of injury to the public, due to the present condition of the Vetch, is too great to allow the event to take place. It was certainly felt by the Trust Board that the Open Day, planned for the May Day Bank Holiday weekend, and coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Swans promotion to the top flight, would have presented a superb opportunity for the people of Swansea to pay their last respects to one of Swansea's premier sporting and social institutions, as well as enriching the commemoration of that marvellous achievement under the managerial reign of John Toshack. We would like to thank Gerald Clements for his support of our proposal, as well as officers of the Council for their help and guidance, and we understand and respect the decision made by the Council. We do, however, find it sad that we live in a society that places such severe restrictions on itself in the name of safety, which has manifested itself in the prohibition of a much anticipated celebratory farewell. We shall now turn our attention to the organising of an Open Day at the Liberty stadium, which we trust will be a somewhat smoother process. This statement should be used in its entirety. Signed

The Swansea City Supporters Trust Board For further information or quotes, please contact Phil Sumbler at psumbler@swanstrust.com