Clubs 'need guidance' on concrete wall risk

A non-league chairman says there is a "potential" for risk to players from colliding with the walls.

Neil Blackmore stood in a blue jacket and looking at the camera with a serious expression. There is a football pitch behind him with green astro, blue spectator seats and a blue concrete wall.
Chippenham Town chairman Neil Blackmore says there is a "potential" risk of further injuries [BBC]

A collective effort has to be made for football to become "as safe as possible," a club chairman has said.

Neil Blackmore of Chippenham Town Football in Wiltshire said guidance is needed following the death of Chichester City Striker Billy Vigar, who collided with a concrete wall around a pitch.

He said: "It is tragic that such a young life has been cut short…we all need to take responsibility for this and do whatever it takes to make the game as safe as possible."

The Football Association (FA) said safety reviews of perimeter walls at football grounds in the National League will take place soon take place.

Concrete perimeter walls - which can feature adverts or club promotions - are often all which separates fans from players at matches.

In 2023, former Bath City striker Alex Fletcher was forced to retire from football after a collision with an advertising hoarding in November 2022.

Mr Blackmore continued: "When Alex had his accident, it brought home how dangerous it [concrete walls] can be.

"The emphasis is now on everyone in the football world to do something about hard boundaries."

A concrete wall at a pitch perimeter. The bricks are thick and you can see the green pitch behind.
Chippenham Town's stadium currently has concrete walls around the edge [BBC]

Some clubs in Wiltshire have already made changes. In January 2024, Corsham Town FC replaced their thick concrete walls with a perimeter fence.

The club's co-owner Chris Neuman said: "It is better for spectators, players and management in terms of their safety.

"The fence can separate easier for emergency services and present a better walkway through from the changing facilities for the officials.

"It's a safer, more aesthetic perimeter."

In a statement, the FA said officials would work with clubs to mitigate "potential safety risks."

A spokesperson added that "an immediate review, working with leagues, clubs and relevant stakeholders across the game" will focus on the safety of perimeter walls and boundaries around pitches in the National League system.

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Category: General Sports