Come on the pitch, we'll cancel the party

  • by Staff Writer
  • Tuesday, 3rd May 2016

West Ham United have issued a reminder to supporters planning to attend next week's farewell celebrations to remain in their seats both during and after the match.

In a message issued to season ticket holders and club members via email this afternoon, the club warned supporters that should fans encroach onto the playing surface, they intend to cancel either some of all of the post-match plans.

"To ensure the event, which has a sizeable budget behind it, runs to plan, the club are today reminding fans of the importance of staying in their seats come the final whistle," read the email.

"Due to event planning and licencing laws for evening fixtures, the show can only take place if the pitch is clear straight after the final whistle, so if any supporters enter the field of play after the match, it will mean cancelling all or part of the celebrations."

Co-owner David Sullivan also warned fans not to invade the pitch.

"We want it to be an evening that is ultimately about you, our loyal supporters, as it is you who have made the Boleyn Ground famous the world over," he said. "But to make it special we need your support.

"Any incursions on to the pitch will certainly mean cancelling the current squad’s richly-deserved lap of appreciation and denying some of our greatest ever players the chance to take the field for the final time. That would be a tragedy; for them and the Boleyn Ground.

"If we can present the post-match ceremonies as planned, we are sure you will walk away from Upton Park on Tuesday prouder than ever of the club you support. We hope those of you attending have a truly special evening - together we will create memories that will live with us forever."

The plans, which include the appearance of a giant hologram featuring former West Ham United and England captain Bobby Moore, are yet to be officially unveiled. However the club maintain that it will be a show no fan would want to miss.

"The game and subsequent closing ceremony are set to be broadcast to a huge global audience as the interest in the Hammers' high-profile move to the former Olympic Stadium continues to capture the imagination of the sporting world," insisted the club's email.

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