Wor Flags have issued a battle cry urging Newcastle United supporters to get the new safe-standing section rocking. A club statement confirmed 1,800 rail “seats” will be installed in the Strawberry Corner ahead of next season.
Premier League and Championship clubs have been allowed to implement safe standing since a government ruling last summer. The traditional way to watch the beautiful game was on your feet until the Taylor Report - filed following the Hillsborough disaster in 1989 - recommended football stadiums convert to all-seater venues.
That suggestion became compulsory for all clubs from the 1994-95 season onwards - until now. Safe standing has successfully been used in Europe and now Newcastle are set to become the latest Premier League club to make the switch.
READ MORE: Newcastle United announce 'safe standing' area at St James' Park
Wor Flags, as well as the Newcastle United Supporters’ Trust, have long campaigned for St James’ Park to install safe standing. The fan-funded group are credited with improving the pre-match atmosphere at games with their evocative displays.
A social media post welcomed the club announcement - while urging supporters to do all they can to make it work. Wor Flags tweeted: “Everyone at Wor Flags is pleased to see the progress the club is making on introducing a safe standing section. Now it’s up to us, as fans, to make it work.
“This section has the potential to be a place of constant noise and passion. A lightning rod for the cauldron atmosphere that is St James’ Park at its very best.
“We’ll continue to try to do our small part in contributing to that atmosphere. We encourage anyone who wants to be part of leading the way in making a standing section work to consider moving if and when the opportunity arises.
“For those who choose to move away from new standing sections, we thank you for the part you will play in making this a success. Let’s make this a place to stand, to sing, to make some noise all match. Every match.”
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