By Chris Thompson
November 11 2005

A decision by the local police has left hundreds of fans’ reeling after the kick off time with Wrexham was brought forward to 12:00 in the afternoon. The much anticipated, money-spinning League Two clash was scheduled for a 7:45 start on the evening of December 28th.

However, the safety concerns of advisors and Cheshire Police overruled the preferred proposals by Chester City and the Football League, respectively that the tie be played as originally scheduled, or on midday Christmas Eve.

Wednesday 28th is not a bank holiday, meaning that the club may be deprived of income by a smaller support, as well as the massive disappointment for supporters’ who return to work on that day.

The scheduled 7:45 kick off would have allowed for the majority of supporters to go to the all-ticket fixture, but this been made impossible for a vast number of fans’ because of the lunch-time start.

A disappointed Stephen Vaughan, the Chester City chairman, responded to the news yesterday, which the safety advisory group cited “public safety” paramount in their decision.

"This is the biggest home league game of the season for us, and the highest profile match since I took over the club.

"I just hope that our supporters aren't deprived of attending the game, because of their work commitments."

Vaughan added: "I hope Cheshire Constabulary carry on where they left off last season when we played Wrexham in the LDV Trophy.”

“They were extremely helpful and realistic with their staffing levels, and of course the accompanying charges. Hopefully that realism will continue."

---

chestercity.tk