Humberside Police have said in a statement that safety is a priority in support of the Grimsby Town Safety Advisory Group which has demanded that tickets for Coventry City supporters for tomorrow be taken off sale and none be available on the day.
Inspector Scott Snowden, from Humberside Police’s Command Support Unit, said: “Following a meeting of the emergency safety advisory group yesterday where information was considered from the local authority, representatives of Grimsby Town Football Club and police, a decision was taken by the local authority chair of the group to withdraw the sale of tickets available to visiting away fans.
“The safety of those attending this sporting event is a priority and a key factor in arriving at this decision.
“Both Humberside Police and Grimsby Town Football Club agreed to abide by the recommendations of the Safety Advisory Group.”
Coventry City have responded with the following from CEO David Boddy: “I have written to the Chief Executive at Grimsby to express our extreme disappointment at this decision and the late notice of it.
“This has caused the Football Club and more importantly our supporters severe inconvenience.
“This letter is not directed at the club personally, but I have also asked Grimsby to forward our disappointment and concerns to their Safety Advisory Group, Police and local council, as we believe it is unacceptable to make such arrangements so late in the day.
“While I appreciate Sky Blues fans will be very keen to go to the game and support the team in our first away match of the season, I would ask that if you have not purchased a ticket in advance you do not travel to the game.”