Hebburn Town continue to lobby Government to relax restrictions on a behind-closed-doors Non- League Finals Day

By Jon Couch

HEBBURN TOWN say they are continuing to lobby the Government to relax restrictions on a behind-closed-doors Non- League Finals Day.

The FA Vase finalists have requested that the annual Wembley date be added as a Stadia Fan Test Event in line with the Government’s Covid pathway out of lockdown.

As it stands, the FA have listed three test events for returning fans at the national stadium; the FA Cup Semi-Finals on April 17-18 with 4,000 spectators allowed, the Carabao Cup Final on April 25 with 8,000 fans, and the FA Cup Final on May 15 with 20,000 supporters.

Now, in a joint bid with Vase Final opponents Consett, plus FA Trophy finalists Concord Rangers and Harrogate Town, Hebburn are engaging fans for support in the hope that the Non-League Finals Day can be added to that list.

A Hornets statement read: “From the day we found out about the final being scheduled we have been hugely disappointed that our loyal fans couldn’t join the players, staff and officials on this momentous occasion for the club.

“The club have lobbied the FA, Government and Department of Culture Media & Sport (DCMS) on a daily basis on behalf of our fans and wider Non-League family to allow Non-League Finals Day on Monday, May 3 (sandwiched between the fixtures above) to be opened as a “Stadia Fans Test Event” allowing everyone the opportunity to be part of and enjoy this great occasion.

“We’ll continue to work hard behind the scenes to do all we can to get fans allowed at the event and as soon as we receive any update or confirmation we will share with you all.

“In the meantime let’s keep our fingers and toes crossed for a good outcome for all.

“We’d like to thank fellow Non-League Finals Day clubs for the joint support in attempting to make a difference.

“We’d also like to thank our local MP Kate Osbourne who has spoken in the House of Commons and raised the relevant letters to government departments including the Prime Minister to push for a satisfactory resolution.”