"The Chelsea Supporters' Trust (CST) called for action earlier this week after writing to the force to voice concerns regarding an operation in which approximately 3,000 travelling fans were held back outside the Valley without prior notice following the conclusion of a game that kicked off at 8pm in freezing temperatures. The CST complained about a lack of communication from the police, unsafe conditions, blocked routes causing confusion and a surge taking place once the holdback was lifted."
"It added that visible distress was caused by fans being directed towards a confined space for almost 30 minutes before being allowed to leave. No advance communication was provided to supporters regarding the possibility of a post-match holdback, leaving thousands unprepared for what followed, Dominic Rosso, the CST chair, wrote. While operational challenges are understood, clearer communication is essential for maintaining trust and reducing frustration in high-pressure situations."
"As supporters exited via the red gates on to Valley Grove, a visible police block of three police vans on the right-hand side led many to assume that the correct route was to the left. This directed hundreds of supporters into a poorly lit and hazardous dead-end residential area. Freezing conditions meant muddy ground quickly turned to ice, resulting in people slipping, falling and navigating low walls in darkness."
Approximately 3,000 Chelsea supporters were held back outside the Valley after an FA Cup tie at Charlton, with no prior notice and in freezing temperatures. The Chelsea Supporters' Trust reported lack of police communication, unsafe conditions, blocked routes causing confusion, and a surge when the holdback was lifted. Fans endured nearly 30 minutes directed into a confined space, causing visible distress and unpreparedness. A police block of three vans diverted many into a poorly lit, hazardous dead-end residential area where muddy ground froze, leading to slips and falls. Chelsea had 3,065 allocated tickets and the CST described the police action as deeply disappointing.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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