Stoke-on-Trent votes to back Fair Game

“I am extremely proud to have been successful in proposing Stoke on Trent City Council to become a Fair Game council

“Standing up for fans’ values and demonstrating commitment to support our football heritage is of utmost importance to our city”

Ally Simcock, Conservatice Councillor for Sandford Hill Ward, Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent City Council today voted unanimously to endorse Fair Game and join the growing call to change the way our National Game is run for the better.

The motion – Time for the Fair Game manifesto in football – was proposed by Port Vale Supporter Liaison Officer and Conservative Councillor for Sandford Hill Ward, Ally Simcock. 

Straight after the vote, a delighted Cllr Simcock said: “I am extremely proud to have been successful in proposing Stoke on Trent City Council to become a Fair Game council.

“Standing up for fans’ values and demonstrating commitment to support our football heritage is of utmost importance to our city.”

The motion fully endorsed Fair Game’s call for a radical reform of the way football is run and also backed the introduction of Fair Game’s proposed Sustainability Index that rewards clubs that are “…run well, respect equality standards and properly engage with their fans and their community”.

Niall Couper, CEO of Fair Game, added: “Football means so much to our communities. But in recent years, the wishes of fans have been increasingly ignored. 

"On a personal level, I know how it means to the people of Stoke. My grandfather - Cyril Rigby – grew up in Burslem with his brother Len. My grandfather was an avid Stoke fan, while his brother supported Port Vale. That would have constant arguments over football and the merits of Stanley Matthews.

"But football united them. It was in their blood. Wearing their club colours was a sign of pride, not just in the results, but in everything that shirt stood for. Fair Game's aim is to protect that tradition and see investment in our communities to create long-term sustainable revenue.

“Today Stoke-on-Trent Council have stood firm with their communities and have honoured the traditions of the proud clubs of their city and also the memories of people like my grandfather Cyril Rigby. Thank you.”

Stoke-on-Trent City Council is the fourth council to endorse Fair Game, following on from Newcastle City Council, Oldham Council and Kendal Town Council.

Fair Game has put together a simple step-by-step guide on how to approach your own councillors and help make your own council a Fair Game Council.