We are aware of the reaction to the recent U16s update and want to reassure supporters that we have read your messages and we are listening.
This decision was not taken lightly. It follows serious incidents of crowd disorder at a recent fixture involving Weymouth, before, during and after the match, where individuals were subjected to both verbal and physical abuse. As a result, the club is now under significant scrutiny and facing an FA investigation, with a requirement to demonstrate improved safety measures.
In response, we have already introduced crowd segregation and online-only ticketing, for away fans only, for the last two fixtures of the season, against Evesham United and Gloucester City.
While we value the energy and atmosphere that young supporters bring, there have unfortunately been incidents this season involving unsupervised U16s which we cannot ignore.
As a volunteer-led club, we simply do not have the resources or safeguarding capacity to take responsibility for large groups of unsupervised minors. The safety and welfare of all supporters must come first (including under 16s), and we cannot risk any situation where a young person comes to harm.
Any non-season ticket holders under the age of 16 will only be allowed access to games if accompanied by a paying adult.
We understand this is disappointing, but this is a temporary measure, and will be reviewed fully in the close season, and is taken in the interest of safety while the FA process is ongoing. We will, as stated, review the situation once the investigation concludes and will work with supporters and other agencies during the close season to find a more sustainable long-term solution.
In the meantime, we are keen to maintain the atmosphere that makes our club special.