Worthing chairman Barry Hunter has welcomed a political debate on lifting the ban on alcohol in football is FC Halifax Town prepare for their National League visit this weekend. The discussion was sparked by comments from the Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, who questioned the relevance of the decades-old legislation.
FC Halifax Town, currently 13th in the table with 13 points from nine games, travel to face 11th-placed Worthing on Saturday. The fixture pits two sides in solid mid-table positions against each other, with Town looking to build on a recent run of three wins from their last five outings.
Hunter backs review
The alcohol prohibition applies to spectators in the stands at matches in the top five tiers of English football, a rule that does not extend to other sports. Barry Hunter, whose club was promoted to the National League last season, said the potential change is worth considering.
"We would welcome a lifting of the ban," Hunter stated. He argued the current rules feel outdated in a modern matchday environment.
The debate began when Prime Minister Andy Burnham remarked on the legislation's age. "I think that legislation dates to an era," Burnham said, suggesting it may be time for a reassessment.
Context for Halifax fans
For Halifax supporters making the trip, the issue adds an extra layer of context to the weekend's encounter. The Shaymen head south after a dramatic 1-1 draw with Sutton United, where Max Bardell scored a 94th-minute equaliser. Their standings position remains firmly in the pack, just ten points off the summit.
Worthing, meanwhile, will be looking to use their home advantage at Woodside Road. The full squad details for both teams will be confirmed ahead of kick-off on Saturday afternoon. The match offers Town a chance to close the two-point gap to their hosts and continue their positive recent form.
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