Football’s alcohol ban could be scrapped - a welcome change for Newcastle fans?

Newcastle supporters could eventually be allowed to enjoy a pint in their seats at St James’ Park, with Prime Minister Andy Burnham backing a review of football’s ban on drinking alcohol in view of the pitch.

As Sky News reports, Burnham believes football fans are being treated unfairly compared with followers of other sports. The restriction has been in place since 1985 and covers the top five tiers of the men’s game.

Burnham questions different treatment of football fans

“I don’t think it’s fair for football fans to be singled out in that way,” Burnham said.

“I think that legislation dates to an era where football was very different, and I do believe there is a case to remove that discrimination.”

The Football Supporters’ Association has welcomed his comments, pointing to successful trials in the women’s game. Its chairman, Tom Greatrex, highlighted the inconsistency of supporters being allowed to drink in the same stadium seats at a concert or rugby league match, but being prohibited from doing so while watching football.

A welcome change for the match-going fan?

Personally, I’d welcome it. We shouldn’t let a couple of knackers spoil something for everyone else, and the possibility of somebody behaving badly shouldn’t mean the vast majority are permanently treated as though they can’t be trusted.

That doesn’t mean ignoring people who cause trouble. Deal with them, and make sure any trial takes the experience of those around them seriously. Nobody wants their afternoon ruined by someone who can’t handle their drink.

But there’s a practical benefit here that deserves more attention: easing congestion on the concourses.

At the moment, anyone buying a half-time pint has to stay down there to finish it. That adds people standing around drinking to those queuing for food, heading to the toilets or trying to get back to their seats, all within the same short window.

Being able to take that drink back into the stand could help clear some of that space. It wouldn’t suddenly solve every queue at St James’ Park, but less of a squeeze would be a massive improvement for the match-going fan, whether they drink alcohol or not.

Until then though, we’ll continue to enjoy our crisp, refreshing KNOX hydration drink. Not sure if you’ve heard of it. The club may have mentioned it once or twice. Available in stores now.