As a fan group, FORZA EASTEND is nearing its first season within the East End. In an effort to boost positive support within the stand for the team still further a number of ideas have been discussed amongst Eastenders in readiness for next season. We feel that the East End has had a positive impact on the atmosphere at Ashton Gate and improved for hundreds their enjoyment of watching the team. For this to continue but also grow further we would like BCFC to consider the following suggestions:
Pay on the day
We recommend the return of fans "paying on the day" to gain access to the East End; if space is available. The East End has never in its eighty plus year history required the prerequisite of a season ticket to gain admittance until the 2007 -2008 season. The stand has always been used by those on lower incomes and current arrangements see fans separated from friends, family members and visitors of other clubs such as our Dutch compatriots Willem II. This situation does not paint a positive image of BCFC.
Permanent safety in the Eastend
Currently a palisade fence is being used to prevent City fans from getting into the East End via the Dolman stand; so why not reintroduce the previously used fence between City fans and away fans in the away end? This fence would cut down on the amount of police and stewards needed and free up valuable seating currently used as segregation. Alternatively a new vastly improved measure could be adopted. The hugely successful and widely used polycarbonate fence is considered the way forward in Europe. It would be far less unsightly and unobtrusive. The polycarbonate fence is considered bullet proof and would offer far increased protection for fans at significantly reduced long-term costs for the club.
Flag storage
A secure area such as a shed or other storage facilities within the East End to store the giant forty foot George the St George and the now numerous Eastenders flags appearing in the East End along with the East End Mabel the drum something which is provided at York City for their supporters group and friends of FORZA EASTEND; the Jorvik Reds.
Megaphones
Bristol City to remove its ban on the use of megaphones within the East End. Fans of other clubs such as Aldershot allow their use within their grounds and this could be tried for trial period. It is difficult to believe that any fan within the East End would not be in favour of fans using a megaphone to orchestrate or conduct chants in attempt to add to the carnival feel of the stand and vocal support of the team. FORZA EASTEND are willing to work with the club in terms of practicalities for the megaphone use. We do not intend to use it to break ground regulations. It will not be used to direct obscenities at the opposition, that's what we've got Louis Carey for!
Merchandising Opportunities
The club and Eastenders to explore the possibilities of promoting BCFC and the East End by the sale of goods. There is a market here although not vast but in the last season nearly £1000 worth of FORZA EASTEND badges have been sold with all profits going towards the purchase of new flags and flag repair. This is something for instance that happens at Aldershot where the Fan group the Red and Blue Army have scarves sold within the Recreation grounds shop. We want an outlet in the Eastend selling city/FORZA EASTEND goodies as well as (edible) pasties.
Flags on poles
Flags on poles or sticks are currently banned from Ashton Gate; we feel this is an unnecessary rule and should be lifted. This ban runs contrary to what is seen at a great many other clubs such as Aberdeen, Accrington Stanley Aldershot, BRISTOL ROVERS, Celtic Chelsea, Colchester Utd Crystal Palace, ……the list seems to be endless and even the National stadium Wembley allows this. Bristol City FC often use between 500 -1000 seats as segregation at Ashton Gate along with CCTV, Stewards and Police it is hard to understand why flags are banned by BCFC when the rules of other clubs are so different. Flags being allowed into the East End would help to add a sense of spectacle and sit with Eastenders ideas of creating a vibrant matchday.
Themed days
BCFC to proactively promote Eastenders initutives e.g BRING BACK THE INFLATABLES DAY around the other stands so that other fan stake part if they so wish.
Lets push this forward
Eastenders this season have earned praise from fans of other clubs and our own manager but we wish to push our support on still further. In order for this to happen we need BCFC to work in unison with its support and then we really shall see within the East End support that is overwhelmingly positive, noisy, colourful, fun and meeting what the manager has called for.
"We've said all along that positive support gets through to the players. It's unbelievable and makes you feel ten inches taller, two yards quicker and work even harder"
GARY JOHNSON
"Don't settle for second best, we are the pride of the West".
FORZA EASTEND
