‘DO THE RIGHT THING’
Supporters Trust asks Charnley to authorise ticket refunds – or risk ‘dereliction of duty’ to loyal fans
THE Newcastle United board has been accused of a ‘dereliction of duty’ to supporters as anger continues to grow over a lack of communication when it comes to refunds and new charges for match-day and season tickets.
In a letter sent to managing director Lee Charnley, the Newcastle United Supporters Trust [NUST] warned that ‘without supporters, Newcastle United does not exist.’
After several attempts to clear up the situation, the NUST have now gone directly to the top after their original requests were snubbed.
Efforts from The Chronicle to get answers on the situation from the club found there is nothing being planned at the moment to address what happens to the money paid for matches which will now be played behind closed doors.
The NUST letter, sent on May 29, reads: “Dear Mr Charnley,
“We have previously contacted Newcastle United to express our concerns at the lack of action by Newcastle United to assist its supporters in a time of need during this unprecedented global health and economic crisis.
“You have called on the fans of Newcastle United for support so often over the years and when we called for you to stand by your supporters you did nothing.
“Yesterday the Premier League formally confirmed the resumption of Premier League games behind closed doors for the remainder of the 2019/20 season.
“Today we ask you yet again to do the right thing and confirm that you will:
■■ Refund all Season Ticket holders on a pro-rata basis for all remaining 2019/20 home fixtures;
■■ Refund all single match sale tickets purchased for fixtures that will now be played behind closed doors (including away games), and
■■ Pause all future Season Ticket payments until the commencement date of the 2020/21 Premier League season is confirmed. ”We understand the club finds its self in a complex situation in light of the prospective sale of the club by the incumbent owner. “That does not give you a legitimate right to a dereliction of duty to your supporters. Without supporters, Newcastle United does not exist.
“We note the majority of clubs in the Premier League have managed to find solutions to these ticketing issues and to offer support to their fans.
“There is no obvious obstacle to Newcastle United doing the same. “As always, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss these issues and work with you to find a solution that works for all.”
You have called on the fans for support so often over the years and when we called for you to stand by your supporters you did nothing