FANS | Chester FC Return of Fans Frequently Asked Questions

Ahead of this evening’s game and the long-awaited return of fans to the Deva Stadium, Chester FC has produced a list of Frequently Asked Questions to assist supporters in explaining some of the key changes on matchdays.

We are delighted we can welcome you back for what will be a momentous evening after such a long absence, but it is imperative supporters understand the importance of this pilot event and the potential consequences for the club of not following the guidelines.

We are committed to providing a safe environment for everyone so please familiarise yourself with the Spectators’ Code of Conduct, cooperate with our stewards and staff at all times and play your part in protecting yourself and your fellow supporters.

I am a season ticket holder. Can I attend the game?

Yes, we are able to accommodate everyone who has renewed their season ticket for the 2020/21 season. Please bring your new season ticket card with you as this is required  to gain entry.

I don’t have a season ticket. Can I buy a ticket?

Unfortunately not. The game with Hereford is a limited-attendance pilot event for season ticket holders only. If you don’t have a season ticket, please do not attend. We hope to be able to offer supporters the opportunity to purchase tickets for future fixtures.

I haven’t collected my season ticket card yet. Can I pick it up before the game?

The ticket office will be open for supporters to collect their season ticket cards, however please allow yourself plenty of time and keep a safe distance when queueing.

I don’t have my usual seat number on my season ticket card. Can I change this or sit somewhere else?

No, please ensure you sit in your allocated seat. In order to adhere to social distancing, it has been necessary to move some supporters, however the club has tried to keep these changes to a minimum. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding, and it is our intention for everyone to return to their usual seats when Covid-19 restrictions have been removed.

Will parking be available?

Yes, car parking will be free for all supporters for the Hereford match. Please maintain social distancing when leaving or returning to your car. If you haven’t yet collected your parking pass, please avoid collecting this before the game to ease demand on the ticket office, unless you still need to collect your season ticket card.

Do I need to do anything before I arrive at the stadium?

All spectators must undertake a Covid-19 self-assessment before arriving at the stadium and you MUST NOT attend if:

• You feel unwell
• You are self-isolating
• You or someone you have been in close contact with has tested positive
• You or someone you have been in close contact with has symptoms of coronavirus, including a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, sore throat, headache, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

What time should I arrive at the stadium?

Plan your journey in advance and arrive at the stadium in plenty of time. We are aiming to have the ground open from 6.30pm for supporters to gain entry.

What happens when I get to the ground?

Please ensure that you arrive in plenty of time to go through the entry procedures, including a temperature check. If you record a temperature of 37.8 degrees or above, you will not be permitted to enter the ground and should return home.

There will be no turnstiles in operation and access will be through the exit gates. Your season ticket card has a unique barcode, which will be scanned upon entrance. You will only be able to gain access through your specified entry point. The use of the NHS App with the stadium QR Code will speed up your entry. Please use the hand sanitiser dispensers that can be found throughout the stadium.

Please avoid bringing large bags into the stadium and only do so if absolutely necessary, to avoid slowing down the stadium entry process.

Where can I stand on the Harry McNally Terrace?

The capacity of the terrace has been reduced significantly to ensure there is sufficient space for social distancing to be maintained. Please remain in your family or social bubble, be aware of your proximity to fellow supporters and cooperate fully with our stewards at all times.

Do I have to wear a face covering?

Yes, everyone attending the game must wear a face covering when entering, exiting and moving around the stadium. You may remove your face covering once in your seat or standing area and while eating or drinking, however the club strongly encourages supporters to wear a face covering at all times. If you do not have a face covering or a medical exemption, then you will not be able to enter the ground.

Will the kiosks and bars be open?

No, the Blues Bar and Legends Lounge will both be closed and there will be no refreshment kiosks open inside the stadium. Food and drink will be available from two catering vans outside the stadium, however this must be purchased before entering the ground. One van will be serving drinks and confectionery, the other will be serving hot food. Please keep a safe distance when queueing.

Will the Club Shop be open?

No, the club shop will be closed. You can continue to shop online at www.chesterfcretail.com.

Will I be able to buy a programme?

No, there will be no programmes available to purchase at the ground. As a season ticket holder, you will receive a free digital copy via email at approximately 6.30pm. You can order digital copies for £2 and printed copies for £2.50 plus postage from MatchDayCreative here.

Will there be toilets available?

Yes, when using toilet facilities, please be aware a queuing system will be in place on a one in, one out basis. Be patient and considerate towards other users, and follow the instructions of our stewards and staff. Where possible, try to avoid peak times (such as half-time and the end of the game). Maintain good hand hygiene at all times around the stadium – use the sanitiser dispensers provided and avoid touching your face, or handles and railings whenever possible.

Can I leave my seat during the game?

Please remain in your seat/standing location for the full game if possible and avoid unnecessary movement. If you need to leave your seat, please wait until gangways are clear, avoid face to face contact and follow stewards’ instructions. At all times please observe social distancing and avoid close contact with others not in your social bubble.

What happens at full-time?

Please be ultra patient when leaving the stadium and listen to the advice from stewards. In most cases you will only be permitted to leave upon the direction of a steward to ensure staggered exits across the stadium footprint and thus mitigate any risk. It will take longer than normal to leave due to these procedures.

I have another question or query. Can you help?

Please email info@chesterfc.com or phone 01244 371376 and we will do our best to assist you. We are receiving more enquiries than usual at present so your patience is appreciated.