Author: Martyn Tweddle

Extension of Smoking Ban within the Ground at Dean Street

As you will be aware smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces has been illegal in England, Wales and Northern Ireland since 2007 and in Scotland since 2006.   Shildon AFC has now taken the decision to extend this smoking ban to a number of outdoor areas of the ground at Dean Street.  This will also include the use of e-cigarettes/vaping devices.  This will be effective from today.

There are a number of reasons we have taken this decision including:

 – The protection of fans, players, staff and guests from the health hazards of second-hand smoke.

 – To minimise the potential fire hazards presented by lit tobacco use.

 – To minimise the amount of tobacco-related litter.

 – and to respect the right to good health and breathe clean air for all people in the ground.

The Club hope this will result in a safer and more comfortable environment for everybody attending the ground.

We have therefore identified a number of designated non-smoking areas around the ground, these will be clearly signed and active enforcement will be undertaken whenever the facility is in use.  These areas are:

 – Anywhere in and in front of the new seated stand.

 – In front of the old stand extending down to the area behind both the home and away dugouts.

 – The turnstiles and entrance area.

 – The raised standing area at the hospitality suite.

We hope you understand the reasons for this ban extension and agree that it will lead to a more enjoyable experience at Dean Street.

 

 
 

 

 

Loan Signing – Ryan Bolton

Shildon AFC are pleased to announce the loan signing of Ryan Bolton.  Ryan has joined us on a short term loan from Gateshead FC.

The defender joined the Gateshead FC first-team setup having spent the 2020/21 season with the under-19 squad.

Ryan appeared for the Gateshead first team during the club’s 2020/21 pre-season schedule, and was included in the 18-man squad to face Farsley Celtic in last season’s Buildbase FA Trophy.  He also appeared for Northern League Division Two side West Allotment Celtic prior to the cancellation of the 2020/21 season.

Ryan is eligible to play against Cleethorpes Town FC today.

Welcome to Shildon AFC Ryan.

NPL Partners with Wiseman Lighting

Pictured: NPL chairman Mark Harris (left) with Wiseman Lighting director Harry Riste

The Northern Premier League has a bright future after striking up a deal with Wiseman Lighting to become its official lighting partner.

Wiseman are the leaders in setting new standards in sport lighting and were the first installers of LED sports floodlighting in the UK.

They work with clubs at all levels to deliver projects from inception to completion, including supporting clubs with sustainable and innovative financial solutions.

NPL chairman, Mark Harris, said: “We’ve been looking for a lighting partner for some time. Every year, we do a survey with all of our clubs to find out from them what sort of partnerships would meet the demand and lighting came very high this year.

“We have been looking for the right type of company over the years and we think Wiseman’s is a perfect fit.

“It is beneficial to absolutely everybody. Our clubs benefit from superb service in terms of floodlight inspections, but more important the necessary guidance towards funding availability for LED systems and upgrades.

“From a league perspective, it is a great brand to be involved with and we look forward to growing it over many years.”

The deal was officially launched ahead of Atherton Collieries’ home game with Nantwich Town on Tuesday night, the first league game played under the new lights that Wiseman have installed at the Skuna Stadium.

A number of other NPL clubs have already also made enquiries with the new lighting partners.

Colls chairman, Paul Gregory, said: “Wiseman came recommended by the FA, we knew we needed new lighting and everything moved on quickly. They’ve been an absolutely brilliant company to deal with from start to finish.

“I can’t believe what a difference the new lights have made. Before them it was a bit like watching football through a stocking! I would recommend Wiseman to every club in the football pyramid, they have been a fantastic company to work with, innovative and thoroughly professional.”

Wiseman was established in 2013 by Harry Riste, who has more than 30 years experience in the industry.

They have installed LED floodlights across the football pyramid, as well as in other sports such as rugby, athletics, hockey and tennis.

On the partnership announcement, Harry Riste said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with the Northern Premier League who’s ambitions to help and support their member clubs are aligned with our own business aims. The exceptional quality of the LED product we offer alongside our high level of support will allow clubs in the NPL to transition to the latest floodlighting technology with ease.”

For more information, visit the Wiseman Lighting website at www.wisemanlighting.co.uk. You can also follow them on Twitter @wisemanlighting

ENDS