Welcome to a new newsletter
style from the trust. The aim is to keep our members updated on Trust
activities and projects, competitions, interviews and guest posts from local
writers.
Firstly the Trust through
social media placed on record its thanks to Nigel Adkins for his excellent work
as Hull City Head Coach and wish him every success in the future.
Naturally we welcome Grant McCann as the clubs
new head Coach along with his Assistant Cliff Byrne and hope his tenure is a
successful one.
Over the summer the Trust has
been busy with various projects. Our Vice-Chair Graham Cannon represented the
board at the recent East Riding FA Grassroots Awards night. We congratulate the
award winners. We would also
congratulate Catherine Bishop on her appointment as Tigers Trust CEO.
The Trust were involved in
the Emmaus Hull & ER football tournament which was a great success.
Chairman Geoff Bielby
attended The FSA AGM in London. The Football Supporters Association continues
to work tirelessly on behalf of supporters.
June saw us run a successful
Women’s World Cup Competition and we will be bringing back the Last Man
Standing competition for the start of the new season. Look out on social media on how to enter and
the qualifying dates. We hope to have
some exciting prizes to offer. We’re
also looking at other new competitions so look out for these too.
The Trust were delighted to
host the launch of the fabulous book on City by Richard Gardham “The Decade”.
Held at Mr Chu’s it was great to see ex tigers Ken Wagstaff, Ian Ashbee, Dean
Windass and many more in attendance and taking up the mic to tell us their Hull
City stories. The book is available from
Waterstones in Hull and via Amazon and is a great read.
Coming out in August are two more Hull city related books.. Our very own
Greg Whittaker releases “I can’t help falling in love with you: Growing up as a
football addict”. The book is available on Amazon for £11.34 at present.
Alfie Potts Harmer releases “
England’s Greatest Defender :The story of Neil Franklin” on August 15th
again its available on Amazon for £12.99.
The Trust will be involved in
both book lauches and we’ll have more information on the dates and venues
shortly.
Our next board meeting is on
July 29th and if any member wishes to raise any related matters
please contact the trust secretary at secretary@hullcityst.com
REMEMBER
WHEN
This programme was for a
pre-season friendly and is provided courtesy of @tigerprogrammes
It’s the first time new
signing Steve Massey got a mention and in our next newsletter we hope to have a
Q&A with the former City striker.
You will note City had taken with them to
Wisbech trialist Mike Condon who had been at Middlesborough but wasn’t offered
a deal by then boss Colin Appleton. Neil Cockin a product of South Hunsley
school also travelled.
Back in August 1983 City had just been
promoted and the season was set to end in frustration as one goal denied the
tigers promotion.
In the summer of 83 , Paul
Young was top of the charts with “wherever I lay my hat” and ITV launched its
new quiz show ‘Blockbusters”. City had further friendlies against Derby
,Middlesborough, Sheffield Wednesday and Ipswich before a season opener with
Burnley.
Finally
We welcome contributions from
local football writers, if you have an idea for an article please get in touch.
The new season is a week away & LMS is back with a new host – David Batte.
The format remains the same as last season and the opening weeks fixtures can be found here.
Just select a team to win it’s opening fixture to progress to round two. The competition rolls on until there is just one player remaining. Should all the Championship teams become used then another division will be selected. Selections need to be made by 6pm on Friday.
The prize for this opening competition is a great book from Pitch Publishing – ‘Booked’ – a humorous look at footballers autobiographies featuring Windass and Bullard amongst many others.
All entires and any questions please email david.batte@hullcityst.com
You must be a member to enter. Not a member? Sign up here
The Trust welcomes the club initiative to obtain fans view via a customer survey and look forward to hearing the feedback in due course.
Many of our members were contacted by phone over recent months for club feedback and we wonder when the results of that feedback will be made available.
An opportunity has arisen to join the board of HCST as Secretary. Due to personal reasons, our current Secretary Richard Mathers who has served for the last 3 years with distinction, will be stepping aside. This is an exciting opportunity for someone to become involved with the Trust and would ideally suit someone with experience in administration, although this is not essential. Below is an outline of the main responsibilities of the Trust secretary. If you think this is something that would be of interest to you, or would like further information then please contact us via contact@hullcityst.com.
1 – Board meeting agenda, minutes and actions 2 – Control in/out of 2 email accounts ( secretary@hullcityst.com and contact@hullcityst.com) 3 – liaison with FSF/SD/FSA 4 – Control of the Election Management Group (EGM) to ensure a fair and transparent annual election process 5 – AGM agenda & minutes. (inc Members postings for rule changes, election process etc) 6 – Collate annual report 7 – Club contact and correspondence 8 – FA/EFL contact and correspondence 9 – Administration/set up for new partners 10 – Updating Trust Rules and Policies on a bi-annual basis (inc version control) 11 – Annual return to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) 12 – Stock levels of membership merchandise (ie cards, badges, car stickers as well as stamps etc) 13- Written correspondence to/from registered address 14 – Monitoring suitability of social media postings on official Trust channels 15 – Representing HCST as required at local and national level 16 – Head the Membership sub group (inc documenting minutes, actions etc) 17 – Offering guidance & advice to the Chair and other Directors as required to ensure Trust Rules & values are adhered to at all times
The announcement of Nigel Adkins
departure from the Club is both disappointing and concerning.
Since Ehab Allams statement referring to ‘building bridges with fans’ we’ve seen
another divisive poll where less than half the ‘eligible’ Club members voted,
(when the opportunity should have been given to former members to have their
say on potentially voting on a matter that could entice their return).
This has resulted in a welcome reintroduction of concessionary
pricing, yet witlessly without the re-introduction of disabled concessions, but
at the cost of the vocal North Stand members who are now either being
unnecessarily moved to other areas of the ground or cancelling their
memberships due to this Club stipulation.
The future of numerous players remain uncertain and now after two
months of reportedly ‘positive talks’ between the Club and the Head Coach over
a contract extension, the owners have apparently refused to acknowledge the concerns
expressed by Nigel Adkins which now sees him leaving the Club with his backroom
staff.
The continued mismanagement of the Club rolls into yet another
summer of disruption and with the loss of another manager (that’s eight in
eight years) causing more instability seems unlikely to attract potential
investors willing to discuss an unrealistic asking price to enable the Club and
the supporters to move positively together.
HCST would like to thank Nigel for his positive and professional
tenure as Head Coach and understand why he’s had to make such a difficult
decision but wish him well in his future career.
The Women’s world cup gets underway on Friday and we are launching our competition today. The prizes include a match worn Hull City Ladies shirt amongst other football related prizes. Details here:
WORLD CUP GROUPS
A – FRANCE, SOUTH KOREA, NORWAY, NIGERIA
B- GERMANY, CHINA, SPAIN, SOUTH AFRICA
C- AUSTRALIA, BRAZIL, ITALY, JAMAICA
D- ENGLAND, SCOTLAND, ARGENTINA, JAPAN
E- CANADA, HOLLAND, NEW ZEALAND, CAMEROON
F- CHILE, SWEDEN, USA, THAILAND
BOOKIES ODDS – FRANCE 10/3, USA 7/2, ENGLAND 6/1, GERMANY 6/1, JAPAN 14/1, HOLLAND 16/1, AUSTRALIA 18/1, BRAZIL 20/1, SPAIN 20/1 CANADA 25/1 THAILAND 500/1 ETC
GROUP A – WINNER – RUNNER UP
GROUP B – WINNER RUNNER UP
GROUP C – WINNER RUNNER UP
GROUP D – WINNER. RUNNER UP
GROUP E – WINNER RUNNER UP
GROUP F WINNER RUNNER UP
TEAM TO SCORE MOST GOALS –
OVERALL WINNER –
POINTS – 3 EACH CORRECT ANSWER
Prizes – Hull City Ladies Goalkeeper Shirt & Other Football Prizes
Hull City Supporters Trust would like to thank everyone who voted in the ticket model poll, especially the 58.1% who voted in favour of the concessionary ticket model.
Whilst we welcome the limited return of concessions, we call on the Club to restore Disabled Concessions and justify why it’s necessary to relocate North Stand supporters. In addition, if this is, “based on the pricing structure used in the 2010/11 season” why are seniors prices now from age 65 and not 60 as previously?
We still believe all supporters who have attended matches in the recent past and are registered, as per previous ballots, should have had a vote and we call on the Club to explain why.
Finally, the Clubs refusal to engage in dialogue even with their own Supporters Committee on the ballot is an unacceptable practice and would have surely assisted engagement in the ballot and not relied upon individual supporters and ourselves as a Trust to provide support.
As all Hull City supporters will be aware of by now, on Thursday 9th May, the Club announced details of a ticketing model vote with the potential option of a ticket model including concessionary ticket prices for Junior & Senior fans based on the previous 2010/11 model plus an increase to reflect inflation etc.
It must also be noted that a member of the Club’s ‘Management’ contacted our Secretary prior to the 4pm release of the Club announcement to give a forewarning and seek an initial reaction to what was being proposed. However, as is now almost customary under the current owners and ‘senior management’ of the Club, once again the choice between ‘option A’ and ‘option B’ is not a straight forward one, and once details of the proposed options were reviewed in detail it was apparent that they could potentially generate major inconvenience to a number of supporters, (i.e. those located in the North Stand), whilst appearing to ignore consideration to others, (i.e. disabled fans).
Following feedback from a number of Trust members and regular supporters, on Friday afternoon Hull City Supporters Trust, (HCST), issued a statement on social media channels and to local radio and written media outlets to express some concerns that it was felt needed clarity from the Club in relation to the ticketing options proposed.
A more detailed letter was sent to members of Club much later that evening, which included an offer to help & support the Club in publicising the need for Hull City fans to use their vote in the poll once clarity on the issues raised was received. The letter sent to the Club is attached. (we have redacted personal information)
It was very disappointing therefore that within 9 hours of the e-mailed letter being sent, it was completely rejected by a member of ‘Club Management’. Whether the content of the letter was discussed with other members of the Club’s hierarchy is something only the Club can confirm. There is no indication from the author of the e-mailed response that it was ‘private and confidential’ so we are happy to share it (see attached) . (we have again redacted personal information).
Despite our best efforts to raise what are surely key concerns on behalf of many Hull City supporters, the Club continue to refuse to engage in meaningful dialogue with HCST and apparently ignore the legitimate concerns of the fans. We have attempted to engage with another supporter’s organisation to enquire if they are prepared to raise the concerns on our behalf to try and stimulate a formal response from the Club.
Our advice therefore to our members and the wider Hull City fan base is to make a personal decision on whether to submit a vote in the poll announced by the Club and consider which option would be best for themselves and other supporters in the short-medium term.
Finally, whilst we welcome the Club owners announcing an opportunity for concessionary pricing to be reconsidered as a viable option for supporters in an attempt to ‘build some bridges’ with the fans prior to any potential sales to future owners, it is disappointing that such an offer in its current format is potentially disruptive to many fans, whilst ignoring the needs of others.
We do not anticipate making any further statement on this ballot prior to its deadline of 9pm on Tuesday 28th May
Hull City Supporters Trust
Copy of Letter:
10th May 2019
Pricing Model Vote
Dear (xxxx),
I hope you are both well?
(xxxx), may I start by thanking you for taking the time to call me yesterday to discuss the communication to fans from Ehab Allam regarding the proposed vote on pricing models prior to its release and allowing me to share some initial thoughts.
As you I’m sure will have expected, this was a subject that was debated extensively by the Hull City Supporters Trust (HCST) board members last night and throughout today, which has also seen a number of our members contacting us during this time to seek clarity on some information and queries important to them.
We genuinely welcome the move by Ehab and the Club to face into the issue of concessionary pricing for membership and matchday ticket pricing and acknowledge that after a much-publicised stand-off and period of stalemate that this is an attempt to redress the situation.
However, you may be aware that we issued a holding statement to our members and local media earlier today, with the main points raised as follows:
We are very disappointed that lapsed members, (i.e. the fans whom Ehab indicates he wishes to build bridges with), are excluded from the voting process. Our analogy is that this is the equivalent of a major supermarket asking regular shoppers how to entice back shoppers who have taken their custom elsewhere in recent years. Surely understanding the opinion of supporters/ex-membership card holders as to what could be done to encourage to return to the K.Com stadium on matchdays is vital? We therefore respectfully request that the vote is expanded to enable supporters with a customer number on the Club ticketing database to participate in this vote and potentially expand the opinion pool for the voting process.
Option B states that it returns prices to the 2010/11 model. However, there is no mention of ticket pricing for Disabled fans which can only lead to a conclusion the proposal is not a full replication of the model named and that Disabled fans are effectively excluded from voting? We acknowledge, (particularly through your extensive activity on your personal Twitter account xxxx), that the Club are citing an alignment with the EFL recommended ‘Level Playing Field’ guidelines and suggesting disabled supporters contact (xxxx) directly with their own proposals, but this could be seen as emphasising the omission of disabled fans from the main voting process? We respectfully request that clearly defined concessionary pricing for disabled fans, (and any associated consideration for their assistants), is added to the Plan B pricing model
Plan B states that home fans currently members within the North stand will be relocated. There is no explanation provided for this decision and based on feedback received and comments posted on numerous social media sites, it seems to be a divisive move. The current location of ‘visiting supporters’ in the North-East corner of the ground satisfies the minimum requirements of ticket allocations for the competitions Hull City compete in and works well with the design of the stadium. We therefore call upon the club to give the reasons behind this decision or remove it from the conditions attached to Plan B pricing model.
Reference is made to the Upper West Stand. What will be the criteria for this part of the stadium to re-opened, (i.e. ticket sales in excess of a determined level?) and will all maintenance and cleaning work be carried out prior to re-opening. Please advise
Members of the Founder 500 Club, (who are long standing supporters seated in section W5 in the West Stand), previously had Senior Citizen concessions taken away and were expected to pay corporate prices. Will the Club be reverting to the previous pricing model, (plus inflation etc), that was in place in 2010/11 in the Plan B pricing model for Founder 500 Club members? Please advise.
The Department of Digital Culture Media & Sport, (DCMS), have issued guidance notes on ‘meaningful dialogue’ between Football Clubs and its Supporters. The performance of Clubs on these guidelines are monitored by both the Premier League and English Football League (EFL). Hull City partly meet these guidelines through their Supporters Committee, (SC), however HCST are not aware that the voting poll announced yesterday, (May 9th), on the possible re-introduction of a concessionary ticket model was discussed at the most recent SC meeting, even though it was a topic extensively debated and continually rejected by the Club in a number of previous SC meetings. Can the Club please offer an explanation as to why a potential change in direction by the Club on a concessionary ticket model was not discussed at the last SC meeting?
With regards to ‘Young Adults’ proposed pricing on the Plan B pricing model, we feel that this should not replicate the Seniors 65+ pricing based on the fact that ‘Young Adults’ are unlikely to have the same level of disposable income available to them as Senior 65+ fans and therefore respectfully request that the ‘Young Adult’ prices are reduced by approximately 10% to reflect this, (which may further entice the large student population in the city and surrounding areas to return to supporting the Club on matchdays)
We would also like clarification on how the vote process will be transparent.
• How are votes collected and combined across all voting formats?
• Who is monitoring the process to ensure impartiality?
• Will the vote cast be fully published?
• Will the club appoint an independent scrutiny officer?
I’d like to take this opportunity to confirm that no stage last year did HCST openly call for a ‘boycott’ of the 2nd ballot organised by the Club, but did suggest to our members and the wider fan base that voting should not be undertaken until the result of the first ballot was declared by the Club which as you are aware still remains undeclared to this day.
To summarise, as a Trust Board, we are keen to encourage our members and the wider Hull City fan base to get involved and submit their votes in the process announced by the Club this week, as we believe the Club are offering a genuine opportunity for a concessionary ticketing model to return, that we are aware is the primary reason why a large number of previous season ticket holders/membership card holders no longer attend home matches. (We also presume that this has also been highlighted as a common issue to current membership card holders that had the opportunity to feedback to Club staff during the recent rounds of courtesy calls?)
We also embrace the timing of the communication and ticketing model voting opportunity declared by the Club yesterday, as it falls nicely onto the back of the terrific launch of the book ‘Decade’ by Richard Gardham that was officially launched last Saturday at Mr Chu’s restaurant on St Andrews Quay and attended by numerous supporters, ex-players and indeed current Club employees. The whole evening enraptured the affection and powerful bond between supporters and the Club, which has been strained in recent years for a number of reasons but is clearly still evident and awaiting a return.
It has been well documented that relationships between HCST and the Club have been ‘difficult’ over the past 12 months, but on behalf of the Board, I respectfully request that you give consideration to and also a response to the points that we raise above on behalf of our members and the wider fan base, to enable them all to make a more informed decision on which ticketing model option appeals to them more which in turn will allow HCST to openly support the Club request for all members to submit their vote and hopefully see an increase in matchday attendances, a more positive atmosphere generated by the fans to better support the team, and ultimately a more enjoyable matchday experience for all supporters.
With the voting deadline issued by the Club stated as being Tuesday 28th May at 9am, may I respectfully request that we receive a response to our questions above no later than Friday 17th May at 5pm, which will give enough time for supporters to consider your responses and for HCST as a leading supporters organisation to encourage all of our members and the wider fan base to submit their votes by the deadline above.
As always, I am available on (xxxxx) should you wish to discuss
Please be assured of our best intentions
Yours sincerely
Richard Mathers Secretary Hull City Supporters Trust
Email response from Hull City
From: xxxx xxxx@hulltigers.com
To: secretary@hullcityst.com
Date: 11 May 2019 at 09:47
Subject: Re: Ticket Model Vote
Thanks Richard.
As mentioned before, the Club will not be responding formally to any HCST comms for the reasons outlined in our letter. The Club’s position on this remains, and our stand on this has been further discussed with Andy at the EFL recently FYI.
Sent from my iPhone
On 11 May 2019, at 00:50, ” secretary@hullcityst.com” < secretary@hullcityst.com> wrote:
Dear xxxx,
Please find attached a letter raising some feedback and queries by our Board on behalf of our members and the wider fan base. I would be most grateful if you would review the content objectively and offer the courtesy of a response as requested. Kind regards Richard
The trust welcomes the opportunity
for fans to have a vote on the return of ticket concessions or family bundles.
However, there are questions and observations that we wish the club to respond
to.
1 . We are very disappointed that lapsed members, the fans whom
the Vice Chair indicates he wishes to build bridges with, are excluded from the
voting process. This would be the equivalent of Tesco asking regular shoppers
how to entice back shoppers who have taken their custom elsewhere. How can fans
be asked to decide for others ?
2. Option B returns prices to the 2010/11 model. However, Disabled
fans are excluded. Whilst the club are citing a, ‘level playing field’ as their
arbitrary guidance some of our disabled
members and fans are indicating
vociferously they do not represent them. It cannot be the 2010/11 model
if it does not include disabled fans as concessions. We would also wish for
clarification on the age for Senior Citizen concessions.
3. Option B states that home fans in the North stand will be
relocated. There is no explanation provided for this and it seems a divisive
move. We therefore call upon the club to give the reasons behind this or remove
it from the scenario.
4. Reference is made to the Upper West Stand. What will be the
criteria for this to re-opened and will all maintenance work be carried out
prior to re-opening.
5. Members of the founders 500 club, who are long standing
supporters seated in w5 west stand had Senior Citizen concessions taken away
and were made to pay corporate prices. Will the club be reverting to the
situation as of 2010/11 in Option B
6. The Department of Digital Culture Media & Sport, DCMS have
guidance rules on meaningful dialogue to football clubs. Clubs performance on
this is monitored by The PL and EFL. Hull City partly meet these guidelines
through their Supporters Committee.
HCST are not aware the latest poll on Concessions was discussed
at the recent SC meeting. How can that be right?
7. We would like clarification on how the vote process will be
transparent.
How are votes collected?
Who is monitoring the process to ensure
impartiality?
Will the votes be fully published?
Will the club appoint an independent scrutiny
officer?
For much of last Saturday’s contest in Wales it looked like a typical end of season performance from a lethargic City side as they trailed 2-0. However goals from Jarrod Bowen and forgotten man Nouha Dicko meant City stole a point.
This Sunday the Tigers face Bristol City who need a win to keep their play off hopes alive. It may be the last chance to see Jarrod Bowen, Kamil Grosicki and numerous others in the Black and Amber before their expected departures in what is looking like a summer full of change…
Here’s your update from the trust this week…
Club Tributes to Peter Skipper City are planning a number of tributes to ex City player Peter ‘Skip’ Skipper at the Bristol City game on Sunday
Members of the Skipper family will be at the KCOM Stadium on Sunday, where many of Peter’s former team-mates will form a guard of honour in his memory ahead of a minute’s applause before kick-off.
A Book of Condolence has been opened by the club and the matchday programme will have a special cover.
More details can be found on the club’s website here.
The Trust Board congratulate the club on these wonderful gestures to a much-loved player.
“The Decade” Book Launch We can confirm that the launch of Richard Gardhams book will take place at Mr Chu’s, St Andrews Quay at 7:30 on Saturday 4th May.
The book, which concentrates on the unbelievable period of transformation at City from 2000 to 2010, contains contributions from ex-City staff and players, many of whom will be in attendance at the launch.
All profits from the sale of the book will go to support Dove House Hospice.
A Question and Answer session will be hosted by the venerable Brendan Smurthwaite.
The event is ‘walk-in’ but please contact Mr Chu’s directly if you wish to book a table for the buffet – but don’t hang about as this is likely to fill up fast.
Emmaus Portland Cup Sunday 30 June sees the Emmaus Portland Cup being played at Goals in Hull again.
Emmaus is a charity working with homeless people around the country, through local community properties, giving them a home, meaningful work in a social enterprise and an opportunity to get back on their feet again before getting their own place. More details of their work can be found here.
Once again the Trust will be providing sponsorship for the event as well as entering a team for the first time. Teams from Emmaus communities across the country will be competing, as well as a side from Aunt Bessie’s (the current holders) and View From The Allotment End (The North Ferriby FC fanzine).
This is a great opportunity to represent the Trust, play a bit of five-a-side football and learn about the work they do at Emmaus. We will be taking on not only sides on the pitch but also socialising at a barbeque back at the Hull Community premises down Lockwood Street after the football has finished.
We can field a team of up to 8 so if you are interested in taking part and playing in the tournament then please get in touch with Board member Peter Fleming in the coming weeks.
Ferriby Phoenix From the ashes of North Ferriby United has risen a new club – North Ferriby FC!
North Ferriby Football Club will play out of the Church Road ground next season and take the place of the now defunct North Ferriby United, who were liquidated last month due to unpaid debts.
The new club, led by former United chairman Les Hare with the backing of a number of high-profile local residents and businessmen, will begin life next season in the Northern Counties East League.
*** Stop Press ***
There is a lot of work to be done to tidy up the Church Road ground – can you spare some time this Saturday (4th May) to help? Contact them on Twitter for more details…
The club have also set up a Crowdfunder page for more long-term development of the ground and facilities. You can contribute here.
HCST Last Man Standing Competition City and Dicko accounted for one of the two casulaties this weekend, seven left…
If no single winner is declared this Sunday, then we’ll carry on with the play offs.
Remember, Championship teams only, and you can’t pick a team you have already selected.
HCST Board Meeting The Trust held a Board meeting on Monday 29th April at the William Gemmell.
The minutes of the meeting can be read here (along with all previous Board Meeting Minutes).
EFL / MIND Badges The EFL and MIND have launched a campaign entitled ‘On Your Side’ to raise awareness of mental health issues.
Part of this campaign includes the sale of ‘On Your Side’ badges in the colours of all the 72 EPL teams.
Hull City badges are still available and can be bought from the MIND on-Line Shop here.
HCST Policy Amendments As was noted at the AGM of the Trust, we are busy updating our rules from the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts 1965 – 78 under which it was incorporated to comply with the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 which it must now operate under. These changes are minor but necessary to be compliant.
The Trust accounts are currently unaudited and at the next AGM there will be a vote put to members giving them the choice of continuing with the accounts being unaudited for another year or appointing external auditors (at the Trust’s expense).
This will then become a standing motion at each AGM thereafter giving members an annual vote on the matter. The Trust will also make some changes such that the accounts fully comply with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities which represents best practice and make the Trust more professional in its activities.
Hull City Ladies The Tigresses complete their fixtures for the season with a home match against Nottingham Forest Ladies in what is effectively a play off for a respectable 9th place.
Kick off for the match on Sunday is 2pm at the Hull University Sports Ground on Inglemire Lane but its also the Ladies family fun day with the gates opening at 12.45pm.
Admission prices are also reduced to £2 for adults, (or just a quid if you’re wearing black & amber), with U-16’s getting in for free.
So if you don’t fancy the uncertainty of not knowing if you’re sat next to an excitable Brsitol City fan at the K.Com, then pop down to cheer on the Tigresses in what will be their final home game at this ground.
We’d like to pass on our congratulations to Rachel Gay and the team in what has been a very solid season overall and their first at this level in the Ladies game.
HCST’s Partners of the Week In this week’s Partner of the Week section, we have an in-depth look at two HCST partners – Dinostar – The Dinosaur Experience & The William Gemmell.
ONE CHILD ADMITTED FREE IF AN ACCOMPANYING ADULT SHOWS A MEMBERSHIP CARD
Dinostar is Hull’s interactive, hands on dinosaur museum. Highlights include Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus rex skulls, Triceratops bones you can touch and our Dinosaur Sound Box. Open every Sunday and school holidays, see web site for details.
The William Gemmell club on Anlaby Road is a welcome addition to our partnership scheme. As part of this arrangement, all HCST members will become affiliate members of the Gemmell, and the Trust will have a presence there on all Hull City home match days with membership applications and renewals as well as Trust merchandise available for purchase.
Merchandise Offer For this week’s offer, City / HCAFC scarves are £4. Buy yours from the storehere.
Stop the front page! HCST are looking for new contributors to our website.
These can be articles about football in general, all things Hull City or match reports. So if you’re a sports journalist in the making or just fancy giving it a go as a hobby please let us know – you don’t need to be a professional – all articles will be welcome. There’s no requirement to produce words every week or month, just as and when you are able to. If you are interested please email us here.
It was a disappointing Easter Monday for the Tigers as a poor performance allowed Sheffield Utd to stroll to a 3-0 victory. City were very disappointing and some of the defending was woeful.
The last away game of the season sees City travel to Wales to face Swansea City. Realistically neither team has anything to play for so it’s anyone’s guess whether both will go for it or if it will be a drab end of season affair. Safe journey to all travelling
Here’s your update from the trust this week…
Sheffield United Crowd Trouble After concerns expressed by our members and the wider Hull City fanbase, the Trust have contacted the Club regarding the crowd trouble at the Easter Monday game against Sheffield United.
A large number of Sheffield United fans had bought tickets in the Home areas, particularly in the North Stand and after David McGoldrick’s opener for the visitors on 10 minutes, their celibrations led to confrontation with the home fans.
We have asked the club/SMC to look at two main areas which concerned the fans..
How were the Sheffield United fans able to buy tickets in the away end?
Once these fans had been identified by home supporters, was the situation dealt with timely enough and adequately by the Stewards/Police?
We hope that the review by the Club/SMC will be made public as soon as possible & will address the fans concerns as stated above.
We understand the the FA have also opened an investigation into the events at the match.
Peter Skipper RIP On Tuesday we heard the sad news thet ex City player Peter ‘Skip’ Skipper had passed away aged just 61.
Peter, a Hull-born central defender who made 338 appearances for City in two spells during the 1980’s – including two promotions, was a great favourite amongst players & fans.
Phil Buckingham from the Hull Daily Mail has written an excellent tribute to him with quotes from many teammates and other ex-City players. You can read it here.
The Trust Board extend our condolences to Peter’s family in these difficult times.
HCST ‘Kids for a Quid’ One of the proposals passed at the recent AGM was that junior members will now only pay £1 for Membership.
Previously junior (non-voting) members had paid an annual fee £2, now it will be a ‘one-off’ payment of £1 for junior membership until they reach their 16th birthday
The aim of the proposal was to encourage more engagement with a supporter organisation connected to the club, to retain awareness and interest during a period when some families cannot afford to take children to home matches due to the club’s current pricing model that does not cater for concessionary age groups.
So, if you have children (or grandchildren) who aren’t junior members, or know of anyone who does, sign them up online here or alternatively download a paper application form here.
“The Decade” Book Launch We can confirm that the launch of Richard Gardhams book will take place at Mr Chu’s, St Andrews Quay at 7:30 on Saturday 4th May.
The book, which concentrates on the unbelievable period of transformation at City from 2000 to 2010, contains contributions from ex-City staff and players, many of whom will be in attendance at the launch.
All profits from the sale of the book will go to support Dove House Hospice.
A Question and Answer session will be hosted by the venerable Brendan Smurthwaite.
The event is ‘walk-in’ but please contact Mr Chu’s directly if you wish to book a table for the buffet – but don’t hang about as this is likely to fill up fast.
FSF Away Fans Survey 2018/19 The Football Supporters Federation (FSF) are running their annual survey of the experience of fans who attend away games.
The survey can be found here and should take only a few minutes to fill in.
We encourage all travelling fans to complete the survey to allow the FSF to measure the experience of the away fan. Remember you can fill it in for each away gameswhich you attend..
Hull City Ladies No game for the Tigresses last weekend as the scheduled game against Nottingham Forest Ladies was postponed.
The game has bee re-arranged for Sunday 5th May
As usual it’s a 2pm kick off time at the Hull University Sports Ground on Inglemire Lane.
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Merchandise Offer For this week’s offer, City / HCAFC scarves are £4. Buy yours from the storehere.
Stop the front page! HCST are looking for new contributors to our website.
These can be articles about football in general, all things Hull City or match reports. So if you’re a sports journalist in the making or just fancy giving it a go as a hobby please let us know – you don’t need to be a professional – all articles will be welcome. There’s no requirement to produce words every week or month, just as and when you are able to. If you are interested please email us here.
The Supporters Trust expresses its concern at the large number of opposition supporters in the home stands today & the impact on fans safety. We trust that the club will hold a thorough investigation into ticket sales & the security procedures following today’s events.
We are aware that many fans have expressed their concerns directly to the club via social media. We look forward to a swift response.
City’s faintest of faint play off hopes disappeared this weekend with a courageous defeat against West Brom. The Tigers led 2-1 in the second half thanks to two Todd Kane strikes but couldn’t hold on to take any points from the game.
Monday brings the visit of Sheffield Utd who are battling with Leeds Utd for the second automatic promotion spot. City now have nothing to play for however there may be a personal motivation for Nigel Adkins to deny his former employer a premier league promotion, although that would hand advantage to Leeds!
Here’s your update from the trust this week…
Hull City Members Event On Tuesday this week (16th) the club held a Members Event in the Kingston Suite at the KCOM stadium
Players Jarrod Bowen, Jackson Irvine & Jordy de Wijs and manager Nigel Adkins attended & the event was hosted by the excellent Rob Palmer.
The Trust would like to congratulate the club on a very well organised event and were glad to see the large number of children in attendance.
You can read more about the event on the City website here.
Local Blogger up for National Award HCST extends our contratulations to The Tigress editor Sam Shepherd who has been nominated for a national award.
Sam – known to many on Twitter as @FerribyShep – has been nominated in the category of “Best Women’s Football Content Creator” by the Football Blogging Awards for his work on the Hull City Ladies fans website. The presentation ceremony takes place on May 9th at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester
To see why Sam has been nominated, have a look at his work on The Tigress website here.
Details of how to vote can be found here here on the Football Blogging Awards website – remember you can vote online and via Twitter & Instagram. Voting closes at midnight on 21st April.
HCST ‘Kids for a Quid’ One of the proposals passed at the recent AGM was that junior members will now only pay £1 for Membership.
Previously junior (non-voting) members had paid an annual fee £2, now it will be a ‘one-off’ payment of £1 for junior membership until they reach their 16th birthday
The aim of the proposal was to encourage more engagement with a supporter organisation connected to the club, to retain awareness and interest during a period when some families cannot afford to take children to home matches due to the club’s current pricing model that does not cater for concessionary age groups.
So, if you have children (or grandchildren) who aren’t junior members, or know of anyone who does, sign them up online here or alternatively download a paper application form here.
“The Decade” Book Launch We can confirm that the launch of Richard Gardhams book will take place at Mr Chu’s, St Andrews Quay at 7:30 on Saturday 4th May.
The book, which concentrates on the unbelievable period of transformation at City from 2000 to 2010, contains contributions from ex-City staff and players, many of whom will be in attendance at the launch.
A Question and Answer session will be hosted by the venerable Brendan Smurthwaite.
Please contact Mr Chu’s directly to book your seats – but don’t hang about as this is likely to fill up fast.
HCST Last Man Standing Competition The tipsters are falling by the wayside after the two latest rounds of fixtures…
Only 10 of the 41 are now still in contention , with only 3 rounds remaining we could have a winner in very short order!
Remember, Championship teams only, and you can’t pick a team you have already selected.
Adam Coatham, the inaugural winner of LMS and has been sent a copy of ‘It is what It is’, the autobiography of Carlton Palmer courtesy of the publishers, Vertical Editions.
Adam also receives a 3 year Trust Membership.
EFL / MIND Badges The EFL and MIND have launched a campaign entitled ‘On Your Side’ to raise awareness of mental health issues.
Part of this campaign includes the sale of ‘On Your Side’ badges in the colours of all the 72 EPL teams.
Hull City badges are still available and can be bought from the MIND on-Line Shop here.
FSF Away Fans Survey 2018/19 The Football Supporters Federation (FSF) are running their annual survey of the experience of fans who attend away games.
The survey can be found here and should take only a few minutes to fill in.
We encourage all travelling fans to complete the survey to allow the FSF to measure the experience of the away fan. Remember you can fill it in for each away gameswhich you attend..
Hull City Ladies The Tigresses also suffered a loss away at Middlesbrough last weekend enduring a disappointing 0-3 defeat..
This Sunday, the Ladies play their final league game of the season in what is effectively a play-off for 9th place at home to Nottingham Forest who are just 1 place and 1 point below City in the table.
As usual it’s a 2pm kick off time at the Hull University Sports Ground on Inglemire Lane.
The weekend forecast looks good to get yourself down there with your membership card and enjoy a 25% discount on the admission price. (Kids go free……..it’s got to be better than a traffic jam on the way to Bridlington!!)
HCST’s Partners of the Week IIn this week’s Partner of the Week section, we have an in-focus look at two HCST partners – Hull & East Yorkshire Mind & Rob McFadyen Advanced Driving Instructor.
Hull and East Yorkshire Mind is a local mental health charity, working so that everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect.
The impact of mental illness can be devastating. Not only for those directly affected but also their families, friends, colleagues and loved ones.
Hull and East Yorkshire Mind helps people improve their mental health. They work with individuals to support them in a way that works for them- building confidence and social networks, helping people establish a safe place to live and call home, helping people to find hope and to recover.
They also work to prevent mental ill health through education and prevention work, and we campaign to challenge the stigma and discrimination that sometimes occurs with mental health problems.
Mind have linked with the English Football League to promote awareness about mental health, and HCST have partnered with the Hull and East Yorkshire branch to tie in with that.
More information about Hull and East Yorkshire Mind can be found on their website They are also active on Facebook & Twitter.
Our second partner of the week is Rob McFadyen Advanced Driving Instructor.
FIRST FIVE LESSONS FOR £65, THEN 10% OFF STANDARD LESSON RATES
Rob is an Independent Driving Instructor based in Hull. He prides himself on offering well structured, tailored lessons to suit the needs of the pupil, in a patient, friendly & punctual manner. As a lifelong City fan, Rob is proud to be a member & partner.
Merchandise Offer For this week’s offer, City / HCAFC scarves are £4. Buy yours from the storehere.
Stop the front page! HCST are looking for new contributors to our website.
These can be articles about football in general, all things Hull City or match reports. So if you’re a sports journalist in the making or just fancy giving it a go as a hobby please let us know – you don’t need to be a professional – all articles will be welcome. There’s no requirement to produce words every week or month, just as and when you are able to. If you are interested please email us here.
This City team is certainly making a good go of keeping in the play off race. Two games and two wins, both from behind, keeps the Tigers in the hunt for an unlikely top six finish. It is totally unexpected and may end this weekend but it has been a joy to see the team galvanised under Nigel Adkins who deserves huge credit.
The Tigers travel to out of sorts Middlesbrough this Saturday with the home team only one point above City in the league. A win could narrow the gap further however any other outcome would most certainly mean the challenge is over. City are more than capable of beating a Boro team which has been very poor on their own ground this season, amassing just 27 points from 20 matches.
Here’s your update from the trust this week…
5th Anniversary of #NoToHullTigers Wednesday this week (9th) marked the fifth anniversary of the Football Association rejecting the (first) attempt to change our name to Hull Tigers….
The attempt to change City’s name led to the formation of our predecessors City Till We Die who campaigned vigourously to prevent the change and produced a very professional sumission to the FA which we feel contributed greatly to the rejection decision.
Local Blogger up for National Award HCST extends our contratulations to The Tigress editor Sam Shepherd who has been nominated for a national award.
Sam – known to many on Twitter as @FerribyShep – has been nominated in the category of “Best Women’s Football Content Creator” by the Football Blogging Awards for his work on the Hull City Ladies fans website. The presentation ceremony takes place on May 9th at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester
To see why Sam has been nominated, have a look at his work on The Tigress website here.
Details of how to vote can be found here here on the Football Blogging Awards website – remember you can vote online and via Twitter & Instagram. Voting closes at midnight on 21st April.
HCST ‘Kids for a Quid’ One of the proposals passed at the recent AGM was that junior members will now only pay £1 for Membership.
Previously junior (non-voting) members had paid an annual fee £2, now it will be a ‘one-off’ payment of £1 for junior membership until they reach their 16th birthday
The aim of the proposal was to encourage more engagement with a supporter organisation connected to the club, to retain awareness and interest during a period when some families cannot afford to take children to home matches due to the club’s current pricing model that does not cater for concessionary age groups.
So, if you have children (or grandchildren) who aren’t junior members, or know of anyone who does, sign them up online here or alternatively download a paper application form here.
“The Decade” Book Launch We can confirm that the launch of Richard Gardhams book will take place at Mr Chu’s, St Andrews Quay at 7:30 on Saturday 4th May.
The book, which concentrates on the unbelievable period of transformation at City from 2000 to 2010, contains contributions from ex-City staff and players, many of whom will be in attendance at the launch.
A Question and Answer session will be hosted by the venerable Brendan Smurthwaite.
Please contact Mr Chu’s directly to book your seats – but don’t hang about as this is likely to fill up fast.
HCST Last Man Standing Competition We have a winner in the first round on the HCST Last Man Standing competition…
It came down to a final head to head between Alan Hemingway and Adam Coatham.
This week, Alan selected Bristol City, but was thwarted by an inury time equaliser for Wigan.
But fittingly, Adam chose Hull City, to become the new defending champion.
The next competition is alread underway, based on the midweek matches.
Late goals may have saved a few but that late Reading goal also accounted for 16 of the 41 entries, including the last winner, Adam Coatham. How the mighty have fallen..
Remember, Championship teams only, and you can’t pick a team you have already selected.
Easter Egg Appeal Local Homeless charity Emmaus Hull & East Riding are appealing for your help.
They are looking to collect 350 Easter eggs and present them to the school children at Clifton Primary School before Easter.
If they manage to exceed this amount, any remaining eggs will be donated to rough sleepers by their outreach team.
FSF Away Fans Survey 2018/19 The Football Supporters Federation (FSF) are running their annual survey of the experience of fans who attend away games.
The survey can be found here and should take only a few minutes to fill in.
We encourage all travelling fans to complete the survey to allow the FSF to measure the experience of the away fan. Remember you can fill it in for each away gameswhich you attend..
Hull City Ladies After a blank Sunday, the Tigresses once again match the men’s team this weekend with an away trip to Middlesbrough.
This will be the girls final away league game of the season and it could prove to be a tricky match with Boro sitting in 3rd place in the table.
There’s no pressure on City though as they look to consolidate their mid table position and look to end the season on a high.
HCST’s Partners of the Week In this week’s Partner of the Week section, we have an in-focus look at two HCST partners – Essence Holistics & introducing a NEW Partner The H Shop.
Our first partner of the week is Essence Holistics.
Situated at La Luna Wellbeing, 241 Chanterlands Avenue, Hull HU5 4DH.
Contact Corrine on 07809 214453 for an appointment (appointments necessary).
10% OFF ALL TREATMENTS FOR HCST MEMBERS
Essence Holistics offers a wide range of relaxing therapies at competitive prices. Visit our lovely therapy room and relax with Aromatherapy, Swedish Massage, Indian Head Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Reflexology and Luxury Holistic Facials. At Essence Holistics we only use high quality products and never use pre-blended oils. Check out our Facebook page for monthly deals. We are registered with the Guild of Holistic Therapists. We look forward to seeing you.
The ‘H’ Shop is located on the corner of Hawthorn Avenue and Anlaby Road and has a wide range of unique and customisable gifts, homemade candles, incense sticks, oil burners and much more.
Hull City Supporters Trust members are entitled to a 15% discount off retail prices on production of your membership card.
So when it comes to that special gift for a family member of friend, call in to see Dave and his staff to find something to suit all tastes.
Merchandise Offer For this week’s offer, City / HCAFC scarves are £4. Buy yours from the storehere.
Stop the front page! HCST are looking for new contributors to our website.
These can be articles about football in general, all things Hull City or match reports. So if you’re a sports journalist in the making or just fancy giving it a go as a hobby please let us know – you don’t need to be a professional – all articles will be welcome. There’s no requirement to produce words every week or month, just as and when you are able to. If you are interested please email us here.
City thankfully ended their poor away form with a steady 2-0 victory against bottom side Ipswich Town last Saturday. Kamil Grosicki bagged a brace and the winning margin could have been greater although Ipswich did have a few moments to worry the Tigers’ back line.
Up next is a very winnable home double header with Reading (Saturday) and Wigan (Wednesday) visiting the KCOM. Two wins and City will most likely move within touching distance of the play offs before a more tough run of fixtures against sides at the right end of the table. Sadly, there’s also the potential for another record low crowd being registered during the upcoming matches with neither game expected to attract much of an away following or the imagination of the Hull public.
Here’s your update from the trust this week…
FSF Statement on Hull City The Football Supporters Federation have issued a statement regarding the recent Hull City Supporters Committee meeting minutes…
Local Blogger up for National Award HCST extends our contratulations to The Tigress editor Sam Shepherd who has been nominated for a national award.
Sam – known to many on Twitter as @FerribyShep – has been nominated in the category of “Best Women’s Football Content Creator” by the Football Blogging Awards for his work on the Hull City Ladies fans website. The presentation ceremony takes place on May 9th at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester
To see why Sam has been nominated, have a look at his work on The Tigress website here.
Details of how to vote can be found here here on the Football Blogging Awards website – remember you can vote online and via Twitter & Instagram. Voting closes at midnight on 21st April.
HCST ‘Kids for a Quid’ One of the proposals passed at the recent AGM was that junior members will now only pay £1 for Membership.
Previously junior (non-voting) members had paid an annual fee £2, now it will be a ‘one-off’ payment of £1 for junior membership until they reach their 16th birthday
The aim of the proposal was to encourage more engagement with a supporter organisation connected to the club, to retain awareness and interest during a period when some families cannot afford to take children to home matches due to the club’s current pricing model that does not cater for concessionary age groups.
So, if you have children (or grandchildren) who aren’t junior members, or know of anyone who does, sign them up online here or alternatively download a paper application form here.
“The Decade” Book Launch We can confirm that the launch of Richard Gardhams book will take place at Mr Chu’s, St Andrews Quay at 7:30 on Saturday 4th May.
The book, which concentrates on the unbelievable period of transformation at City from 2000 to 2010, contains contributions from ex-City staff and players, many of whom withh be in attendance at the launch.
A Question and Answer session will be hosted by the venerable Brendan Smurthwaite.
Please contact Mr Chu’s directly to book your seats – but don’t hang about as this is likely to fill up fast.
Easter Egg Appeal Local Homeless charity Emmaus Hull & East Riding are appealing for your help.
They are looking to collect 350 Easter eggs and present them to the school children at Clifton Primary School before Easter.
If they manage to exceed this amount, any remaining eggs will be donated to rough sleepers by their outreach team.
HCST Last Man Standing Competition Week 11 and still the last 2 are standing…
Adam and Alan were both successful with their choices of Crystal Palace & Man City respectively.
** STOP PRESS** – We can reveal that this weeks picks are Bristol City and (drum roll ) HULL CITY! (but we are not going to tell you who has chosen whom)
Remember for there to be a winner, there has to be a Last Man Standing.
If both fail at the last hurdle, everyone is back in.
We may need to include non Saturday fixtures (eg Easter, final Sunday etc) and may well make the rules slightly harder (Championship games only).
Watch out for an email when we get to that stage. Be good for you all to take part again.
If you didn’t sign up this time – don’t worry, we will be running another competition after this one finishes!.
FSF Away Fans Survey 2018/19 The Football Supporters Federation (FSF) are running their annual survey of the experience of fans who attend away games.
The survey can be found here and should take only a few minutes to fill in.
We encourage all travelling fans to complete the survey to allow the FSF to measure the experience of the away fan. Remember you can fill it in for each away gameswhich you attend..
Hull City Ladies Last Sunday the Tigresses went down to a disappointing 4-2 away defeat to Sheffield Ladies.
This result means they cannot finish higher than their current 9th position in their first season in the FA WPL Premier Division.
There’s no fixture for our Ladies this weekend as the teams around them play their game in hand.
HCST’s Partners of the Week In this week’s Partner of the Week section, we have an in-focus look at two NEW HCST partners – Zip Dry Cleaners & Hull City Ladies.
Our first partner of the week is Zip Dry Cleaners.
We are new to the High Street but have been doing dry cleaning and laundry in the City for over 30 years.
We use innovative and UK first technology to clean and make clothes look and feel their best. Our approach is much more environmentally friendly than traditional dry cleaners and it also cleans better.
Our services include: dry cleaning, laundry, duvets, curtains, leathers and suede as well asironing services. We also work with local businesses doing serviced apartments, overalls, hairdressers and hotels. We also special in Wedding dresses, being the only professional dry cleaners to do them on site.
Based on 486 Anlaby Road, opposite Malt Shovel pub, many City fans will walk past us going to a game.
HCST members who flash their membership cards will receive 20% off! That makes Dry cleaning your suit only £8!
HCST Business Partners who need laundry or dry-cleaning services will receive a special business rate of 10% OFF our normal competitive commercial rate. We also do a complimentary 1 st service so you can try us before you decide to go with us.
Our website is under construction but please visit our Facebook page, like and share.
Our second partner of the week is Hull City Ladies.
Hull City Ladies offer a generous 20% off match admission for HCST members, as well as free admission for all children.
The ladies play their home games at the Hull University Sports Ground on Inglemire Lane, usually kicking off at 2pm.
Fixtures and more details are available on their website.
Merchandise Offer For this week’s offer, City / HCAFC scarves are £4. Buy yours from the storehere.
Stop the front page! HCST are looking for new contributors to our website.
These can be articles about football in general, all things Hull City or match reports. So if you’re a sports journalist in the making or just fancy giving it a go as a hobby please let us know – you don’t need to be a professional – all articles will be welcome. There’s no requirement to produce words every week or month, just as and when you are able to. If you are interested please email us here.
In June 2018 the FSF was invited by Hull City to discuss the club’s membership scheme, which replaced the traditional season ticket model.
In addition to this issue the subject of the club’s fractious relationship with our affiliate Hull City Supporters’ Trust (HCST) was also covered, as we attempted to help rebuild relations between the club and its fans.
While we received a friendly welcome from vice chairman Ehab Allam it was clear that the club was not willing to change its ticketing policy.
On Monday it was brought to our attention that the club’s Supporters’ Committee minutesreferenced this meeting and ascribed views to the FSF to which we do not subscribe. Despite requests to remove or alter these references the club has refused to do so.
In June’s meeting with the club we made clear that we would not endorse the club’s approach to concessions.
We believe a club’s ticketing policy should be set in consultation with its supporters and that should include a supporters’ trust where one exists. In addition we feel concessionary prices must be respected in order to make football as affordable and accessible as possible.
We will always be available to work with clubs and supporters to improve all aspects of matchdays for home and away fans and we remain open to further dialogue with Hull City.
