Watch the Latics for FREE

Last updated : 22 January 2004 By Dave Moore

Athletic’s new investors have unveiled their plan to fill Boundary Park on Celebration Sunday - FREE ADMISSION. The home match with Grimsby Town will allow free entry for all, irrespective of age, in this one off deal and it is hoped that all 13,500 seats will be filled. This is a wonderful gesture and a teriffic plan to start attracting the next generation of fans.

A carnival atmosphere is anticipated with music, dance, entertainment and a cavalcade of former players and managers being featured. New owner Simon Blitz said, “Latics supporters have been through some very difficult times in which their club nearly went into extinction. Furthermore they remained loyal to the Club and contributed in our ongoing fight for survival. To return the compliment to fans and celebrate the dawn of a new era we are offering free entry to all to Boundary Park and the opportunity to join in the day’s festivities. We are hoping for a turnout that the town can be proud of.”

The entertainment will begin outside the ground before the gates open and a penalty shoot out competition is being organised on the training pitch along with face painting. As the new owners are introduced to the crowd at half time there will be a ceremonious unfurling of a Latics flag from one of the stands. The gates will open at 1:45pm. with the entertainment kicking off an hour earlier.