I AM writing in response to the article published in your paper and online on Tuesday, July 25, entitled “Why first-time buyers could not get tickets for big Bolton Wanderers matches at the Macron”

I felt it important to clarify Bolton Wanderers’ position on the matter and to ensure that your readers are fully aware of the methodology behind this policy.

We have a duty of care to ensure that all supporters – both Bolton Wanderers fans and visiting fans – watch each match in an enjoyable and safe manner.

It is therefore imperative that supporters observe the game in the relevant sections of the ground. For example, Bolton Wanderers fans in the home sections of the ground and visiting fans in the away end.

The game in question, which the gentleman attempted to purchase tickets for, was the Bolton Wanderers v Leeds United, Sky Bet Championship fixture on Sunday, August 6.

This fixture is in high demand for Leeds United who have a reputation of taking a big following of supporters to away games. They received an allocation of 4,800 tickets which have been sold.

In order to ensure that no Leeds United supporters purchase tickets in the home areas of the ground, the club implemented, as it has done for many seasons for similar fixtures, a ‘previous booking history’ policy to minimise the risk of visiting supporters purchasing tickets in the home sections of the ground.

In your article, the gentleman mentioned that he was purchasing a ticket for his ex-partner who is a Leeds United supporter, which is against the terms and conditions of entry.

I would like to reiterate that this policy is in place to ensure the enjoyment and safety of everybody attending a fixture at Macron Stadium.

Paul Holliday

Head of Marketing and Communications, BWFC