CLUB STATEMENT: MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE & SECURITY MEASURES

Over the last week or so, supporters have shared feedback about the matchday experience and the visibility of security measures at the ground. We want to thank everyone who has taken the time to do so. As a supporter‑owned club, your views matter, and we are listening.

Firstly, as a Board we offer an unreserved apology for the distress caused. It was never our intention to create frustration or discomfort for anyone – be they supporters, families or young fans alike.

Our objective was to meet our duty of care obligations and prepare for evolving legal requirements. However, we recognise that some of the measures introduced - particularly at what would normally be regarded as lower‑risk fixtures - have been disproportionate and have affected the atmosphere that makes Merthyr Town FC such a welcoming and community‑focused club.

Over the weekend, Board members were in communication agreeing actions to address the points raised. Subsequently, and following review and comment by a number of supporters, we can confirm the club will now be taking the following steps:

· A proportionate, risk‑based approach.

Security levels will be scaled according to the profile of each fixture. In particular, lower‑risk games will see reduced stewarding and a lighter‑touch approach. This will start with our final home game of the regular season against Fylde.

· Appropriate security staffing
We are committed to restoring the enjoyable, relaxed matchday environment that supporters expect, while maintaining safety for everyone. We are taking a hard look at the advice we received to ensure it truly fits a club of our size and heritage to ensure that any recommendations we act upon are independent, proportionate and in the club’s best interests.

· Clearer access arrangements
Entrances will remain open in line with published kick‑off times, and we will ensure that late arrivals - especially season ticket holders - can enter the ground without issue.

· Safeguarding clarity
We need to re-establish our commitment to ensuring a positive family experience on matchdays - Merthyr Town FC must be family-friendly and a place where our younger fans feel at home. We will work with our matchday team to ensure that all safety checks are handled with the sensitivity and care families should expect, making sure every young supporter feels comfortable and welcomed from the moment they reach the turnstiles.

· Improved communication
We will try our best to communicate decisions and rationale proactively, avoid reactive or unhelpful language, and provide clearer updates where needed.

· Supporter engagement
We plan to arrange a forum over the closed season to discuss these changes, answer questions and rebuild the collaborative approach that defines our club.

· In summary
Whilst we aim to action a number of these points from our next home game, the specific details and ongoing protocols will need to be developed during the coming weeks - and no doubt over the summer period - to ensure we are match fit for the start of next season and beyond.

Please be assured we remain fully committed to ensuring that Merthyr Town FC is both safe and welcoming, and that our approach reflects the values of a supporter‑owned club. It is You - the supporters - who make our club what it is.

Thank you for your patience, honesty and ongoing support.

#UTT

Merthyr Town FC Board