Salford City fans scale 50m crane to beat 'outdated' stadium alcohol ban

Salford City Fans enjoyed a legal drink while watching Saturday's game against Chesterfield FC . A select group of lucky football fans were hoisted an impressive 50 metres above ground by a crane to watch Saturday's match between Salford City FC and Chesterfield FC.

As it stands, fans at Premier League , Championship, League One and League Two matches are forbidden from having a drink 'in sight of the pitch,' but they can freely drink in stadium bars. The ban has been in place since 1985 under the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol) Act, but many supporters argue that this four-decade-old rule is now outdated.

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During the 2-0 game against Chesterfield, two fortunate Salford City fans were given the unique chance to legally enjoy a drink whilst watching the match, courtesy of a one-off elevated fan zone provided by Fireball Whisky.

The stunt was a response to a survey of 2,000 football fans, which suggested that half of those surveyed believe it's about time to lift the ban on drinking. Fans have labelled the rule as 'flawed' (16%), 'inconvenient' (22%), and even 'disruptive' (12%).

A significant 25% argue that the ban encourages fans to overindulge before kick-off since they can't enjoy a drink at their seat.

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Lorenzo Farronato, spokesperson for Fireball, said: " Football fans deserve fun. The rules say no alcohol in view of the pitch - so we gave fans a better view alongside a drink.

"The hottest seat in football soared 50 metres high and delivered 90 minutes of pure mischief."

A recent study revealed that a staggering 71% of footie fans enjoy a pint while watching the match, with only a small 8% choosing to abstain completely.

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Two-thirds of those polled via OnePoll.com admitted that sharing a pint with their mates is an essential part of their football matchday experience.

Social media content creators Tom Garratt and Tom Nestor, known for their pursuit of football's most outrageous experiences, also joined the high-flying adventure, adding this escapade to their list of unforgettable away days.

Tom Garratt said: "The hottest seat isn't just a stunt; it's a reminder that football can be fun, inclusive and a bit rebellious. Fans shouldn't feel like they're just there to watch; they should feel part of something bigger - part of a community, a culture, and a day to remember.

Tom Nestor added: "Football should be about enjoying yourself; whether that's singing with your mates, celebrating a goal, or making memories that last.