Premier League clubs make disabled fans pledge

Disabled football fans have had a long struggle to attain what they consider acceptable standards across top-level football grounds, but a major breakthrough has now been made.

All 20 Premier League clubs have committed to delivering accessible stadia standards by August 2017, in a move that has pleased campaign group Level Playing Field. Measures to be taken include the appointment of a Disability Access Officer by all clubs, as well as ensuring a significant number of wheelchair bays are located in away stands (10% of the total home provision). Relevant steward training, websites, ticketing policies and parking will also come under closer scrutiny as part of the new agreement. 'Everyone at Level Playing Field is totally delighted by tonight’s news. It has been a very long time coming (more than 14 years) but we wholeheartedly welcome this announcement from the Premier League and its clubs,' the group said in a statement. 'Today is a very good day for disabled football fans and for the Premier League. It is a day to remember with some pride and with many thanks to everyone involved in making this happen.'