Last Thursday’s Open Training Session at Gigg Lane was a huge success with over 500 local children attending.
The queues began around 90 minutes before gates opened with every child looking to get their hands on one of the 100 free season tickets available. At the time the gates opened, the queue stretched the length of the car park from the Cemetery End entrance towards the South Stand.
The free season tickets were like gold dust, and most were snapped up within minutes of the start of the session.
Andy Welsh’s squad trained for around an hour under the evening sun, following the session the players took photos and signed autographs with fans.
Our Women’s first team were also in attendance, they too had photos and gave autographs in the crowd.
A number of raffle prizes including replica shirts and matchday mascot packages were given out at the end of the training session.
Football Board Chair, Marcel de Matas said: “The open training session, exceeded expectations, with 500 children in attendance alongside their parents, many visiting Gigg Lane for the first time. There was a real buzz about the ground, with children eager to interact with the players and obtain signed shirts and footballs.
“This event truly exemplified the excitement and enthusiasm for the return of football to Gigg Lane, and hopefully shows the potential interest from young people in watching their local team.
“It’s now critical that we build upon these strong foundations, ensuring that we continue to engage the wider Bury community, whilst growing a fan base fit for the future.”
