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Latest Shakers News and Articles
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Bury FC is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and well‑managed environment for all supporters. Following guidance from national governing bodies and stadium safety specialists, the club is introducing an updated policy regarding junior attendance at matches at the Salford Van Hire Gigg Lane Stadium with effect from 21 July 2026.
Across the professional game, safeguarding standards have been strengthened to reflect societal change. The EFL already requires all persons under the age of 16 to be accompanied by an adult and this summer the National League (Steps 1 and 2 of the non-league system) has introduced a compulsory policy requiring all persons under the age of 14 to be accompanied by an adult ahead of the commencement of the 2026-2027 season.
Although Bury FC competes at Step 3 of the non-league system, we have been advised by various authorities, taken input from the Safety Advisory Group and our Ground Safety Officer to adopt the same approach as that now applicable to Steps 1 and 2. This recommendation is based on the size and density of our attendances, the average home attendance for the 2025-2026 season having exceeded that of every club competing in National League North, the scale and layout of the stadium and the need to maintain consistent safeguarding standards in line with national football policy.
As most of you know, Bury FC is the exception to the rule when it comes to supporter numbers in non‑league football. Attendances being significantly higher than the average for Step 3 brings an increased responsibility to ensure that every supporter, and especially our youngest, is kept safe at all times. There can be no scope for ignorance or complacency where safety is concerned. It is of absolute paramount importance in our operation and should we progress to a higher level the policies relating to attendance of junior supporters will be formally imposed on us in any event. Taking the advice of the specialists now is the responsible and proactive approach.
This is not something that we can simply ignore. The club and its directors have a legal responsibility to provide a safe environment for everyone who enters the stadium and implementing this policy will ensure that we continue to meet the highest standards of safeguarding and stadium safety. It is important to emphasise that this is the reason for introducing the policy. It is not a reaction to specific incidents of misconduct or the behaviour of our younger supporters generally.
Having said this, and after considering supporter feedback, we do feel that we are able to draw a distinction between weekend afternoon fixtures and midweek evening fixtures. On that basis, all persons under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a responsible adult (over 18) when attending midweek evening fixtures with effect from the pre-season friendly against Wigan Athletic on 21 July 2026. However, in terms of weekend fixtures during the 2026-2027 season, we will continue with the current policy, which is, persons under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult (over 18).
In terms of weekend afternoon fixtures, the position will be monitored during the 2026-2027 season and it should not be assumed that the same policy will remain for the 2027-2028 season and beyond. In fact, as alluded to above, should we achieve a third successive promotion, we will be required to comply with the National League policy in any event.
To clarify, this policy is designed solely to protect children, support families and uphold the highest standards of stadium safety. We appreciate the co-operation of all supporters as we implement this important measure and continue to make the Salford Van Hire Gigg Lane Stadium a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.
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The Shakers will kick off the season on Saturday, 8th August, with an away trip to Redcar Athletic followed by two home games within the opening week against Curzon Ashton and Warrington Rylands.
Key Fixtures
Opening Day: Redcar Athletic away, Saturday 8th August.
August Bank Holiday: Hyde United away, Monday 31st August
Boxing Day: FC United of Manchester away, Saturday 26th December
Furthest Away Day: Workington AFC, Saturday 10th April
Easter Monday: FC United of Manchester home, Monday 29th March
Final Day of the Season: Bamber Bridge home, Saturday 17th April
Speaking on the announcement, manager Anthony Johnson said:
“The fixture release is always an exciting moment because it makes the new season feel real.
We know there will be tough tests throughout the campaign, but that’s exactly what we’re looking forward to. We’ll prepare properly, take each game as it comes and make sure we’re ready to represent this football club with pride every time we step onto the pitch. We can’t wait to get started and see everyone back at Gigg Lane.”
Our fixtures page will be updated in due course. A calendar sync for the 2026/27 season will also be available soon, so fans can easily keep track of every match on any device.
All fixtures are subject to change.
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Over the first two weeks, participants have taken part in gentle chair-based exercise, strength and balance activities, and interactive nutrition workshops. It’s been great to see everyone encouraging one another, sharing experiences, and growing in confidence each week. Many participants have commented on how welcoming and enjoyable the sessions are, and they’re already looking forward to coming back each Tuesday.
Good news – we now have more spaces available!
The programme is designed to help people aged 50+ become more active, improve their confidence, and support long-term heart health. The fully funded programme runs for 15 weeks, so there’s still plenty of time to join and benefit from everything on offer.
If you or someone you know is aged 50 or over, lives in Bury East or Bury West, and would like to improve their health in a friendly and supportive environment, we’d love to welcome you.
Hannah Brindle, Community Development Officer, said:
Sessions take place every Tuesday from 10.00am–11.00am at Gigg Lane, home of Bury FC
To find out more or to sign up, visit: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/kxznsqfdQb?origin=lprLink
Don’t worry if you’ve missed the first couple of sessions – there’s still time to get involved and start your Healthy Hearts journey with us!
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The 20-year-old midfielder joins the Shakers after an impressive spell with Padiham, where he played a key role in the club’s successful promotion-winning campaign to the Northern Premier League West Division.
Comfortable anywhere across midfield, Machell arrives at Gigg Lane with plenty of potential and valuable experience despite his young age. He also made history during his time at Padiham by becoming the club’s first-ever contracted player, underlining the faith shown in his ability and development.
Freddie’s ambition, versatility and desire to continue progressing make him an exciting addition to the Emerging Talent Group.
As part of his continued development, Freddie will join Clitheroe FC on loan until January 2027, allowing him to gain further first-team experience and continue his progression in the game.
Everyone at Bury FC would like to welcome Freddie to the club and wish him every success during his loan spell.
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