Newcastle United have announced that our Carabao Cup clash with Bournemouth has now been moved forward 24 hours due to a planned NHS strike.
The fourth round tie was due to take place on Wednesday, 21st December at 7.45pm, however it will now take place at the same time on Tuesday, 20th December.
The strike will impact the North East Ambulance Service – something the club has relied on for ambulances and paramedics for several years – meaning the game can no longer go ahead on the original date.
With some fans already booking travel and accommodation, many Mags on social media have vented their frustration at the late change – although it seems the club’s hands are tied now as NHS strike has been confirmed following continued neglect from the government.
Official Newcastle United announcement on Monday 12th December:
Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup fourth round tie with Bournemouth has been brought forward by 24 hours due to planned NHS strike action on Wednesday, 21st December.
United had been set to face the Cherries at St. James’ Park a week on Wednesday but due to the planned action – which affects North East Ambulance Service, the club’s long-standing provider of ambulances, paramedics and match command – the game will now be played a day earlier on Tuesday, 20th December with kick-off set for 7:45pm.
The planned strike action has significant safety implications on the club’s matchday medical provisions.
Local authority have informed the club that even if private ambulance service provision was secured for the fixture, medical and safety protocols – including the major incident plan and the spectator safety medical plan – would need to be reviewed and redrafted with any new medical provider and presented to the Safety Advisory Group for approval. This process would be unlikely to be completed satisfactorily within the timeframe available.
In order to effectively plan and resource for the safety of all supporters attending the fixture, and to give fans of both clubs as much notice as possible of the change in circumstances, the decision has been made to move the game to Tuesday night. All tickets purchased for the match will still be valid.
Further details regarding ticket refunds will be confirmed in due course.
