The Hartlepool Mail reported today that there will be no formal theme for the club’s traditional fancy dress day this year. Hartlepool travel to Stockport County’s Edgeley Park on Monday 8th May for their last game of the season, which would normally have involved fans dressing up, but the supporters’ group Hart of Our Club 1908 today confirmed that it wouldn’t be going ahead this year.
John Pearson, a trustee of Hart of Our Club 1908, speaking to The Hartlepool Mail, denied claims that the lack of fancy dress was down to relegation: “It’s just the logistics with the early kick off and the ticketing situation…there’s no reason why we won’t be back next season.” Pearson confirmed that fancy dress days have coincided with relegation previously, with no impact, instead citing logistics as the main influencing factor. Edgeley Park, home of Stockport County, was built in 1891 has an official capacity of 10,841. The Hartlepool allocation was 900, which although within the rules for EFL allocations was fewer than Stockport had made available to travelling fans at other games this season, a move that was heavily criticised by Poolies, and meant that the loyalty scheme was applied to ticket purchasing, which was still over subscribed, and on sale late to fans, reducing planning time for costumes. The allocation sees all 900 tickets in the covered Together Stand, whilst the normal Railway End away section has been sold to home fans for the third time this season.
Hartlepool vs Stockport
For some Hartlepool fans there is no love lost with Stockport County, who welcomed former Pools Manager Dave Challinor to the role in 2021. His first game against Hartlepool after leaving, in December 2022, resulted in a 5-0 away win for the Hatters, and Pools are obviously keen to avoid another such loss, especially with the game televised live on Sky Sports. They may well be more sympathetic towards Challinor and the reasons for his departure in light of comments made by current owner Raj Singh. The move of Connor Jennings from Stockport to Hartlepool in January has also gone some way to mending a rift, with Stockport fans delighted with the success he’s enjoyed as a Hartlepool player, and fans and players alike will be looking forward to seeing him back in action at Edgeley Park.
What do fans think?
https://twitter.com/benmcmorris03/status/1653149693994586114?s=20
Although it’s clear from Pearson’s comments that the decision-making has little to do with Hartlepool’s performance and ultimate relegation this season, it’s clear that the frivolity of fancy dress day was a bit of a juxtaposition in tone, and some will be relieved that it’s not taking place. It may be that some groups still decide to take part and choose their own theme, and enjoy a light-hearted side to a sad day in the history of Hartlepool United.
