Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.
Re Hillsborough today, I commend James Lawton (who was there on the day) and Simon Kelner to you. Simon explains how it was Hillsborough (and Heysel) that highlighted the need for state intervention in health and safety – easy as it is to ridicule today.
It is difficult, but important, for younger fans who attend matches today to fully comprehend the culture that pervaded football grounds back then.
My early experiences were at that bastion of mediocrity, Selhurst Park, home to Crystal Palace FC. But the fan experience was universal. Standing on the vast Holmesdale End terrace, we shared the exhilaration, joy, agony, extreme heat, cold and soakings that came with being part of a giant swaying throng, exposed to all elements.
One unforgettable night in 1979 I was one of 51,801 sardined into a stadium with a capacity of much fewer to see Terry Venables' Eagles soar into Division 1 by beating Burnley. It was fantastic and scary in equal measure. Well, almost. I was a teen. Hillsborough and Heysel were yet to happen. It was great!
But I was also there when people behind me literally peed down the terraces; when a fat Spurs fan co-ordinated their invasion of "our" end; when that happened against Arsenal, Chelsea… It was terrifying! The seated capacity is now 26,000. The football and the refreshments are still awful, but fans sit down, and pee in the toilets. These days I go to Craven Cottage with my daughter. It is exciting, fun and – above all – safe for all the family. As it should be. Let no one ever tell you that the bad old days were better.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments