Oyston Makes South Stand Pledge

In an interview with the Blackpool Gazette, Pool chairman Karl Oyston has declared that the Jimmy Armfield South Stand will be opened in October.

'Mid to late October is the latest finishing date we've got regards the south stand,' said Oyston.

'It is price sensitive rather than programme sensitive but having said that I don't think there is going to be any benefit now to delay it in order to hold out for better prices.

'I think we are far enough on with letting the various packages that we can effectively obtain the best rate without further delay.

'So it's full steam ahead really with it now and it's going OK.

'The ground workers are doing very well and doing a good job, and the steel is ordered.

'If there are any further delays or problems I'll let people know, but the current programme is mid to late October. That is looking like a viable one.'

Of course, knowing Oyston, the chances of further delays not occurring are slimmer than seeing pigs fly...

He goes on to add that 'From a perception or enthusiasm point of view, by the time we come back from pre-season the stand will be there for everyone to see. It will be physically there and I think that will be a big thing.

'I know one or two people are getting a bit edgy but believe it or not, it is going OK.

'Steel should be on site shortly and that soon goes up as people will remember from when we built the first two stands.

'By pre-season the stands will be there for all to see, but obviously there will still be a lot of finishing off to do.'

Jimmy Armfield will then open the stand before a home league game.

'There will be a real lump in the throat when the stand opens and Jimmy is there to take part and see it all happen,' added the chairman.

'We'll make a big deal of it because he more than deserves every accolade that anyone can give him.'

No doubt Oyston will be praying that Newcastle United do not visit Bloomfield Road before October, especially given that only around 3,000 season tickets have been sold to date despite discounts for existing STH's, although sales have rapidly increased since the appointment of Ian Holloway.

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