Valiants. Yesterday’s news that the Government has ‘paused’ plans to allow fans to return to sporting stadia is the news we had all been dreading.

For months now we have been planning to welcome supporters back to Vale Park – albeit in restricted numbers due to Covid-19.

We have planned for ‘test games’ and, thanks to the fact that we have such a large venue, worked out how we would accommodate all our 4,000+ Season Ticket holders in socially-distanced seating.

But yesterday’s Government announcement has postponed your homecoming and everyone at the club is hugely disappointed and frustrated.

Port Vale, like all EFL clubs, faces significant financial challenges as a result of the loss of revenue because supporters are currently not allowed to attend matches.

We were encouraged to hear from the Prime Minister that the Chancellor and Culture Secretary are to have conversations about how the Government could support clubs who are being deprived of income. This would be most welcome.

In the meantime, on behalf of everyone at your club, I want to say a huge thank-you to every single one of our fans who has continued to support us through these unprecedented times.

I want to thank those of you who bought Season Tickets and match passes – knowing full well that, at present, you are unable to attend matches at Vale Park.

I want to thank everyone who has bought a home, away or third kit – taking us to record sales figures.

I want to thank everyone who has paid a subscription or bought EFL iFollow match passes to watch Vale games, home and away, which your club benefits from financially.

I want to thank our commercial partners, sponsors, hospitality box holders, Presidents’ and Vice Presidents’ seat holders and volunteers.

Port Vale is a family. A community. The incredible support from you all at this time is absolutely vital in keep the club healthy and focused. It is appreciated by everyone working at your club.

Rest assured that our work continues – on and off the field – as we endeavour to make this a campaign and a year to be proud of, and build on the progress made last season.

We will keep you informed of all the positive news and developments and try to add value for you wherever possible.

We miss you all and can’t wait to see you back at Vale Park, cheering on the team in black and white.  

UTV!