Liverpool supporters’ group Spirit of Shankly have announced the start of the More Than a Stadium initiative to “show solidarity” with the Anfield community.
The Reds have called Anfield home since their inception in 1892, and in 2016 redevelopment work was completed on the Main Stand, raising the capacity to 54,074.
There are further plans to expand the Anfield Road end, while improvements are ongoing both in and out of the stadium to provide better facilities for supporters on matchdays.
A growing concern for those living in the area, amplified by the increase in footfall, are the conditions on these days, with parking, litter and behaviour in the areas outside their homes all common issues.
Spirit of Shankly (SOS) have now introduced More Than a Stadium, an initiative designed to support those living in Anfield and Everton and ensure that “the respect and support shown in the stadium to our team is reciprocated to those in our local community.”
Also backed by Spion Kop 1906, Kop Outs and Fans Supporting Foodbanks, this comes following a neighbourhood group meeting.
It was determined that a supporter-led approach is “far more effective” than any middle man between club and community.
“We have the opportunity to start a grassroots, supporter action group to help with these issues,” SOS committee member Ian Byrne explained.
“All we ask is that all supporters remember the Anfield/Everton area is not just home to their team, but home to many people, some matchgoers themselves, and businesses, who are equally as important to the fabric of our area and city as any player in red.
“SOS believe it is fundamental that the respect and support shown in the stadium to our team is reciprocated to those in our local community.
“As an Anfield resident I am delighted that we and other supporter groups have shown solidarity with our communities. As always unity is strength.”
This is an excellent cause that serves as a reminder that while for many Anfield is the home of Liverpool FC, it is also home to many others.
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