West Ham United have launched a variety of initiatives aimed at making the experience of being an away fan as positive as possible.
With the assistance of the Premier League Away Fans' Fund, West Ham are looking at a host of offers, incentives and actions exclusively aimed at travelling supporters, including affordable tickets, reduced-price coach travel and enhanced matchday experiences.
West Ham United are delighted to announce that the initiatives include the commitment to six Kids for a Quid fixtures available to visiting supporters during the 2013/14 season.
West Ham will be investigating reciprocal ticketing arrangements with other Barclays Premier League clubs, as well as the significant benefits of reduced booking fees, ticket prices and coach travel for Season Ticket holders and members. The Club will also look to increase the number of coaches running to away games where public transport is an issue, while fans on board will enjoy bespoke content to improve their in-journey experience, including West Ham-oriented footage on on-board televisions.
On all official coaches and on arrival at selected away grounds, the Claret and Blue Army will be welcomed by familiar and friendly faces in the shape of Boleyn Ground stewards, who also travel to assist with crowd management. Away fans can also find information of how to secure their seat at the Academy of Football in specially-created newspaper adverts that include their own club's Ticket Office contact details.
The Club have also introduced information packs and guidance for visiting supporters ahead of their visit, while away club-specific branding and signage has been installed in the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand concourse to promote a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
To ensure the visiting fan experience continues to improve, West Ham will send a focus group of supporters to away grounds to research and make recommendations, many of which have been acted on by the Club.
The Hammers are committed to ensuring their own supporters enjoy a safe and satisfying trip every time they travel over land and sea with the Claret and Blue Army. The Club are also determined to provide a secure and pleasant atmosphere for opposition followers visiting the Boleyn Ground.