Hartlepool ban two Newspapers from Ground

The Hartlepool Mail and the Northern Echo have told their readers that they are banned from Victoria Park, the home of Harlepool.

It been suggested that the reason is that the papers would not sign a 'commercial agreement' with the club.

The Northern Echo, along with the Hartlepool Mail, is banned from sending photographers to home matches, and reporters are denied press access at Victoria Park.

The Mail was originally banned because it refused to sign a commercial agreement which it considers to be unfair.

And The Northern Echo was then banned for supplying the Mail with pictures of recent matches and refusing to give a commitment not to do so in future.

Peter Barron, Editor of The Northern Echo, said: "I have twice written to the club, proposing a meeting so we can try to find a constructive way forward but, sadly, the offer has not even been acknowledged.

"It is very sad that the two newspapers which have given Hartlepool FC the most coverage home and away for many years should be treated in this way."

The club has warned other newspapers not to co-operate with the two papers and even ordered radio stations not to pass on quotes from the manager and players - even though they are broadcast shortly after the game.

Our Hartlepool United writer, Nick Loughlin, is buying a ticket to compile his match reports from the terraces.

And to make up for the lack of live pictures, last night's Carling Cup action has been superbly captured by graphic artist Chris Moran with the help of a sketch-book and a felt-tipped pen.

The Northen Echo belongs to the same group of newspapers as the Hereford Times.

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