The FA are not about to spoil the fans' fun when Scotland travel to play England in August. They have denied that bagpipes are to be banned for the Wembley game. The sides will meet to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the ruling body in England, 14 years since the sides last met at Wembley. 14 August will be the date in many diaries of fans planning to reignite memories of the Wembley weekend, albeit the game is being played on a Wednesday. FA bosses insist newspaper reports suggesting that fans planning to take bagpipes into the ground will be turned away at the gate on health and safety grounds are false. Any musicians will will have to apply first.FA spokesman Stuart Mawhinney said: "Further to media reports, The Football Association would like to clarify its policy on bringing musical instruments into Wembley Stadium for England v Scotland on 14 August. At this time we have yet to receive an official approach from the Scottish Football Association regarding details for their official members who will attend the fixture, though this is not unusual given that ticket details have only just been released. Both organisations are in regular dialogue regarding all operational matters. The FA would listen to any specific requests from the proper channels, and look to make provisions where possible. We regularly welcome the England supporters' group who play instruments to Wembley Stadium and have worked with clubs and fan groups, on a case by case basis, to facilitate entry for personalised items not permitted within the stadium ground regulations. There is a process in place for every fixture and, with prior notice and agreement to the specific criteria, they are permitted entry and to play within the stadium in pre-agreed areas. It should be made clear that any supporters who do not seek prior permission through the official channels, in this case the Scottish FA, and attempt to enter the ground with any prohibited items they will either be confiscated or the ticket holder refused entry."The SFA have yet to receive any applications from fans hoping to take bagpipes to the game. An SFA spokesperson said: "Full details on match arrangements, including ticket details, will be sent out this week." Meanwhile, the FA says it will provide fans of each side with one "large crowd-surfing banner". Mawhinney added: "England and Scotland is the oldest international fixture in world football, and it is only fitting to stage the game this year. Celebrating 150 years of The FA and 140 years of the Scottish FA, we fully expect it to be a wonderful occasion and it is only right that supporters from both teams are able to share in the special night at Wembley."
Source: ScottishFitba
Source: FOOTYMAD
