The Blackpool Football Club Stadium Hotel, nestled within the Bloomfield Road Stadium, offers a unique experience for those seeking a "Superior Room with Pitch View". However, a recent discovery by a Guardian journalist reveals a peculiar twist to this accommodation. When booking, guests are informed that due to EFL rules, curtains must remain drawn during matches, resulting in a pitch-viewing experience that is, well, curtains. This is because failure to comply could lead to a hefty £2,500 fine. The journalist's investigation leads to a curious situation where, during a match between Blackpool and Northampton, they find themselves in a pitch-viewing room with a heavy curtain blocking the panoramic window. Despite the lack of view, the journalist is able to listen to the match through the window, catching glimpses of the action and hearing the fans' cheers. The room also provides free wifi, allowing them to check the score and listen to local radio updates. However, the journalist's experience is not without its drawbacks. The room lacks a view of the pitch, and the en-suite bathroom offers only complimentary soaps. The first half of the match passes serenely, with the journalist enjoying the atmosphere and the half-time announcements. But the novelty of the situation begins to wear off in the second half, and the journalist starts to question the assignment's high-octane promise. The journalist ponders whether to wander downstairs and purchase a ticket, but ultimately decides to stick to the assignment. The article highlights two main reasons for this absurd situation: EFL rules stating that everyone in view of the pitch must have a ticket, and the Sporting Events Act 1985 preventing alcohol consumption within view of the pitch. The journalist suggests that a simple solution would be for the hotel to offer matchday tickets along with the room booking, and calls for a reform of the 40-year-old alcohol legislation surrounding football. The article concludes with a thought-provoking question, inviting readers to share their thoughts in the comments section.
