Breaking: Manchester United singing section plans put on hold

Manchester United have been forced to put a proposed fans singing section on hold until 2013-14.

Supporters had put the idea to the club in March, with the intention of improving the Old Trafford atmosphere by having a section of seats where the more vocal fans could be together close to the pitch.

United agreed and over 1,300 season ticket holders had signed up to move to the proposed section including terrace songster Pete Boyle and Mani from the Stone Roses. That number was set to surpass the initial target set by the club who were prepared to allocate up to 2,500 seats for the area hitherto given to away fans.

The vocal Reds expected to be in the new section by the start of the new season, with United hoping that away fans could be moved to Tier 3 of the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, subject to agreement with Trafford Council and the Police. United had successfully trialled that idea when Aston Villa fans sat in Tier 3 for the recent league game.

However follow a report received by United on Wednesday, the plans have been put back.

The Club has been asked for some further detailed analysis, said a United spokesman.

Unfortunately there is not the time for the Club to do that work, conduct a ST (season ticket) renewal process, submit the proposals for approval and potentially implement the section for the start of next season.

Work has already begun to address the issues raised and the Club hopes to be in a position to make a further announcement at the start of next season.

The Club will keep dialogue going on this matter but thanks the fans for their patience.

Fans were disappointed.

"I'm really unhappy about this especially after losing the league on Sunday," sa! id Pete Boyle.

"We're led to believe this will be a delay of one year.

"It's far from ideal, but we have to be patient and realise the club want this to work as much as the fans."

:: Read Andy Mitten's opinion piece on this issue in Saturday's MEN

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