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Bolton Wanderers will allow journalists from The Sun newspaper to attend their games in the future following high-level talks between the club and the publication.
Chairman, Sharon Brittan, has confirmed the press box ban previously issued for “insensitive” reporting on the death of Wanderers fan, Iain Purslow, has now been revoked in accordance with the wishes of his family.
Writing in his programme notes for Saturday’s game against Barnsley, Ms Brittan confirmed she had discussed the matter with the newspaper’s editor-in-chief, Victora Newton, and that The Sun had made a donation to a charity of the family's choice as a gesture of goodwill.
The initial headline which caused a storm – “Footie binned… Over ill fan” – was printed on January 14, the day after a match against Cheltenham Town had been abandoned because of a medical emergency in the crowd. Mr Purslow, who had collapsed and was given CPR at the scene for more than 20 minutes, later passed away.
The Sun subsequently ran two apologies for the error and have also helped to ensure some pictures of the scene, which also caused controversy at the time, have also been removed from archives.
“Earlier this year, we grieved for the loss of one of our own when Mr Iain Purslow sadly passed away after watching his beloved team,” Ms Brittan wrote. “My thoughts, and those of everybody connected to the club, will always remain with Iain’s family and friends.
“The way we all united – and let’s not forget the Cheltenham Town supporters – to show dignity and warmth was heart-warming. Bolton Wanderers is a family and we share and enjoy the good times and work through those challenging and sad moments.
“In the aftermath of Iain’s passing, The Sun newspaper published an article that, without question, was insensitive and caused significant distress to Iain’s family and everybody associated with Bolton Wanderers. In response, I took the immediate step of withdrawing the newspaper’s media privileges.
“However, in the days following, I was in active dialogue with Victoria Newton, the paper’s Editor in Chief. It’s crucial for me to share that, during these discussions, I sensed a genuine remorse from here and on behalf of the newspaper. The public apology which was subsequently in the paper was sincere, and I believe it was a step towards making reparation for the anguish the original article caused.
“Furthermore, Victoria took the initiative to speak with Iain’s family, offering a personal apology. This act of contrition and her willingness to directly face those hurt by their action is notable.
“Victoria also assisted the club in contacting photographic agencies to request that those images which the family found distressing were removed from their libraries.
“As many of you are aware, I believe in offering second chances, especially when there is a demonstrable commitment to learn from mistakes. Keeping this principle in mind, and after careful consideration and speaking with Iain’s family, I decided to rescind the ban on the newspaper. This means they will be allowed to return to the press box on matchdays at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
“Additionally, in a gesture of goodwill, the newspaper committed to making a donation to a charity chosen by Iain’s family.
“I understand that the initial article caused dismay and anger among us all; it was a sentiment I shared wholeheartedly. However, I firmly believe in the power of forgiveness and moving forward together. This decision is not about forgetting the hurt caused but about giving a chance for redemption and learning.”
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