West Ham United Independent Supporters' Association have written to the club after it was revealed that there would be no trains returning to London following next week's Carabao Cup tie against Cheltenham.
Although West Ham were drawn as the home side in the tie, which takes place on Wednesday, 23 August, the match will be staged at the League Two club's Whaddon Road ground as the Hammers do not have a ground in which to play the match as a result of the recent World Athletics.And should the game enter extra time, and possibly penalties, Hammers fans travelling by rail will be left stranded - as the last scheduled train to London leaves Chelteham at 10.01pm.
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As a result of this possibility, WHUISA have written to the club asking that they make a 'gesture of goodwill' to the 1,050 fans who will making the trip to Gloucestershire next week.
"WHUISA wishes to express its disappointment in the club and the apparent lack of goodwill shown towards the fans who travel to away games to support the team," read the letter, which KUMB has seen.
"West Ham were drawn to play Cheltenham Town at home in the Caraboa Cup but this was re-arranged as an away game at West Ham’s request making it the fourth consecutive away fixture in the space of two weeks.
"This fixture could attract extra time and penalties but without leaving the game early during normal time, it is not possible for away fans to take the last train back to London which departs at 22.01 so a lengthy road journey or overnight stay is the only practical solution.
"It is therefore disappointing that no gesture of goodwill has been made by the club for this game at a time when the income it receives from Sky TV and Season Ticket sales is higher than it has ever been.
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"We believe a solution to this would be a gesture towards all fans whether travelling near or far to the match in funding the cost of the match ticket.
"If every one of the 1,050 allocation were sold at the full adult price it would cost the club a little over £22,000 to pay for them. This is a televised game and the positive publicity a gesture like that would attract is a small price to pay to reward some of the most loyal and dedicated West Ham fans.
"We are certain West Ham United will want to make a strong positive gesture to its loyal fans in this quite unique situation."
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