Prime Minister keen to overturn ban on football fans drinking alcohol in stands
Law applies to England and Wales but no such problem for Irish League club Coleraine
Coleraine are out in front at the top of the Premiership table but might they also have stolen a march when it comes to matters off the field?
According to recent reports, Prime Minister Andy Burnham, has signalled he may lift the ban on drinking alcohol in the stands at football matches, suggesting it is 'unfair' when it is permitted for other sports.
As it currently stands, the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc) Act 1985 prohibits drinking in sight of the pitch in England and Wales but there are growing calls for a rethink.
And while the Prime Minister's views have been welcomed by the Football Supporters’ Association and the English Football League, police have voiced some concern at the idea.
Nearer home, and supporters of league leaders Coleraine have been able to enjoy a drink on the terraces during home games at the Showgrounds thanks to the introduction of an all new fan zone.
It operates before, during and after games, providing live music, food and the sale of alcohol in a welcome new departure for the Irish League.
Anecdotally, the venture is proving a huge success, with plans in place for further development as the season progresses on the site behind the Railway End stand.
The Prime Minister, a dedicated Everton fan, has long opposed the ban in England and Wales, claiming it is discriminatory and out of date.
“I don’t think it’s fair for football fans to be singled out in that way and I made that point," he is reported to have said.
"I think that legislation dates to an era where football was very different. And I do believe there is a case to remove that discrimination.
“There are different ways it could be done, perhaps on a trial basis. But I’m not going to back away from what’s been a long-held view of mine.
"I don’t see how it can be fair that some supporters of one sport can be treated differently," he added.
Very much a case of a political football then but, if the PM's stuck for a pint watching a team in blue, then maybe a visit to the Showgrounds in in order...