Refunds for footballers over kick-off ‘shambles’

League officials were annoyed to find council staff had forgotten to put up posts at pitches in Greetland, Mytholmroyd and Hebden Bridge.

They also reported no hot water for showers at Savile Park in Halifax. And at Carr Green Rec, Brighouse, the wrong key was issued for the changing facilities.

The weekend’s events were branded a “complete shambles” by Mike Sharman, the secretary of the Halifax Sunday Football League. But Mr Sharman yesterday welcomed a council statement which said teams would be compensated.

A Calderdale Council spokeswoman said the issues had now been resolved.

“Unfortunately due to a breakdown in communication, goalposts at three sites across Calderdale were not erected, but are all now in place.

“The problem with the water was down to a timer, and is being fixed. There is a pre-season checklist in place to ensure that pitches are ready for the new season, and this process is being reviewed to improve this process in future. As a gesture of goodwill, the teams affected will be reimbursed £30.”