Fans injured as balcony collapses during cup tie

On December 11, 1984, Havant Rugby Club, based at Hooks Lane, Bedhampton, played a home match in what was then the John Player Cup.
An injured supporter is comforted by while waiting for an ambulance.An injured supporter is comforted by while waiting for an ambulance.
An injured supporter is comforted by while waiting for an ambulance.

Their opponents were Berry Hill, the Gloucestershire champions, who brought many supporters with them many of whom watched the match from a balcony above the main stand.

At 3.15pm, under the weight of supporters, the wooden floor gave way and about 30 people fell through to the stand below.

Many were injured but, thankfully, none seriously.

Looking down through the  floor of the collapsed balcony.Looking down through the  floor of the collapsed balcony.
Looking down through the floor of the collapsed balcony.
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The game was stopped for a while and when it was realised it was not as bad as it looked, the game continued with Havant eventually losing 27-7.

Were you there that day? Please let us know if you were.

Portsmouth News photographer Simon Barnett happened to be on the scene and captured these pictures.