The Mariners begin their Emirates FA Cup campaign this Sunday as Town travel to the Stan Robinson Stadium to face Stafford Rangers in the first round, with kick-off scheduled for 12pm.
If you’re making the journey to Stafford to back the Mariners, here’s everything you need to know ahead of the trip.
What colour kit will the team be wearing?
Town will be wearing our blue away kit for Sunday’s fixture.
What’s the ticket information?
The Mariners received an allocation of 450 tickets for this fixture, which are now sold out.
What stand are Town fans in?
Town supporters will be accommodated in the Lotus Stand, a covered terrace.
Away supporters should use the turnstiles on the left-hand side as they approach the visiting supporters’ section.
How do I get to the ground?
The postcode for sat-nav users is ST16 3BX.
Directions from the A518 (Uttoxeter):
After passing the County Showground, turn right at the next roundabout, by the University and Fire Station, into Beaconside.
Follow this road for approximately 1.5 miles, passing MOD (former RAF Stafford), before turning left at the second set of traffic lights into Sandon Road, heading towards the town centre.
After approximately one mile, turn right at the first set of traffic lights into Astonfields. The ground is a quarter of a mile ahead on the left-hand side.
Where is the best place to park?
There is no parking available at the stadium.
Supporters are advised to use on-street parking, while some local businesses also offer parking for a fee.
Alternatively, parking is available at Stafford Common (ST16 3DQ), off Common Road, for a £2 charge.
Please ensure you park considerately and follow all local parking restrictions.
Is there disabled parking?
There is very limited disabled parking available at the ground, but all spaces have already been allocated for this fixture.
When do turnstiles open?
Turnstiles will open at 10am, two hours before the scheduled kick-off.
Away supporters should enter via the designated turnstiles for the Lotus Stand.
What is the nearest train station?
Stafford Railway Station is approximately 1.3 miles from the Stan Robinson Stadium, with the walk taking around 30 minutes.
Supporters travelling by train should allow sufficient time to reach the ground before kick-off.
Please check your journey before travelling, as engineering work is affecting rail services to Stafford on Sunday.
Recommended pubs for away fans
There are no designated home or away pubs in Stafford, and visiting supporters are welcome in local pubs.
Amasal Sports & Social Club
Located on St Albans Road (ST16 3DR), Amasal Sports & Social Club will open its doors from 10am and has extended a warm welcome to all visiting supporters. It is approximately a five-minute walk from the stadium.
The Kings Arms
Situated on Peel Terrace (ST16 3HD), The Kings Arms is the nearest pub to the stadium.
The Tap & Spile
Also located on Peel Terrace (ST16 3HE), The Tap & Spile is another option for supporters looking for refreshments before the game.
The Joiners Arms
Situated on Marston Road (ST16 3BS), The Joiners Arms is approximately a 10-minute walk from the stadium.
What food is available in the area?
There are limited food options immediately around the stadium, although Stafford town centre, approximately 1.3 miles away, offers a selection of fast-food outlets.
Where is the nearest cash machine?
The nearest cash machine is located at the Shell Garage on Sandon Road (ST16 3HY).
What food and drink is available at the stadium?
There are no bar facilities available in the away end.
Tea and coffee can be purchased from the Tuck Shop, located in the black portacabin adjacent to the First Aid Hut.
Supporters can also purchase pies from the Pie Oven, alongside fresh samosas and cobs in the away end.
Please note that the food outlets in the away end accept contactless payments only.
What is the flag policy?
Flags are permitted in the away end at the rear of the stand, but must not obscure any sponsorship boards.
Please follow the instructions of stewards when positioning flags.
Mariners Respects
We’re proud of the outstanding support Grimsby Town receives both home and away. We want everyone attending to enjoy the match in a welcoming environment.
Abusive or indecent language, as well as any discriminatory or threatening behaviour – including racist, homophobic, sexist, sectarian, xenophobic or anti-disability chanting or actions – has no place at our games.
The Club may issue bans, including indefinite bans, to anyone found to have engaged in discriminatory language or violent behaviour.
We look forward to seeing the Mariners backed loudly and proudly in Stafford. Safe travels to all supporters making the journey.
UTM