Demolition begins of derelict Hull stadium
The derelict former home of Hull FC is being torn down by demolition contractors who are making way for a brand new school to be built on the site.
Contractors started work on the Boulevard stadium in West Hull on Monday, after it had been standing empty since the Airlie Birds moved to their new KC Stadium in West Park in 2003. Prior to that it had been the team's home for 107 years.
Chariman of the FC Voices fan group, Pete Allen, said it was a sad day but that progress was inevitable.
"They will be removing what had been, since 1895, the home of the Airlie Birds and the spiritual home of hundreds of thousands of Hull FC supporters," he said, adding that something needed to be done so that people did not forget it.
"It is important that in the future the heritage, location and origins of the famous club, are remembered. The creation of a fitting memorial as part of the new development will put down a marker for future generations."
The turf, where ashes of many supporters have been scattered, will be moved carefully at a later date and the foundation stones have been salvaged and put in storage.
Leading demolition contractor, Richard Hall, is himself a season pass holder and has been going to games since the age of six. He said, "The demolition will be done with care and respect because it is my own club. But it is progress."
