Ipswich Town to provide free tickets to NHS staff once coronavirus outbreak is over

Ipswich Town say they are looking at ways to pay tribute to NHS staff once the coronavirus outbreak is over.

Dan Palfrey, from the club's public relations team, told the club website they will "provide free tickets for as many [staff] as we can".

The club have offered the facilities at Portman Road to the NHS to use during the outbreak if needed.

Mr Palfrey said they were already planning for when football eventually returns.

He said: “At the moment, the best thing we can do for the NHS is to stay at home but when the time is right and we are back playing football again, we will be inviting doctors, nurses and other NHS staff who work within the county to be our guests for a game.

“We will provide free tickets for as many as we can and we intend to ask some representatives to lead the teams out as our Community Champions. We would aim to get as many NHS workers out on the pitch as we can so we can all have an opportunity to show our gratitude.

“It will definitely happen. It’s just a case of when. If the current season resumes in front of supporters, then we will look to do it then. If not, it will be at the start of next season.

“We will also look at recognising other areas that are playing a part for the country during the pandemic like the supermarket workers and carers.”