Call for alcohol ‘drinking zones’ trial at English football grounds “It’s 40 years ago since alcohol was banned in view of the pitch – perhaps it’s time for a modern approach to a modern game" “Whilst fans of other sports can drink in the stands, football fans can’t." (Image: GETTY ) An MP has called for trials to allow football fans in England to drink alcohol in view of the pitch should take place. Legislation from 1985 prevents drinking in view of the pitch in the top five tiers of the men’s game in England. ‌ Now, Labour's Luke Charters has suggested trials be run on changes to the rules as the House of Commons debated the Football Governance Bill. ‌ The MP for York Outer said: "It’s 40 years ago since alcohol was banned in view of the pitch – perhaps it’s time for a modern approach to a modern game. The days of hooliganism are gone. “Whilst fans of other sports can drink in the stands, football fans can’t. “Limited trials of designated drinking zones in the view of the pitch could be an interesting idea. Article continues below “For me, we should always keep family areas free of this but let’s give fans who want to drink in the stands the chance to do so responsibly, or at least let’s have a conversation about this as a country.” ------ Day in day out, our reporters in the Manchester Evening News newsroom bring you remarkable stories from all aspects of Mancunian life. However, with the pace of life these days, the frenetic news agenda and social media algorithms, you might not be getting a chance to read it. ‌ That's why every week our Features and Perspectives editor Rob Williams brings you Unmissable, highlighting the best of what we do - bringing it to you directly from us. Make sure you don't miss out, and see what else we have to offer, by clicking here and signing up for MEN Daily News. And be sure to join our politics writer Jo Timan every Sunday for his essential commentary on what matters most to you in Greater Manchester each week in our newsletter Due North. You can also sign up for that here. You can also get all your favourite content from the Manchester Evening News on WhatsApp. Click here to see everything we offer, including everything from breaking news to Coronation Street. Article continues below If you prefer reading our stories on your phone, consider downloading the Manchester Evening News app here, and our news desk will make sure every time an essential story breaks, you'll be the first to hear about it. And finally, if there is a story you think our journalists should be looking into, we want to hear from you. Email us on newsdesk@men-news.co.uk or give us a ring on 0161 211 2920.