We live by Wrexham’s stadium – but we’re trapped in our homes and overrun with tourists after ‘Hollywood’ takeover
LOCALS living by Wrexham’s stadium say they are trapped in their homes and overrun with tourists since the club’s “Hollywood” takeover.
Wrexham AFC, one of the oldest clubs in the world, was unexpectedly bought by film stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
Andrew Price / View Finder PicturesResidents living opposite Wrexham AFC’s ground say parking is a ‘nightmare’[/caption]
Andrew Price / View Finder PicturesThe club has been taken over by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds (pictured) and Rob McElhenney[/caption]
Andrew Price / View Finder PicturesPat and Frank Harry are lifelong fans of the Red Dragons[/caption]
The Welsh side stormed to National League title glory in their second season under the Hollywood duo’s leadership and are now playing in League Two.
Locals can’t get enough of the Red Dragons’ newfound success – but say there are still downsides to it.
Jeremy Kent, 37, said: “It’s got busier for sure. But it’s great what the owners have done for the club and the town.
“We even get lots of tourists. The only downside is the roads are closed around match days so you have to watch not to get caught out.
“Some fans were worried it was going to a flash in the pan, but I don’t think these owners will up and leave.”
The town is due to get even busier with plans for a new 5,500 seat Kop stand at the Stok Racecourse ground.
Dad-of-two Richard Hughes, 57, said: “It’s a bit of a nightmare on match days with the traffic and parking.
“You become a prisoner in your own home.
“But some fans park where they shouldn’t and block you drives or take your parking spot.
“I’ve seen one fight over parking. There was a lot of shouting and pushing and shouting and a few punches thrown.
“It was crazy.”
Lifelong fan Frank Harry, 84, said: “I love living close to the ground and the club is in a great position.
“It’s very exciting. There is a problem with the traffic, mind.
“I have seen people rowing over parking spots on match days with some fans parking right by people’s houses where they shouldn’t.
“But I love it here. I go home and away.”
His wife Pat, 84, said: “Frank loves the club – he even brought me to a game just after we have got engaged.
“It is noisy when they score but exciting.”
Sam Rosser, 35, said: “I think it’s brilliant living near the football club.
“It’s a great atmosphere and very exciting with all the fans and especially with the American owners.
“We’ve even started getting foreign tourists taking pictures of the club.”
His mum Juliet, 60, said: “It’s great living so close.
“People do complain that some fans park by their drives and in front of their houses.
“And many don’t like the fact that they are trapped at home on match days.
“But I don’t have a car, so I don’t mind.”
Wrexham AFC has been contacted for comment.
Ryan Reynolds is making house prices soar in Wrexham after spending millions on its team’s football success.
Andrew Price / View Finder PicturesJuliet Rosser and her son Sam love living next to the club[/caption]
Andrew Price / View Finder PicturesJeremy Kent says road closures on match days are the ‘only downside’[/caption]
