Short supply of minibuses in Walsall as Saddlers fans organise Wembley trip

Scores of hire companies have already seen their vehicles fully booked as groups of fans prepare to travel to the national stadium.

More than 25,000 supporters will be making the journey for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final against Bristol City on March 22.

Admiral Self Drive Hire in Bloxwich Lane has seen the 10 minibuses it has available already snapped up by fans for that weekend.

It has a fleet of nine and 17-seaters, which cost between £200 and £300.

Manager Chris Westwood said there had been an immediate interest in hiring minibuses as soon as it was announced Walsall were in the final.

"All of them are going to Wembley," he said. "When it comes to football, when your team gets to play at Wembley, it is a special occasion.

TNS Travel in North Street, Walsall, offers an inclusive service where a bus can be hired along with driver, parking and petrol costs.

Shift manager Adeel Ali said their vehicles were already taken and other firms in the town were fully booked for the trip to London.

"We have had so many inquiries," he said: "People are ringing up and begging for buses. We have had people ringing in offering us double.

"It is the first time Walsall is going to Wembley and it is a big thing for us local people."

Rising Brook car and van hire in Walsall Road, Cannock, has also seen seven of its minibuses taken up, with just two nine seaters left for the day of the match.

Staff worker Jade Bowen, said they had been fielding a number of inquiries.

"The Walsall game has helped a lot. It is good to see a bit of community spirit," she added.

The final will be the first time the club has appeared at Wembley in its 127 year-old history. More than 35 official club coaches are due to head to London as the town gets behind the team.

Fans planning on going by train have already been warned to expect major delays and disruption due to rail line works.

Commuters will have to switch to buses on parts of the route between Birmingham and London Marylebone after a huge landslip not far from Leamington Spa. It means passengers are facing at least 45 minute hold-ups compared to usual on the busy line.

Do you think you know Walsall's oldest or youngest season ticket holder? Do you know someone making an extraordinary journey to see the Saddler's play? Or can you not make the match at all? Email newsdesk@expressandstar.co.uk