Supporters Club Publish Notes From Open Forum

Last updated : 16 July 2009 By Stray Shots Team

Although news of the event was first published unofficially on the Shotsweb messageboard, they were quickly edited and later an announcement from the Supporters Club was removed from the SC page on the official site with the announcement that "no notes were made".

The situation was reversed - confusing the matter even further soon afterwards and it now appears that a "watered down" version of the notes have been published.

The bullet-point notes state:

The Committee was asked what is happening with the Black Bull. Its future is currently under negotiation. The Committee was urged to go back to the Board and stress that there is a need for a suitable drinking venue for the ordinary fans at the Recreation Ground, as they need to be looked after as well as the "corporate customer".

There was a strong feeling that supporters have the right to ask what the money donated by the Supporters Club is being used for. It was confirmed that in future, all donations will be presented on the pitch and it will be stated how they are to be used.

Tony Brooker appealed for support for Cash for Shots and a possible link with the "player fund" was mentioned.

Supporters stressed the need for improvements to the club shop. Some also feel that the football club does not have the infrastructure for a profitable, sustainable business and that money should go into building that infrastructure rather than a player fund. One supporter made a comment that there is a perceived lack of football industry knowledge within the administrative structure of the football club.

It was confirmed that the Operations Board is to have monthly meetings. Supporters would like the OB to give feedback on a regular basis and a newsletter was suggested.

It was confirmed that from a legal point of view, the Supporters Club cannot get involved with the Trust and to do so would jeopardise the Supporters Club position on the Board.

The latest proposal is that new caterers will be coming in for next season and it is likely they will be taking over all catering at the Recreation Ground.

Supporters feel that the website needs a Premium TV site.

It was suggested that the Committee develops a formal "plan of action" for fundraising. Close season events were also suggested. It was confirmed that there is to be an "affordable" social event on 25th September in the Phoenix Social Club, involving a meal and entertainment. An end of season dinner/ball in a marquee on the pitch is also being considered.

It was confirmed that payment will be needed in advance from those wishing to travel on Supporters Club coaches next season. i.e. it will not be possible to pay on the day.

All suggestions/action points will be taken on board and actioned or referred as appropriate.