Supporters Direct Press Release

By: Bill Osborne
Date: 23/03/2004

SUPPORTERS Direct is a democratic, Industrial and Provident Society, funded by public money and with over one hundred member trusts.

With a combined membership of over 65000 people, supporters trusts have now put more than £4 million into the game and own or control 8 clubs in England and Scotland. All trusts are founded on democratic, mutual and not-for-profit principles.

The Budget gave supporters trusts more good news this month. Following a review of the tax position of Supporters Trusts, the Treasury has pledged to work towards finding a way of assisting trusts to maximise the money that they receive from their members.

Shareholders United, as reds break all records (Manchester United Supporters Trust)

Shareholders United's monthly purchase of shares in Manchester Utd plc have surpassed the £100,000 barrier for the first time in March 2004 (for a single monthly purchase), and membership looks like passing 10,000 by April this year. Supporters Trusts - not just for the little clubs!

Right Turn, Clyde! (Clyde Supporters Trust)

Clyde Supporters Trust have committed to raise at least £100,000 over the next few weeks to be part of a consortium seeking to take over the Scottish First Division club, currently favourites for promotion to the SPL

Bess United poised for buyout (Brentford Trust)

Bees United, the Brentford Supporters Trust, have revealed that they are in talks to buy the club from current owner, Ron Noades' company, Altonwood. They have already been running the club day-to-day for nearly a year and recently posted a surplus for the first time in living memory.

Halifax place ground in trust (Halifax FC and Halifax RLFC Supporters' Trusts)

The long-term future of Halifax Town FC and Halifax Rugby League Club has been secured with the 'Shay Stadium Trust' buying the home of both clubs. This not-for-profit company follows a recommendation by Supporters Direct to Calderdale Council in 2002.

Trust Oldham, as fans take a stake (Oldham Athletic Supporters Trust)

Trust Oldham, the Oldham Athletic Supporters Trust have taken a 3% stake in their club and have a Director on the Board. This follows the takeover last month, led by two US-based, British businessmen.

Worcester join up (Worcester City Supporters Trust)

Fans of Worcester City, 4th in the Dr Martens Premier Division, have registered their trust. This continues the impressive expansion of the trust movement into the grassroots of the game, seen in recent months

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