Another throw of the dice to save Athletic

Last updated : 03 July 2003 By Dave Moore

A new initiative is being launched that will allow local businesses to have a real say in the clubs future. It is hoped that 10 individuals will invest £25,000 each in the club. In return they will be given a lifetime membership of the club allowing them (and a partner) entry to all matches with VIP treatment. One member of the Advisory Panel could be rotated throughout the season to sit on the Board of Directors.

Sean Jarvis explained, “It is in its conceptual stage but at this time, as supporters know, we are looking at various ways at raising funds very quickly that can be used to ensure the future of the Club. Along with the Supporters Trust this is one of those methods. Through the meetings we have held it has become apparent that a number of individuals want to become involved in the Club but may not have the substantial funds at this stage. Consequently we have devised a scheme called the Advisory Panel of 10 that could generate a quarter of a million pounds."

"In return for their investment they would recieve the membership and be part of a very poweful group at Boundary Park. We don't think it would be beneficial to have 10 people on the board so would ask them to select one to, season on season, be their representative and have a say on how the club should be run from a business community perspective. For their collective investment it is envisaged that the Advisory Panel will receive a shareholding in the club. The finer details are currently being confirmed and we hope to put together a prospectus very soon. I will also add there are already a couple of business individuals who have expressed an interest to being on this panel. Any other interested parties can contact me at the Club for more information if they require.”