trust news
New Year A New Start.
The trials and tribulations of our football club are well documented and need no elaboration from us. What is clear however, is that as we begin 2007, the future looks little brighter than it did twelve months ago.
A disappointing feature in recent times has been the rift that has emerged between supporter organisations and The Football Club. The common theme has been suspicion and mistrust on all sides, but perhaps the time and circumstances have emerged where this can no longer be allowed to continue.
Individual supporter organisations have at various times attempted to heal their rifts with The Club, without apparent success. Perhaps we need a combined approach, to finally clear the air and make reconciliation our theme for 2007. Friends of GFC, GISC, and The Trust have worthwhile contributions, both financially and otherwise, to make to The Club and it is time for this to be recognised in an atmosphere of mutual trust and common interest. We all want success for our team and our supporters but all the while we remain divided, our strength as supporters is lost.
All of us with a mutual interest in success for GFC must look to our organisations to find ways to co-operate, seek dialogue and find a way forward to work for the common good. We have the attributes but do we genuinely have the will?
We leave it for all concerned to ponder what might be possible in these difficult times. The Trust has an open door to The Football Club, and to our fellow supporters. If like us, you believe there is far greater strength through combined effort rather than suspicion and self interest, Chris White or any member of The GST Board can be available to discuss what might be possible.
Treat this as an open and conciliatory start to 2007 and see where it takes us. This goes for The Club and supporters alike.
Supporters Trust Quiz Night.
Brompton Westbrooke School, Saturday 27 January 2007.
As soccer has again been moved from a Saturday to accommodate TV GST has decided to organise a Quiz for the evening of Saturday 27 January 2007.
More details on our Community page.
GST Annual General Meeting.
Gillingham Supporters Trust announce the 2006 Annual General Meeting to consider the affairs of the Trust for the year ending December 2005.
It will be held at 12:00Hrs on Saturday 22 July 2006 in the Paul Shaw Suite at Priestfield Stadium Corporate Business Centre.
At the AGM the following items will be presented :-
• Acceptance of Minutes of 2005 AGM.
• Chairman’s Report.
• Treasurers Report.
• Membership Secretary Report.
• Election of Officials for 2006/07.
• Develop Next Years Trust Activities.
• Open Forum.
This is another opportunity for members meet the Trust committee and participate in suggestions as to how the trust should move forward. Ideas and concepts on what the Trust can do to prepare for the future and what representation can be made within GFC PLC. We would also encourage members to take a more active part in the Trust activities.
GST Membership Evening.
All members, prospective members and shareholders in GFC PLC are invited to attend an informal meeting of Gillingham Supporters Trust at The George Public House, City Way, Rochester, ME1 2BH on Monday 24th April from 17:30 onwards. A light finger buffet will be provided.
The purpose of the meeting is to give members a chance to meet each other and participate in suggestions as to how the trust should be conducting itself in the current climate. Ideas and concepts on what the Trust can do to prepare for the future and what representation can be made at the forthcoming AGM of GFC PLC. It may also encourage some members to take a more active part in some of the Trust activities.
Talking of volunteers if you think you could give up a couple of hours per week please come along. Progress can only continue if we have more willing hands to bring ideas to fruition. The GST is committed to helping the community as well as the football club, but we can only do so by growing our membership, and increasing our band of helpers. The GST is not an exclusive club; it is a shared enterprise of which all members are a part. By becoming more involved, your true sense of ownership of the Trust will be enjoyed to the full.
We hope to see you there for a map click
here
Membership Forms will be available on the night or you can join before the event on either.
www.ebay.co.uk
This includes electronic payments by credit card or Paypal the cost is only £1.00
Adult Membership Item number: 8798262490
or our membership page.
As a member you may be interested in our hot 100 club for only £5 per month you can enjoy excellent prizes and quarterly social evenings when we make the regular prize draws. We also have a Halloween Dinner/Dance planned for the 13th October which we hope you can all support.
Press Release - Gillingham Supporters Trust.
Wednesday 15 March 2006.
In January the Supporters Trust raised a number of issues through an open letter to it’s members, and the local media, concerning the finances of Gillingham Football Club. This drew an initial response from the club in early February, with an acknowledgement that, though not a formal figure, the overdraft stood at around ten million pounds. It was further stated that “technical hold-ups” were responsible for the non-publication of company accounts beyond the period ended May 2004 – technicalities resulting in a gap of some twenty-two months since the last set of audited figures being publicly available. Reassurance was given however, that a restructuring programme with the bank was well advanced, and those long awaited accounts would hopefully be filed “within the week”. As a consequence, a shareholders meeting could be expected some time in March.
It is now six weeks since those public pronouncements but so far no accounts to May 2005 have been posted, and no news of a meeting with shareholders is forthcoming. Given the statutory requirement for twenty-one days notice of an AGM, that will not now happen in March either. So, how much longer do we wait for news? How long before the club explain how they will continue to finance interest payments, which must exceed fifteen thousand pounds per week at today’s rates, on match attendances barely exceeding six thousand? A great many of those who attend these days are season ticket holders, whilst others are still whittling away their ten pound vouchers, so what is the average gate income at Priestfield these days? Supporters repeatedly ask how a new stadium can appear so high on the club’s agenda, when there is such an urgent and pressing need for improvement on the field of play, particularly over the vital coming weeks? These are the questions supporters want answered, and are the issues we are told cause them greatest concern, yet the response from the club is nothing short of lamentable.
Whilst the frequency of such questions continues to mount, so too does the anxiety level of supporters and shareholders alike, yet the rhetoric from Priestfield carries the same repetitive tone; the collapse of ITV digital, supporters with hidden agenda’s, and of course, that conveniently diversionary topic of a new stadium.
The fact is there are no hidden agenda’s. Supporters simply want reassurance, not over the siting of a new stadium but over the issue of potential relegation, and in many cases whether we will even have a club to support next year. How can they be expected to invest in season tickets for the coming campaign when so many doubts exist over the future?
As the Trust has pointed out in the past, the lack of timely, open, factual information serves only to breed rumour and uncertainty. Supporters have a right to know the facts, and the club an obligation to provide them. After all said and done, it’s our club too.
The press release can be viewed online available as a 
document
GST Press Release 15Mar06.
Open Letter to Gillingham Supporters.
from Gillingham Supporters Trust.
Following recent concerns from our members the trust has sent a letter to all trust members to highlight the current unacceptable delay in the release of Gillingham Football Club PLC accounts for 2004/2005.
To comply with statutory requirements these accounts should have been filed by 31st December 2005.
The members letter can be viewed online available as a document
Open Letter.
Gills a Rocky Path Ahead.
Friday 25 November 2005.
Growing evidence of the scale of decline of Gillingham Football Club, both on and off the pitch, has come as a devastating blow to those of us who care deeply for the club. Supporters had come to believe the bad old days really were a thing of the past, but today such optimism only heightens the disappointment now felt by so many.
There were of course those who claim to have seen this coming. The loss of quality players and an ageing squad were long evident to most, but remedial action seemingly came too late. The required miracle of Championship football eventually proved too much, even for Stan. History may indeed reveal that last seasons relegation was in the end a far greater watershed in the clubs decline than any failed TV deal. Only time will tell.
Whatever the past, it is now water under the bridge. The future is what matters. Football is a graveyard, littered with those who tried and failed. The priority for all of us today is to ensure Gillingham is not laid to rest among them.
Fortunately, our club is blessed with a strong and healthy heart, largely in the form of the community that has remained loyal to the cause for over one hundred years, irrespective of status. As case studies elsewhere ably demonstrate it may well be those same fans who must stand up and be counted this time too.
It appears, based on what little we know, that matters can only get worse. If the awaited financial restructuring fails a rescue package would be seemingly impossible without selling the clubs only remaining asset of value; Priestfield Stadium. That would be a tragedy, but options appear extremely limited.
Clearly the true financial status of the business would be better understood if a definitive statement were to be published by the board, stating clearly where matters stand. Recent pronouncements from the club have done little to alleviate the confusion and rumour-mongering currently rife among supporters over exactly what is owed, and to whom. Better still, if the board were to call an EGM, shareholders, supporters, media and stakeholders would have an opportunity to address these key issues directly with those running the club, and seek the answers this desperate situation demands. All the while supporters are kept in the dark they will only fear the worst.
Whatever happens from here on it is vital that we supporters present a united face on future key issues. A co-ordinated response to whatever comes our way may in the end provide the means to the clubs survival. Whether through the club itself, Gills Trust, the Independent Supporters, or any other group, we may ultimately find ourselves simply having to work together. There are very dark clouds gathering over Priestfield. Our club is facing another extremely difficult phase in its long and chequered history, and in the end it may well be the supporters who are forced to save the day. Be ready for the challenge.
Gills to consider relocation outside Medway.
Thursday 1st July 2004.
Gillingham FC has shelved plans for the £60million, 20,000 seater stadium at Temple Marsh because of the cost of improving transport links to the 54-acre site. At the press conference today club chairman Paul Scally said:
"Temple Marsh was the only one, and that has failed principally on the transport issue. There is no alternative but to leave Medway, which we will do, with heavy hearts”.
“Irrespective of where our home ends up, and it will be in Kent because we are a Kent club, we will continue to work with the people of Medway.”
The club are in talks with adjacent boroughs and hope to identify a new site in time for a move which could still take place within four years. Under consideration are two sites in Gravesham, one in Swale and another in Maidstone.
The trust considers a move away from Medway would not get widespread support as Gillingham FC is a major part of community life.
Gillingham Supporters Trust - AGM.
Chairman's Report.
Saturday 17th April 2004.
Fellow members,
Welcome to this, the first Annual General Meeting of the Gillingham Supporters Trust. It is my duty and pleasure today, to report on our activities over the past year, as well as look forward to the coming twelve months.
Our first year has produced what can best be described as mixed results. In some areas, such as fundraising, we have exceeded expectations; whilst in others we have fallen short of our ambitions. We have however, remained steadfast in our aims to do our best for Gillingham Football Club, for those who support the team, and the community from which the club derives its income.
There is, unfortunately, a misguided belief in footballing circles that supporters’ trusts are somehow in business to perform miracles, either by producing finance for clubs from thin air, or stepping into those same clubs as saviours, in the event of looming administration or bankruptcy. With some clubs the latter has actually proven to be the case, as fans have rallied around to keep football alive in their respective communities. More power to their elbow, but hopefully there’s more to the life of a supporters trust than crisis management and divine intervention.
Not having been called into action to perform on either count so far, the GST has sought to demonstrate alternative community value, mainly through our “Blue Zone Project”, designed to offer assistance to elderly, infirm or disabled supporters who experience difficulty in getting to matches, either at home or away. In addition, the scheme can provide transport solutions to the area at large on non-match days by assisting clubs, schools and local organizations with their travel needs, at low cost.
Our first vehicle – a sixteen-seater minibus – has already been purchased, and is presently undergoing work on new livery, before coming into service before the start of next season. A
much-publicized launch will take place in early summer, to ensure maximum coverage of the scheme in the local area. Furthermore, plans are already under way to add a second vehicle to the project before the end of this year, specially adapted to accommodate wheelchair users and their carers. A fund-raising “Midsummer Ball” will be held on Saturday 19th June, to help “bring number two into the fleet”. We urge you, your families and friends, to give this event your support. The cause is a worthy one.
On the subject of events, it seems some individuals were unhappy at the cost of our previous function, in some quarters accusing us of being elitist, and only catering for the wealthiest among us. I am sorry if this is the case. The brutal fact however, is that such occasions are as much about raising money as they are about having a good night out. It has to be accepted that, in general, corporate sponsors are a significant source for charitable funds, so that is where we have concentrated our efforts so far. We would be delighted to run other, less expensive functions, but the simple truth is we don’t have the manpower to organize them. We currently rely on a small but highly dedicated band of individuals to take on the responsibility we already have, and we desperately need more help. If some of our critics were actually willing to organize the types of events they wish to see, rather than criticize from the anonymity of website message boards, we would surely create more interest in the Trust as a whole, as well as add some much needed income to our coffers. This Trust exists for everyone who has an interest, but only through shared participation can we grow and prosper.
Despite our limited labour resources, I am delighted to confirm that at least the finances of the Trust are in excellent shape, as our Treasurer will report shortly. We not only own a bus, we have a healthy bank balance too! In addition, the Trust recently received its first donation of shares in Gillingham Football Club Plc, to add to the three million or so voting proxies already committed to us. This in no way implies we are building a war chest to use those votes in a hostile or irresponsible manner at any club AGM, but it does mean we have sufficient backing to express our views with greater authority, should the need arise.
It’s a fact of life that supporters and small shareholders views will not always meet with the welcome approval of club boards, but any Trust has a responsibility to its members to voice concerns over the way a club is run, and the contribution they themselves make to its well-being. In the present football climate, the views of supporters are taken into account all too infrequently, and that simply has to change for the good of the game. We are significant participants and stakeholders in football, and must be respected as such. No longer can we accept being bullied and threatened into submission or silence, simply to avoid embarrassment for those who run our clubs.
On the subject of our own relationship with Gillingham Football Club, it was most unfortunate that club Chairman, Paul Scally, chose to attack the Trust in the way he did recently, on radio
Kent, in his local newspaper column and in the match-day programme. To set the record straight, several attempts were made to arrange a meeting with Mr. Scally concerning the raising of four million pounds from the community, but our messages and voicemails received no response. Hence our open letter via the local media. The subsequent misleading, and at times, vitriolic, response from Mr. Scally, was not only unwarranted, it was disappointing, and totally disproportionate and we have still no answers to the questions we justifiably raised.
Despite what some may view as an attempt by Mr. Scally to alienate yet another supporter’s organization, it must be made clear that the objectives of the Trust remain unchanged. We will continue operating to the best of our ability for the good of Gillingham Football Club as we see it, and for the benefit of those who follow and support the team. At no time have we sought conflict with the club, nor will we, but we will continue to ask awkward questions when pertinent to do so, however uncomfortable that may be for those running Gillingham FC’s affairs.
Looking ahead, our fervent aim remains to see a supporters representative on the board of Gillingham Football Club, not to be a voice of dissent, nor to be seen as a token gesture, but to make a worthwhile and lasting contribution to proceedings and to bring greater democracy and commitment to our club for the good of everyone. It has already happened elsewhere, so why not Gillingham?
But back to more pressing issues. On reflection, our first year overall has, as previously mentioned, been mixed. Following an initial burst of interest, growth in membership has, frankly, been disappointing. We all bear responsibility for that. Admittedly we have not had the resources to embark on a major recruitment campaign, but maybe there are more fundamental reasons for our loss of momentum. Is membership too costly? Are we genuinely perceived as elitist and unwelcoming? Are we simply too anonymous – our profile too low? Your feedback, views and ideas on this would be welcome, as we need to improve. Participation in Trust activities has also been less than we would have hoped for. We welcome new ideas for sure, but more importantly, we need the bodies to bring those ideas to fruition. Without fuller participation we cannot hope to prosper and progress. It’s up to you. Despite our relative shortcomings, we do remain positive, and are confident that, above all else, we have sufficient skill, commitment, energy and resources in our organization to really set to work, should that dreaded “rainy day” appear on the horizon for our club, and a miracle is required. Whilst our Nationwide Division One status still hangs in the balance, the financial future of the club is of even greater concern – none more so than the spectre of Priestfield Stadium being sold before another permanent home for the club is secured. The bitter experiences at Brighton, Wimbledon and York should be lessons to us all – we cannot allow that to happen here!
Before closing, the Gillingham Supporters Trust wishes to register a vote of thanks to Matthew Holt, who acted as our “case worker”, from the Supporters Direct organization, guiding us through our rather tentative beginnings. Matt has now moved on to pastures new within Birkbeck University, where we wish him well in the future. He goes with our immense gratitude.
In the meantime, the final message from your Chairman is more members – maybe you can start an “Enroll Your Granny” campaign – anything is better than nothing. Participate – don’t be afraid to stand up and be counted. The more each individual does, the better our end-result will be. And maybe you should buy an umbrella – rain may already be on the way.
Gills dip into the red over ITV Digital.
Accounts for 2002/2003.
GFC PLC have released accounts for the year ending 31 May 2003. They show a loss for the year of £965,000 compared with the previous years profit of £558,000.
Paul Scally GFC Chairman's statement included
"Our accounts for the previous financial year included about £2.9 million from ITV Digital, while those for 2002/3 saw that figure replaced by about £550,000 from Sky Television plus a grant from the Football League of £332,000 ie. a reduction in revenue of about £2 million.
At the same time, we were also hit by the enforced renegotiation of the Football League’s internet deal with FLPTV, which saw our potential annual income from this source fall from about £400,000 to £20,000-30,000 another unforeseen blow. In this context we were therefore naturally delighted with the revenue generated by our cup matches against Chelsea and Leeds United, especially as the home tie against the latter was televised live.
The ITV Digital fiasco has been by far and away the biggest factor in seeing our profit of £558,000 the previous year transformed into a loss of £965,000 for 2002/3. Nevertheless, our prudent measures to minimize the impact at least kept the difference to well below the £2 million of TV revenue we actually lost. Similarly, turnover fell from £8,755.000 to £7,929,000— but again not as big a drop as might be expected.
Early indications are that we seem likely to achieve a break-even figure for the current financial year, which will be a creditable achievement in the circumstances."
Other Highlights.
The freehold property was professionally valued at £13,950,000 at 31 May 2002 by Dunlop Haywood Lorenz, Consultancy Surveyors of Manchester. The book value of freehold properties has not been adjusted for this revaluation.
The company has a £7,500,000 bank facility which is secured by a debenture (dated 17 May 2000) over the whole of the company’s assets and by a legal charge over Priestfield Stadium, Gillingham.
£12 million has been expended in relation to the development of the ground. The directors estimate that the completion of the development will cost a further £150,000 (2002: £500,000). This expenditure is expected to fall within the next 12 months.
The questions you ask about your Supporters Trust.
Chairman Nigel Holland explains.
Since the Gillingham Supporters Trust came into being last year, three particular questions have arisen on a regular basis. I am pleased to address them again, to help provide a better understanding of the workings of the Trust, and what we seek to achieve.
“What are the main aims of the Trust?”
The formal aims and objectives of the Trust, as stated in our Constitution, available on request or downloadable from the website, but in short, we wish to see greater supporter and community involvement in the running of Gillingham Football Club, and to have a degree of influence over the direction the club may take in the future.
If Trust membership grows to the levels we aim for, we are confident we can create an effective forum, through which supporters, small shareholders, and the greater community, can be heard.
Ambitious goals perhaps, but they are realistic, and do not need to be achieved through conflict with those who run the football club. Whilst the Trust must retain an independent voice, this should not stand in the way of developing a healthy dialogue and cooperation with the GFC boardroom. We share common ambitions, and the ongoing success of Gillingham Football Club is of primary concern to us all. Our job is to convince the club we are worthy partners in those shared goals.
“What is a Supporters Trust, and how does it operate?”
The Gillingham Supporters Society, to give us our official title, is a non profit making co-operative, legally registered under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act — much like a Building Society, Credit Union, or your local Co-op Store.
Trust members become shareholders in the company upon joining, but can only own one share. This in turn entitles them to one vote, whenever there are issues to vote upon, or elections of any kind. No individual can own more than one share, or have more than one vote, thereby ensuring democracy prevails.
The present Board of the Trust will begin standing for re-election on a rotational basis shortly, starting at our first AGM in the autumn. New candidates are strongly urged to stand too. We rely far too heavily on a small but dedicated team right now, and would greatly benefit from an influx of new ideas and additional skills.
Why does Gillingham in particular, need a Supporters Trust?”
Supporters Trusts have a habit of surging to prominence only when the club they associate with runs into trouble. The Gillingham Trust wants to avoid being just a single-issue pressure group that appears from nowhere in a time of crisis, then fades away when the situation is resolved.
Our intention is to build a strong, meaningful support base, through which we can gain the respect of those in authority at the football club. That way we can perhaps bring influence to bear before a crisis even emerges. By having a strong and resourceful organisation in place, we can help pre-empt some of the difficulties other clubs have faced in recent times.
Our obligations to the community also mean we must provide a constant voice, as well as offer practical assistance for those who sup port the club. This is particularly important for any who may be disadvantaged in some way. Our project to assist with match day transport for disabled fans is one such initiative, bringing help where it is needed most.
Gillingham is a well-run club, with rapidly improving facilities, but maintaining high standards is a tough job. That is why the Trust puts such belief in the need for community input at Gillingham too, for the well being of club and supporters alike.
The Trust wins support from shareholders at the GFC AGM.
Priestfield Banqueting Rooms, Priestfield Stadium.
Throughout the evening trust committee members met shareholders to introduce and explain the aims of the Gillingham Supporters Trust.
Issue 10 of the Supporters Direct newsletter (April 2003) was handed to interested shareholders. Every supporter or shareholder was invited to join the trust. Membership forms were issued with the newsletter.
The evening started in the Blues Rock Cafe where shareholders could buy drinks and relax before the meeting. Following registration shareholders were given the option to tour the facilities at Priestfield. Tours were arranged in parties of ten.
The formal meeting was held in the Great Hall with up to 200 shareholders in attendance.
The company was represented by Chairman Paul Scally, Financial Director Neil Carter, Commercial Director Mark Nicholas and Vince Nichols from auditors Spokes and Company.
Formal Business.
Each of the five ordinary resolutions and one special resolution were proposed as read. All the resolutions were passed.
One shareholder voted against the re election of Paul Scally as chairman.
Nigel Holland of the trust and one other shareholder voted against the re election of the auditors Spokes and Company.
Question and Answer Session.
Nigel Holland asked for clarification about the relationship between Peter Spokes a director of GFC and former director of Spokes and Company the auditors. Paul Scally stated he did not see a conflict of interest as Peter Spokes had sold his interest in Spokes and Company some five years ago.
Nigel also asked why Peter Spokes a director in GFC is not a shareholder in the company. Paul Scally explained it was not a requirement for a director to hold shares and that Peter Spokes gives many hours of his time for the benefit of the company.
At the close of the meeting shareholders were invited to the Piano Bar for a cheese and wine reception.
In the Piano Bar Paul Scally along with the other directors discussed various issues with groups of shareholders.
More information for GFC shareholders can be found on our donations page.
Tony Cascarino Launches the Trust
The trust launch event was held at Lloyds Sports and Social Club on Thursday 6th February 2003 at 7:45pm.
A copy of the Powerpoint slides used in the presentation are available
here. (560k)
Many supporters completed membership forms on the night.
Please show your support and become a member by joining the trust on our membership page.
Nigel Holland talks about the need for a trust.
A Gills club legend Tony Cascarino asks fans to back the Trust, to help retain the family and community values he remembers so well from his time at Priestfield Stadium.
Monday 08 January 2007
Trust Newsletter - New Year, A New Start?
The January 2007 trust newsletter has been sent to members by email it discusses fundraising at the recent Halloween Ball and the Hot 100 Club.
A members Quiz Night is also arranged at the Brompton Westbrooke School in Kings Bastion Gillingham on Saturday 27th January.
The evening will consist of a few games as well as the Quiz, that will not be to a brain of Britain standard. The concept is to get members together and have a bit of fun. We aim to start at 7.30 pm and end around 11pm
The full newsletter is available on our members page.
Monday 16 June 2006
Supporters Trust AGM 2006
All members are invited to the 2006 Annual General Meeting of the Trust.
It will be held at 12:00Hrs on Saturday 22 July 2006. In the Paul Shaw Suite of Priestfield Stadium Corporate Business Centre.
At the AGM the following items will be presented :-
• Acceptance of Minutes of 2005 AGM.
• Chairman’s Report.
• Treasurers Report.
• Membership Secretary Report.
• Election of Officials for 2006/07.
• Develop Next Years Trust Activities.
• Open Forum.
We would like as many members as possible to attend.
Wednesday 12 April 2006
Trust Newsletter - April 2006.
The April 2006 trust newsletter has been sent to members by email it discusses the recent press releases asking for clarification on the GFC PLC finances. A members evening is also arranged at the The George Public House City Way, Rochester on Monday 24th April from 17:30. A finger buffet will be provided.
The full newsletter is available on our members page.
Monday 3 April 2006
Counting the Loss.
Gillingham Football Club Chairman Paul Scally has admitted to Kent on Sunday about losses of 1.8 million in the year to May 2005. This disappointing news comes just two weeks after our press release asking for the accounts to be released.
The Chairman, in the previous weeks article also accused the Trust of “negative attitudes” and considered that “The people behind the trust have not contributed a single penny to the club”. In fact many Trust members are season ticket holders, others have sponsored matches, booked match day experiences and regularly entertain guests using club facilities. The Trust through its activities have sponsored a player for the last three years with the income from three fundraising events in the Priestfield Great Hall all providing contributions to the Football Club funds.
Talking about the financial restructuring The Chairman said “We expect that to be finalised in two weeks time” and indicated that the 2004/05 AGM this is now likely to be the end of this season.
We await confirmation from Companies House that the 2004/05 accounts have been accepted. Due to the late filing of accounts the club will be automatically fined £500 by Companies House.
Thursday 30 March 2006
GFC Shareholders - Your registered address is important.
If you have moved home since acquiring shares in Gillingham Football Club you should contact Capita Registrars to update your address details.
A number of shareholders reported that they had not received notification of previous AGM meetings.
To make sure you receive all official communications download the
Change of Address Form
and send it to Capita Registrars, quoting
Your name as it is recorded on the Register of Shareholders.
Full details of both your old and new addresses.
Your investor code (which can be found bottom right on your share certificate).
The form must be signed by at least the first named shareholder where indicated.
Contact the registrar for change of name, address and lost certificates.
Capita Registrars, The Registry, 34 Beckenham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 4TU.
Telephone: 0870 162 3100, Fax. 020 8639 2342
Shareholder Online Help
Press Release - Gillingham Supporters Trust.
Wednesday 15 March 2006.
In January the Supporters Trust raised a number of issues through an open letter to it’s members, and the local media, concerning the finances of Gillingham Football Club. This drew an initial response from the club in early February, with an acknowledgement that, though not a formal figure, the overdraft stood at around ten million pounds. It was further stated that “technical hold-ups” were responsible for the non-publication of company accounts beyond the period ended May 2004 – technicalities resulting in a gap of some twenty-two months since the last set of audited figures being publicly available. Reassurance was given however, that a restructuring programme with the bank was well advanced, and those long awaited accounts would hopefully be filed “within the week”. As a consequence, a shareholders meeting could be expected some time in March.
It is now six weeks since those public pronouncements but so far no accounts to May 2005 have been posted, and no news of a meeting with shareholders is forthcoming. Given the statutory requirement for twenty-one days notice of an AGM, that will not now happen in March either. So, how much longer do we wait for news? How long before the club explain how they will continue to finance interest payments, which must exceed fifteen thousand pounds per week at today’s rates, on match attendances barely exceeding six thousand? A great many of those who attend these days are season ticket holders, whilst others are still whittling away their ten pound vouchers, so what is the average gate income at Priestfield these days? Supporters repeatedly ask how a new stadium can appear so high on the club’s agenda, when there is such an urgent and pressing need for improvement on the field of play, particularly over the vital coming weeks? These are the questions supporters want answered, and are the issues we are told cause them greatest concern, yet the response from the club is nothing short of lamentable.
Whilst the frequency of such questions continues to mount, so too does the anxiety level of supporters and shareholders alike, yet the rhetoric from Priestfield carries the same repetitive tone; the collapse of ITV digital, supporters with hidden agenda’s, and of course, that conveniently diversionary topic of a new stadium.
The fact is there are no hidden agenda’s. Supporters simply want reassurance, not over the siting of a new stadium but over the issue of potential relegation, and in many cases whether we will even have a club to support next year. How can they be expected to invest in season tickets for the coming campaign when so many doubts exist over the future?
As the Trust has pointed out in the past, the lack of timely, open, factual information serves only to breed rumour and uncertainty. Supporters have a right to know the facts, and the club an obligation to provide them. After all said and done, it’s our club too.
The press release can be viewed online available as a document
GST Press Release 15Mar06.
Thursday 9th March 2006
GST Minibus
GST remind members and non-members that our sixteen-seater minibus is available for use by clubs, schools and individuals alike, for whatever use you may find for it.
The bus is parked at The George public house in City Way, Rochester, and despite being an ardent Wolves fan, landlord John Gill will be happy to take bookings on 01634 843550.
There are no set fees for using the bus as it has been purchased by the Trust specifically for community use. We do ask however that the vehicle is returned with a full tank of diesel, and of course we would be delighted to receive donations to the Trust whenever the bus is used, to assist with the cost of insurance and maintenance.
Thursday 22nd February 2006
Supporters Direct Press Release
For immediate release
Supporters Direct Europe on the agenda as part of EU/UEFA review
The potential for a Europe-wide version of Supporters Direct – the governing body for over 130 supporters’ trusts in the UK – has been placed on the agenda as part of the EU/UEFA Independent Football Review.
The review was pushed for by the Sports Minister, Richard Caborn MP, during the UK’s presidency of the EU last year, and involves the Sports Ministers of France, Germany, Italy and Spain, working alongside UEFA.
The review, which is expected to be concluded in early Summer this year, contains a glowing testimony to the trust movement in this country in the terms of reference of the report, stating, ‘…[the independent review will]…examine the feasibility of UEFA, the EU institutions and the member states launching a European-wide ‘supporters direct movement’ (a thriving example of which exists in England) to improve the opportunity for supporters to take part in the running of their professional club.’
Responding to the news, Chief Executive of SD, Phil French, said “This is a welcome and ringing endorsement for the work of Supporters Direct and its members across England and Scotland. The issues that the review are facing, such as governance, financial management, community engagement, fall squarely into the aims and ambitions of the supporters’ trust movement.”
Supporters Direct has already had contact with supporters’ groups in Norway, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Belgium, Italy and the Czech Republic, alongside carrying out its highly successful work in the UK, that recently saw Brentford as the thirteenth club to fall into supporters’ trust control. A number of other clubs are also part-owned by their trusts, including League-One highfliers Swansea City and recently with the community buyout at Raith rovers in Scotland.
Phil French added, “The question for most independent observers will be just what will emerge from this review in terms of meaningful output. Everyone is aware that the game is currently awash with reviews by various governing bodies, and people will be acutely aware that the Burns Report on The FA from last year has so far delivered nothing. What is distinctive in this review is the European political will behind it. The Minister for Sport and UEFA should be applauded for the recognition that Supporters’ Direct is to be a key part of the process of inquiry, and we hope of the resulting recommendations.”
-----------------------Statement Ends---------------------
EDITOR’S NOTES:
• Supporters Direct is a government initiative, funded by public money, with offices in London and Glasgow.
• We have assisted in setting up over 130 supporters' trusts in England and Scotland. With a combined membership of over 115,000 people, supporters' trusts have now put over £11 million into football and control 13 football clubs.
For further information, including a logo, please contact:
Kevin Rye (Press and Communications) on 020 7608 7254/07932 067425/press@supporters-direct.org
Thursday 16th February 2006
Valentine’s Ball
GST were delighted with the outcome of the recent Valentine’s Ball, held at The Great Hall, Priestfield Stadium. This was the second such event held by the Trust, with plans for more to follow.
Over two hundred attended the function, hosted by Eastenders star Lucy Speed – Natalie to you and I. An excellent dinner was provided by our friends from Compass, and music on the night came courtesy of “Rise”.
Thanks to the generosity of our corporate sponsors, and those attending on the night, a sum in excess of £4,700 was raised for Trust funds – a magnificent effort.
It seems bar takings must have been healthy too, resulting in raffle winner Dave Haines staggering off without his newly-acquired TV! Needless to say, it is now back with its rightful owner.
Looking ahead, the next event will be a Halloween Dinner/Dance, again at Priestfield, on Friday 13th October. Details of ticket prices and entertainment will be released shortly, and all members are encouraged to come along. Not only do these functions help raise funds for club and community, they provide a great night out. Give it a try.
Friday 20th January 2006
Supporters Trusts London & South East Regional Group Meeting
On Thursday evening board members of the Gillingham Supporters Trust attended the newly formed London & South East Regional Group for supporter’s trusts.
Representatives from premiership Arsenal down to the smallest club of Dulwich Hamlet were able to share their experiences of running a trust and report on the issues facing each club. The event was held at the head offices of Supporters Direct the executive body funded by Sport England that since its creation has assisted in the formation of 140 football supporters trusts.
Watford Supporters Trust warned of the dangers of the stadium being sold to a developer leaving a club without its own ground. They successfully campaigned to buy back the stadium.
The executive committee of Gillingham Supporters Trust will discuss some of the recommendations at their next meeting.
Friday 9th December 2005
Supporters Trust Valentines Ball
Gillingham Supporters Trust is to hold another fundrasing event at Priestfield Banqueting Rooms, Priestfield Stadium, on Friday 10th February 2006.
Pricing for corporate sponsors for tables of ten is £500 each, previous sponsors at £475, individuals can buy tickets too, at just £45 per person, or £40 for Trust members.
Further details to follow.
Friday 1st July 2005
Joint Press Release: Supporters Direct/AFC Wimbledon/FC United of Manchester
AFC and FC are United on July 23rd
AFC Wimbledon and FC United of Manchester - the club formed by fans after the unpopular takeover of Manchester United by Malcolm Glazer - will compete for the Supporters Direct Trust Cup at The Fans' Stadium - Kingsmeadow, on Sat 23rd July, kick-off 3pm.
The Supporters Direct Trust Cup has been competed for previously by AFC Wimbledon, League One side Brentford and Enfield Town - all clubs that are owned or operated by their supporters.
Kris Stewart, Chief Executive of AFC Wimbledon, welcomed the fixture, saying, "Since the formation of FC United, this was one fixture that everyone at Wimbledon wanted. The anticipation amongst our fans has been palpable. We have nothing but respect and admiration for what FC United are doing, and this fixture will be a celebration of fan ownership, as well as being a keenly contested fixture. It's been quite some time since we beat a team from the red side of Manchester."
Official spokesman for FC United of Manchester, Jules Spencer, commented, "This is a landmark occasion for everyone involved and the birth of a new club and we are grateful to all involved for their efforts to make this happen. For years as fans, we have had to suffer ridiculous kick off times, overpriced tickets and saturated TV coverage which is all contributing towards forcing people out of the game whose loyalty has never been in question. This match will show people yet again that there is an alternative and I'm looking forward to a game that kicks off at 3pm on a Saturday! This fixture will hopefully be the start of a long and successful partnership between the two clubs."
Supporters Direct Chief Executive Phil French, said, "I am sure many people will be looking forward to this highly significant game which is another piece of football history in the making. Since 2002, AFC Wimbledon have stood as an example of what fans can do collectively, and I am sure FC United of Manchester can learn a huge amount from their continuing success. They are part of an ever-growing group of clubs that are democratic, not-for-profit and community focused and we are hugely optimistic that an increasing number of clubs will adopt this model of ownership in the future."
Other events are being planned for the day, and fans are advised to get there early to take advantage of what will be an exciting fixture.
The gate money from the match will also be shared between both clubs.
Tickets are already selling fast for the fixture, with large numbers of fans expected to travel down from Manchester. With Wimbledon averaging crowds of over 3,000, it is advised that people buy tickets in advance.
A ticket hotline, available on weekdays only between 10.00 am and 8.00 pm has been set up. Please call on 020 8546 9582.
Further information about the fixture and the events on the day will be released in the run up to the match.
Thursday 25th November 2004
The State of the Game - The Corporate Governance of Professional Football Clubs 2004
The Football Governance Research Centre is launching its fourth annual State of the Game report focusing on the governance of the football industry.
This year’s report focuses on trends in the corporate governance of clubs and for the first time includes analysis of the Football Conference. The report also reviews developments in regulation by the football authorities, and considers the role of stakeholders including supporters’ trusts, and local authorities, assessing their contribution to promoting and enhancing the sustainability of football clubs.
The extension of football clubs’ involvement in their community will enhance their financial strength. I see the work of the Birkbeck’s Football Governance Research Centre contributing to the achievement of this goal. I am therefore pleased to welcome this year’s State of the Game survey.
Sir Trevor Brooking, Director of Football Development, The FA
For details, visit
http://www.football-research.bbk.ac.uk
Tuesday 26 October 2004
MK Dons Supporters Open Letter
Open Letter to all Chairs of Supporter Trusts in England, Scotland and Wales from the MK Dons Supporters Association.
As you may or may not be aware, the MK Dons Supporters Association has been endeavouring to work with Supporters Direct for over 6 months to establish the MK Dons Trust, and become a full member of Supporters Direct.
We are aware that the approach has resulted in some controversy, and a wide variety of views being established as to whether this should happen or not. We have decided that the time is now right for us to put forward our position, explain a few of our views on the events gone by, and set out the future direction we would like to take the MK Dons Trust.
The Past
We feel that it is important for a differentiation to be made between the fans of football in Milton Keynes and the events over which we have had no control, which resulted in Wimbledon FC moving to our town and becoming MK Dons. There is a widespread condemnation of “franchising” throughout football, and this is not an opinion where you see any variation of opinion in MK. We firmly believe that the right place for a club is in the conurbation where it was established. When Wimbledon was allowed to move out of its community hub, to Selhurst Park and then stay there for a decade, it is clear to us that these links had been weakened, contributing to the clubs destiny.
We do believe that when all avenues have been explored, it is a better outcome for the club to survive in Milton Keynes, than die in London. These were the 2 options available. Now that the club is in our community, we will support it and endeavour to keep it alive. This is very much in line with the view shared by both the FA and Supporters Direct, who both view MK Dons as a continuation of Wimbledon Football Club.
The Present
We feel we have a unique perspective on what it is like when a club goes through the turmoil that Wimbledon went through. It gives us a view of the damage that could be done to our game, and the pain it can cause. We feel this perspective is one which has not been heard much, but we are keen to contribute to the debate, and share our experiences. This may sound like poacher turned gamekeeper to some. It isn’t. We want to support the next group of fans that finds themselves in a similar situation, should it be Gillingham, Brighton, Wrexham, whoever. Even better would be to stop it ever being an option again through serious lobbying and action. We want to contribute to that effort.
The Future.
We are no different to any other trust in our opinion of how they should work with the club they are aligned to, and will actively work to gain recognition, participation, and ultimately a stake in the club for its supporters.
Because of our unique position, we understand that Supporters Direct is unable to fund the establishment of the MK Dons Trust. As the FA view the MK Dons as a continuation of Wimbledon FC, Supporters Direct believe that we are not eligible to further funding, beyond that given the establish the Dons Trust, now aligned with AFC Wimbledon. We do not intend to pursue this any further at the moment.
We will meet the necessary expenses to establish the MK Dons Trust from our own resources. We have asked Supporters Direct to give us access to their model paperwork for the procedural and legal requirements to do this though, as we believe the best practice that they have established is obviously the most appropriate path for us to take.
We have also asked Supporters Direct to accept the MK Dons Trust (when it is established) as a full member of the organisation. At this level we feel that as football fans we have as much to offer as any other Trust that is part of the movement. We want to constructively contribute to the debates and actions that affect the game we all love. We want to support the national organisations of the game such as Supporters Direct and the Football Supporters Federation, not only bringing the voice and unique experiences to the table, but to help make our game the best it possibly can be for everyone who supports it.
Our request.
We believe that the time is right for the fans of MK Dons to be properly represented in Supporters Direct. For the reasons we have outlined, we request that you support our request for membership, and grant us access to the tools to help us be an effective trust for our fans, and to be able to contribute to Supporters direct in the most effective way possible.
Should you have discussions about MK Dons and Supporters Direct, we would appreciate you making a clear mental division between the fans of the club who believe the club should live, albeit in Milton Keynes, and the contentious issues of its past.
We would like to Thankyou for your time. Should you wish to contact us, you can do so either via the address at the top of this letter, or via the email address that you received this letter from. If you wish, we would be happy to schedule a phone call with you to discuss the issues and our request further. We also plan to be at the Supporters Direct conference on Thursday in London, and would be happy to chat with you then.
MK Dons Supporters Association
Thursday 21 October 2004
Supporters Direct Press Release
Gordon Brown to address the fans
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt. Hon. Gordon Brown MP, is to speak to football fans from all over the country at the 4th Supporters Direct National Conference, next Thursday 28th October at the British Library in London.
The Chancellor, a Raith Rovers supporter, was unable to appear in person, so is recording a video message to be broadcast to delegates from Supporters Trusts from all over the UK, which will be the first time a Chancellor has addressed a national gathering of football fans.
The Chancellor announced a review of the tax position of Supporters Trusts in last year's Pre-Budget Report, with the outcome due to be announced towards the end of the year.
Mr Brown's message will be the seal of approval for an initiative that has grown from a small idea from the football task force in 1999 to an organisation that has formed over 100 trusts that have brought £10M into the game and helped save countless clubs from extinction.
Also addressing the conference will be Sir Brian Mawhinney, Chairman of The Football League, and Mick McGuire, Deputy Chief Executive of the PFA, and with representatives from the game's governing bodies, including the Premier League and Nationwide Football Conference already confirmed, the gathering will be the high point of the last four years of hard work across the trust movement.
Fans will later discuss issues affecting the game, including securing fans representation within the FA as part of the review of the governing body, and will hear from representatives from the supporters' trust currently fighting to prevent a takeover of Manchester United.
Respected journalist and writer, David Conn, will also be launching his new book 'The Beautiful Game? Searching for the Soul of Football", at a reception on the day.
The event is also being supported by Random House, publishers of the sporting imprint 'Yellow Jersey Press', football administrators Grant Thornton, football magazine When Saturday Comes, Cobbetts Solicitors of Manchester and the Co-op Bank.
Monday 11 October 2004
Resignation of Chairman
"Gillingham Supporters Trust announces the resignation of Chairman Nigel Holland, with immediate effect, citing personal reasons for his decision to step down. Nigel will remain a member of the Trust board, and will continue to assist in the activities of the organization to the maximum possible. He relinquishes the Chairmanship with the full support and understanding of his board colleagues. Chris White, formerly Vice-Chairman, was unanimously elected to succeed Nigel as Chairman, and Company Secretary David Scudder will in future handle media affairs."
For further information contact David Scudder on 07740 094136.
Wednesday 22 September 2004
STAND UP SIT DOWN
STAND UP SIT DOWN was launched in July as a new initiative for a common sense solution to the issue of standing.
We propose that at least one area of each ground be selected where supporters would be permitted to stand in front of their allocated seats.
It is not just a campaign for standing, but to restore choice for all supporters. This is an issue about which many supporters feel very strongly, and we are proposing a compromise solution, as an alternative to the current conflict and increasing sanctions by the authorities..
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To date we have 750 members and over 2000 signatures on our petition, from supporters of more than 110 clubs. The average age of members is around 30. About 10% say they prefer to sit and 90% stand.
We have received encouraging replies from some clubs, and others agree privately, but are unwilling to be quoted. We have met with both the Premier League and the Football League, and are seeking a meeting with the FLA. We have also been invited to address the Safety Committee for West Ham, which will be an opportunity to put our proposals to various bodies, including the police & FLA.
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Many of our members came via online forums, but tended to come in groups from each club, while the thread was on the top page. We hope that this new post will generate further interest, and update those who are already aware of the campaign..
For full details, visit
http://www.standupsitdown.co.uk
Please both sign the petition and join the campaign, as the more members we have, the greater will be our influence..
A summary of our proposed solution and its benefits follows:.
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Tuesday 6 July 2004
Folkestone Away GST Minibus
The supporters trust minibus pickup point will be outside the Blues Rock Café at 18:00 tomorrow. Expected arrival at Folkestone Invicta is 19:00 kick off is at 19:45.
We have a few seats available by sending a booking request to the following email address.
minibus@gillinghamsupporterstrust.co.uk
Please include your name and phone number to confirm booking.
No smoking and no alcohol on the minibus.
A typical donation of £5.00 would cover the cost.
Match tickets are
ADMISSION:
ADULT: £8.00 (seated) or £7.00 (standing)
CHILD / OAP: £3.50 (seated) or £3.00 (standing)
NB. Kids Free at Cheriton Road when with an Adult (Maximum of 2 per Adult)
The minibus will be available for all the pre-season games.
When it is not being used for matches it is available for use by other local community groups and our members.
Tuesday 29 June 2004
Membership Secretary Appointed
At the committee meeting last night Gerry Jasper was appointed as the new membership secretary.
Monday 21 June 2004
Supporters Trust Mid Summer Ball
Gillingham Supporters Trust would like to formally thank our guests and sponsors for their generosity in supporting our fundraising dinner on Saturday.
Over two hundred people attended and we received very positive feedback from many of our friends on the quality of the event at Priestfield which augers well for the future. It has turned out to have been another huge success.
Everyone who sold corporate tables or who secured raffle prizes, auction items, or donations did a great job. The funds raised will enable the trust to continue with key projects for the community.
Monday 14 June 2004
Wrexham Save the Racecourse Ground
Hello, I am a Wrexham fan, im sure youre probably aware of our dire
situation at the club. The Wrexham Independant Supporters Group (WINS)
need more ways of raising funds, could you please tell me some of your
methods of fundraising.
Thank you, Tony Harrison.
P.S. I would appreciate it if you would post our petition URL to save the racecourse ground.
• Save the Racecourse Ground
http://www.petitiononline.com/WREXHAM
Friday 11 June 2004
The Football League test Club Directors
The Football League has introduced the first ‘Fit and Proper Persons’ test for Club Directors.
The ground-breaking decision was unanimously taken by clubs at The League’s AGM in Chester and represents a further stride forward by The League in its desire to promote good governance and transparency in the game.
All current League club directors will provide The League with a declaration by July 31 indicating that they meet the criteria and as such are a fit and proper person to hold office at a League club.
More information from the Football League
http://www.football-league.premiumtv.co.uk
Monday 10 May 2004
Email to Trust Chairman Nigel Holland
Thanks for your support of Nationwide over the past 8
years
Dear
Nigel
Thanks for your support of Nationwide over the past 8 years. As The
Football League sponsor we have been very proud to support you and your club.
It has been fantastic to see the game develop in this time with
attendances increasing across all 3 Divisions by 31% to 14.8 million and
television audiences growing to just under 25 million viewers per season.
Our sponsorship has spanned 8 seasons, covering 13,248 League Matches,
96 Play Off Semi Finals and 24 Play Off Finals.
In this time we have
given much back to the fans and communities of the 72 clubs involved and
rewarded those who continue to work for the benefit of the players and the fans.
Nationwide has:-
- Given away over 150,000 match tickets
- Contributed over £6million to support community initiatives focusing on
youth, women and disadvantaged groups
- Supported individual club activities
- Recognised and rewarded the efforts of 240 Managers
- Rewarded groundsmen from each division for the quality and dedication of
their work.
Nationwide will continue to support your club through its
involvement as an Official Partner of The FA Cup and will unite with you behind
your country in the forthcoming Euro 2004 and World Cup Qualifiers through our
international sponsorships of The England, Wales and Scotland National Teams.
I would like to wish you all the best of luck for next season and hope
your club realises its ambitions.
Yours sincerely, 
Philip Williamson
Chief
Executive, Nationwide Building Society