Fans’ backlash ends Dave’s hopes of big match return
ROCHDALE FC will have a new matchday announcer next season after a fan backlash against the planned reappointment of former club DJ Dave Sweetmore.
Scores of supporters took to the message board to criticise the ‘disgraceful’ treatment of new announcer Eden Bearshaw after it emerged the club had offered Dave his old job back at last Sunday’s game against Bradford City.
It came after Eden was introduced to fans on the pitch at the Crown Oil Arena last month.
But on Wednesday the club announced that following a ‘series of meetings’ Eden will be starting in his new role from next season.
IN a statement the club said: “Rochdale Football Club can confirm that there have been no changes to the already announced appointment of Eden Bearshaw as the club’s new matchday announcer.
“Eden will start his new role in pre-season, taking over from Dave Sweetmore who announced his departure after 17-years last month.
“Following Dave’s return to Rochdale, it had been hoped that Eden could work alongside Dave, in order to further enhance the club’s matchday experience, but following a series of scheduled meetings, including today, we can announce that this will not put into practice.”
Dave, who had previously announced he was leaving Rochdale to take up a new job in the Lake District, before a last minute change of heart saw him return to his home town, said: ““On returning to Rochdale I was delighted to be asked back to the club, in a role working alongside the newly appointed stadium announcer.
“After several planned discussions over the last three weeks, we, as a collective, have now reached the decision to continue as planned, with Eden solely taking on the role, and I again wish him the very best of luck.
“The club has been a huge part of my life for 17-years and I will miss working alongside the most friendly, hard-work- ing and committed staff in the league.
“My heart lies with Rochdale and always will. Some of my best friends are here, and the club know I will always be around if needed.”
Eden added: “We explored the possibility of a dual role on matchdays over three weeks ago, but following further discussions over the last couple of weeks and then again today involving all three parties, I felt that this wouldn’t be a viable proposition.
“I understand the club’s perspective of looking into Dave Sweetmore being involved back at the club following his return to Rochdale, but I was keen to solely take up the role and we have both reached a mutual understanding that it is in the best interest of all parties to move forward in this way.
“I have always looked up to Dave in his role here at the club and I hope to keep up his high standards. I would like to thank Dave for his support and understanding on this matter.”