Fans gather to vent their views as club relegation looms
SOUTHPORT FC’s official supporters trust will hold an open meeting next week over concerns for the club’s future.
The club is facing almost certain relegation to the Vanarama League North following a season which has involved three managers and more than 50 players.
Fans have increasingly become disillusioned over a lack of stability at the club, where player and manager turnover is among the highest in the country.
Despite positive movements off the pitch, including a raft of new sponsors, increased commercial activity and the appointment of three new directors earlier this season, Southport have persistently struggled on the pitch, losing their latest game at home against Macclesfield Town on Tuesday night.
In response to supporters’ concerns, Trust in Yellow has arranged the meeting for both members and non-members to source opinions and ideas and what is needed to turn around the club’s fortunes.
In a statement announcing the meeting, the trust said that it wanted to discuss ideas for the future strategy and direction of the club and how supporter involvement in the club could be improved and what positive benefits this would bring.
A spokseman for Trust in Yellow said: “The board of Trust in Yellow realises it does not speak for all members and supporters and feel it is essential that all Southport FC supporters, including those who have drifted away in recent years, are able to put forward their views on how we can help get the club moving in the right direction once again.
“The meeting will be chaired by Martin Robinson from the trust and, after brief opening statements by the trust’s vice-chair, Noel Warham, and the founder of Trust In Yellow, Jonathan O’Byrne, it will be open to all present to add to the debate.
“The only condition is that contributions should be constructive and not contain derogatory comments.
“We appreciate not all supporters will be able to attend the meeting and so welcome comments sent in advance to trustinyellow278@gmail.com
“These contributions will also be considered when an open letter is written to the club board after the meeting.”
The meeting will be held at 7.30pm on Tuesday, April 11 at the Southport Railway Club, Sussex Road.