CHARLIE STILL IN THE MIX AT PORT

THE saga at Southport has taken yet another turn after local millionaire Phil Hodgkinson claimed the club’s former chairman Charlie Clapham ignored his offer for the club as new owners were this week confirmed. Controversial Clapham resigned last month, but has remained on the relegated National League club’s board of directors. Hodgkinson, the CEO of Pure Business Group Limited, who sold his last company for £13m, has gone public, claiming proposals have not been responded to after vowing to pump much of his personal fortune into the struggling club. Fans fear Clapham, in charge of the Sandgrounders since 1982, is trying to retain a say at Haig Avenue. Hodgkinson said: “I can confirm publicly that I made a formal written offer to acquire a majority shareholding in Southport FC last week. The offer was, I believe, presented at a board meeting on Wednesday this week, as of today I have received no acknowledgement or response to that offer. “To say I am not surprised is a massive understatement, I have put together a blueprint for the future of the club underlining my intentions, level of investment, fan engagement, ground improvements, new stadium and many other things. It is a shame the club have chosen to ignore this genuine and sincere offer. “I would welcome direct engagement with the fans and trust, as the club clearly have no intention of communication.” In a joint statement, Shandley and Treadwell said: “We have now made a significant investment in the club as long-term supporters, and are both looking forward to shaping the future of the club. “Transitioning control of a football club is not an easy process. Charlie Clapham has clearly indicated his intention to stand down from all positions, allowing a new and independent board of directors to take control.”