Club prepares for future with new owners
Fareham Town FC are looking for new owners for the first time in more than 20 years.
The Wessex League Premier Division club has been run by members of building company Ralls Group since April 2001.
Bob Ralls was initially installed as chairman - replacing Chris Solen - with nephew Nick as the principal shareholder.
Nick took over as chairman in early 2008, the same year that Fareham were also put up for sale.
Now interested buyers are again being sought for the Creeksiders, who finished the 2022/23 Wessex League season with an average crowd of 300 - the second best in the league.
The only club with a bigger average attendance was neighbours AFC Portchester, who averaged 455 - a figure boosted by a Wessex League record crowd of 1,598 against Fareham on a Bank Holiday in early January.
A club statement said: ‘The owners have made this decision in the best interests of the club, its fans, and the local community, with the aim of ensuring a bright future for Fareham Town FC.
‘The club is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated buyer who is passionate about the beautiful game and committed to furthering the success of Fareham Town FC.
‘Interested parties are encouraged to make an offer and present their vision for the club so that the current owners can evaluate the best possible option for the future of Fareham Town FC.
Anyone keen on buying a club in the ninth tier of English football are being asked to email secretary Jason Brooker at secretary@farehamtownfc.co.uk
Brooker told The News he has already had some enquiries, while other committee members and Nick Ralls, the club chairman, have also been contacted.
Brooker said there was no timeline on when declarations of interest had to be made by.
The statement continued: ‘Fareham Town FC is a celebrated club that has been an integral part of the Wessex Premier League and the local community.
‘The club boasts a dedicated fanbase, a rich history, and an exciting future. The new owner will have the opportunity to build on this strong foundation and lead the club into a new era of success, both on and off the pitch.’