To: Sports Desk

Press Release

At the AGM of the Walsall Supporters' Trust, held in the Council Chambers at Walsall MBC, Richard Hall, Steve Shaw, Bob Bates, David Roe, Paul Jones and Phil Sturgess were elected to the Trust Board. These six officials will need to co-opt a further three Board members from the local community in order to ensure the effective running of the Trust.

The 22 members who attended the AGM discussed ways in which the Trust could positively influence the relationship between Walsall FC and the community of Walsall. Fundraising, membership and shareholder support were seen to be key areas in the short-term. Bob Bates, the secretary of the Trust, noted that he had been in negotiation with several shareholders of Walsall FC Ltd about the use or purchase of their shares. He said "these negotiations have been very positive and show the willingness of the Trust to work proactively and constructively."

In the event of the Trust gaining a shareholding, it will be up to the Trust Board to demonstrate to the Directors of Walsall FC that they represent a responsible organisation which is working for the good of the community. The Chair of the Trust, Richard Hall, said that "with the uncertainty over the transfer system, it becomes more imperative that clubs look to work with their local communities to ensure their future as local resources." The Trust Board will be in contact with Mr Whalley in the very near future in order to start a dialogue with the club.

The Trust is attempting to forge a community of fans of all ages, which can work to promote an inclusive approach at Walsall FC. The working party are creating the foundations for elected officers to move the Trust and the community of Walsall forward in their relationship with the football club.