28 March 2008
Latest Winner of Director's Box Places
Trust member, Martin Prew, is the latest winner of 2 places in the Director's
Box, and will take advantage of them at the Conference match against Halifax
on Saturday 29th March.
Martin was first on the list of ten potential winners and was delighted to
accept the prize.
Also on the list for this prize were: Ian Parsons, Andrew Saunders, Darren
Burns, Kayleigh Marie Searle, Ria Webber, Edward Beattie, Bryn Jones, Margaret
Bond and Dave Scotting.
The geographical spread this time was: 4 from Exeter, 5 from other EX post
codes (Budliegh Salterton, Broadclyst, Chudleigh, Sidford and Crediton), plus
one from Southampton.
Don't forget if your details are not correct on the database you may miss
out so make sure they are accurate now by checking at www.ecfcst.org.uk/members
- you will have to register first but it may well be worth the trouble!
The Trust Board of Society and the Club Board have agreed to make two
Director's Box places available at each home game.
The two places will be for Trust members and are allocated by way of
a random draw from the membership database.
31 March 2008
Exeter City Supporters' Trust is increasing its financial support to the Grecians
In the next financial year, the Trust will up its annual contribution to
the St James’s Park club’s coffers to £65,000 - an increase
of 8 per cent on the figure for 2007-08.
The Trust has already pumped a staggering £850,000 into the football
club.
The Board of Society (BoS) has recently approved a three-year budget, which
will see the Trust’s annual contribution increase to £64,800 in
2008-09 and, it is anticipated, £75,600 in 2009-10 and £78,000
in 2010-11.
The Trust’s treasurer Nigel Bank’s explained: “The club
board has been informed of the Trust’s increased contribution next year
and the indicative contributions in future years. This is paid as a fixed
monthly sum and will provide a regular cashflow throughout the year.
“It is important to recognise that up to the end of this financial year,
the Trust has provided in excess of £850,000 cash to the football club,”
added Banks. “That sum - which has been provided without restriction,
as will be the case with all future contributions - has been utilised by the
club board to underpin the entire operation.
“It’s importance cannot be underestimated. Put simply, if the
Trust had not provided significant financial support in recent years, Exeter
City might not exist today.”
He implored all those Grecian fans who have not yet joined the Trust to do
so today.
“We are the most successful Trust-owned club in the country and this
position can be maintained and emphasised if everyone with a little bit of
Exeter City in their heart signs up for the Trust,” exhorted Banks.
“We’ve already got 2,000-plus members and that is fantastic but
we won’t be satisfied until everyone who goes to the Park week-in, week-out
is signed up.”
Besides increasing its cash contribution to the club in 2008-09, the Trust
is also looking forward to repaying those supporters who loaned it significant
sums, totalling in excess of £20,000, when it became the majority shareholder
of the Blue Sq Premiership club in the summer of 2003.
The Trust is also undertaking a review of its operations, which will include
consideration of a number of income generation opportunities. Schemes such
as the Grecian Trust, run by Barry Sansom, are in their infancy but it is
hoped that they will, in time, generate significant additional income which
can be ploughed back into the club.
In terms of its budget forecast, Banks said the Trust intends to operate with
a relatively low level of cash reserves, around 15 per cent of its annual
turnover. After the loans are repaid in 2008-09, its annual contribution to
the club will represent broadly 85 per cent of its subscription income.
You can join the Trust by visiting www.ecfcst.org.uk/howjoin
or by collecting an application form from the old club office prior to any
home match.
27 March 2008
Exeter City Fans Forum 6th March 2008
The forum was compered by Giles Ashman and facilitated by Richard Knight.
About 130 fans attended.
It had been intended to have a legends forum as part of the evening. Unfortunately
Cecil Smyth was unwell and Jimmy Giles was away in Portugal. It was hoped
to have a legends forum later in the year.
Consequently the running order was: -
[1] New Players forum
[2] Club Directors forum
New players forum
Present to answer questions were Andy Marriot, Steve Basham, Paul Tisdale,
Andy Taylor, Neil Saunders & Matt Taylor.
To get the ball rolling the majority of early questions were asked by Giles
who had some written ones from fans.
Andy Taylor
“How has the club changed?”
There has been massive progress. The club was in turmoil when relegated with
a transfer embargo. For the first time I fell there is a strong foundation
here.
“Your best memory?”
The FA Cup games versus Man Utd. Saved the club from winding up and great
to go back to Old Trafford as a player.
“What’s been the effect after Wembley & what are
the current ambitions?”
The players keep it at the back of their mind. It’s a driving force
for each game to get there again and go one better..
“Other play-off teams have done worse than us this season.
Any hangovers?”
Not presently. We have new players in now and are a better side.
Steve Basham
“Most memorable game?”
My full debut at Man Utd when 18 or 19. Playing for Southampton was a boyhood
dream. My local team.
“The most enjoyable club?”
There’s good or bad at every club. Southampton was enjoyable obviously.
At Preston we had a string of very good results and very nearly made the Premiership.
“Most inspiration?”
Alan Shearer. Both from watching him live and on TV.
“Next career move?”
I want to stay in the game - probably coaching. I’m not so sure about
managing. Would like to be hands on. Probably working with youngsters.
Neil Saunders
“What’s Matt Taylor’s scoring secret?”
Not sure at all. Certainly had the Team Bath players puzzled ‘cause
he never did it there! Seriously though he’s very good on timing runs
and dead ball delivery.
“Did you really nutmeg Gianluca Vialli?”
Yes. I tell this story as often as I can. It happened in a Watford training
session and he wasn’t best pleased.
“Roast dinner or steak & chips?” (Knowing
laughter from players and an embarrassed ‘Oops’ from Giles - ‘I’m
only reading what’s on the cards!’).
I think this is the wrong audience to answer that. My mother might be listening.
Next question!
“Who’s the longest in shower?” (More titters)
Because I’ve been injured I’m not best qualified to answer. However
I have noticed Richard Logan hanging around a lot!
Matt Taylor
“How is it at Exeter?”
Really enjoyed it so far. It was a big step to move down from Team Bath but
no regrets. There’s a big difference since coming to Exeter. At Team
Bath there were certain games you had to be up for. Here there are no ‘weak’
games. No room for any mistakes.
“What were your achievement targets?”
To settle in most of all. To get into the first team. Initially to have a
good pre-season and impress the manager.
Andy Marriot
“You’re an ex Torquay keeper. Have there been any approaches?”
No. Anyway going back is a definite no-no. I was concerned at first about
local rivalries but felt welcomed.
“I work at the Clyst St Mary sandwich shop. I’ve noticed
quite a few of you players in there?”
Definitely. Some days after training it’s like wacky races to get to
the shop first!
“Career highlights for you?”
My debut against Manchester Utd when at Nottingham Forest. We got a 1-0 win.
3 days later I played against Southampton at Wembley ZDF final.. Then the
League cup final v Manchester Utd again. Of course the careers still going.
I reckon I’ve got 2 or 3 years left to play and wouldn’t want
another move.
“What do you think of and how do you get on with Paul Jones?”
He’s potentially top class and eventually should play at a much higher
level. Has all the attributes. Together with Mel Gwynett there’s lots
of input. I can help him by looking back on my own career. Help to avoid mistakes.
Keepers usually get on at clubs. They are there own breed. I’ve not
known bad blood at any club.
Questions were then invited from the audience for any player.
To Andy Taylor - “What does being captain mean to you?”
I’m very proud. It’s my home town team. I feel I’m a good
talker. A communicator who leads by example.
To Neil Saunders - “When will you be in the team? How’s
the injury?”
It’s very disappointing. The main thing is to get back fit as soon as
possible. The boys are doing well so making the first team is another matter.
Congratulations were offered to Matt Taylor for being runner up in
Blue Square player of the month contest for February.
For Andy Taylor - “Manchester United. How did it feel?”
Going back within 3 years was special. My injury had shattered my hopes. We
all saw the fans when we came out of tunnel and heard them all the way through
the game.
To Matt Taylor & Neil Saunders - “You share lodgings with
George Friend. Who’s the tidiest?”
Definitely not Matt.
To Paul Tisdale - “How would you compare this year to the last?”
Expectations are higher. We have a stronger squad now. More consistent and
in good shape. Other teams expected to do well have struggled. Someone told
me no team losing a play-off final in this league has made the following play
offs. There was definitely a carry over. Lots of teams are already preparing
for the next year (especially if mid table). We couldn’t do that that
last season with the final on 20th May. Some players we thought would stay
didn’t. We had to have a League mindset which had a definite effect.
Then there were injuries at the start of season. We didn’t get as many
points as we wanted but still picked up plenty.
To Paul Tisdale - “Now we only have the league to concentrate
on. What’s your view on the number of games with the cup competitions?”
Hindsight a great thing. With the big FA Trophy run prior to my arriving there
were backlogs. But at the semi-final stage it can be a real carrot to the
players. We do now have the benefit of concentrating on one competition.
To Paul Tisdale - “A new striker yet?”
Adam is to be fit shortly. 2 other good strikers already in Steve & Richard.
Maybe Matty? (Knowing look at Matt Taylor) But the area does need strengthening.
We had it last year. I like consistency - to evolve & develop. I want
to breed a ‘very difficult to get contract at ECFC’ culture. We
have said no to some players without the right mindset. Not just for the first
team but also the reserves and the youth. That’s how we’ve developed
players like Deano, Friend, & Seaborne. As for a centre forward - we’ve
been looking since January 1st. He has to have an instant impact or be happy
to develop & earn a place. I won’t agree to an automatic first team
or long contract deal. He mustn’t rock the boat but has to complement
current players. Adam is back jogging today. He won’t play at York.
We have a great medical team. When Matty was injured on new years day he’d
seen a consultant by Wednesday. He then had an operation and was back playing
within 2 weeks.
To Paul Tisdale - “Jamie Mudge?”
He’s training with us. He needed match fitness. It’s a possibility
but he’s not earnt his chance yet. The reserve team is important. Players
are expected to do well in the reserves and training - then the first team.
Ryan Harley is an example - will have impact between now and end of season.
To Paul Tisdale - “Has it been a difficult year regarding assistants?”
We lost at Wembley. Then, in preseason - no assistant manager. Joe Gallen
came but had to go to Millwall. Russell Osman has helped - particularly with
Matt T & Seaborne. Steve Perryman is a huge assistance. People who come
in to the club find it easy to settle in. John Yems is working for us in a
capacity at the moment so by time he starts officially on July 1st will have
a great understanding. He understands this league and professional leagues
inside out. Joe Gallen didn’t (coming from an academy background). It
wasn’t Russell’s forte either. John is a professional. Fully licensed,
and has worked with the USA under 21s. He’s a very good ally. John Yems
actually applied in the summer but we picked Joe Gallen. However, we stayed
in touch. There is a mutual trust. This time he was the first name on the
list.
Paul Tisdale then gave his run down on the players at the forum.
Andy Marriot - Chosen for his experience & focus. Very
good on the technical side. Great work ethic. He loves training.
Steve Basham - A good young striker. A very clever player.
Gives us balance & chemistry. Both Jamie Mackie & Adam Stansfield
have benefited from him creating space.
Neil Saunders - Had 3 years at Team Bath. Is an attack minded
midfielder like John Challinor. Was the captain of Team Bath
Matt Taylor - Knew him from University Football. In the
England Universities Team. I signed him for Team Bath 1 week before I took
the Exeter job. Brought him in as Chris Todd’s understudy. I like my
defenders to be staunch, solid, consistent.
Andy Taylor - Does a good job as team captain. Not just
the player’s representative but also manager’s representative
to the players. It’s not an easy position. Continues throughout the
6 non playing days.
General questions to Paul continued ....
“What’s your role after kick-off? What informs your substitutions?”
Some people have mentioned my behavioural style. I am well & truly involved
but if I lose my emotions then I can’t expect players to keep theirs.
You have to have respect for the officials and trust for the players. It’s
no good screaming at mistakes. Staying calm allows for better decisions -
a focus for clear decisions. If the game has taken shape then I can enjoy
it and encourage the players more.
As for substitution Again I trust players. There are 6 days of information
available during the week. There are various tactical & personal factors
to consider. Stansfield came off against Kidderminster - an unpopular decision
at the time - because he had been unwell for 4 days.
“What’s the chemistry for strikers?”
Each player is different. Playing 4-4-2 I like one player to control, to flick
on and one to get behind the defence. Bash & Logan are similar. As the
team gets better other teams offer less space behind. Richard & Steve
can play together. Every game is different.
“Fans seem nervous lately even when we’re 2-0 up?”
Last year we were poor starters so we needed a good second half. This year
we are starting well - often scoring first - so the other team changes their
approach. It’s a good problem to have. We are very close to improving
to the point were we could go 3 or 4 up.
“Why are you seen out and about just before kick off?”
Often something changes between 2 & 3 o’clock. The other team changes
so I need 45 minutes to prepare and be able to explain those changes. So I
need that time whilst the players warm up. I get 1 minute at 5 minutes to
3 to explain those changes and give instructions. At a quarter to three I
address the players. At 5 minutes to 3 I give final instructions. I also have
5 minutes at half time.
Club Directors forum
The second half of the forum was for questions to the Club directors.
Three were present - Paul Morrish (Commercial), Julian Tagg (Football) &
Steve Williams (Finance).
Paul Morrish started with a brief run through of the current
situation
Everything about the club is positive now. There is no crisis. The Club feels
much more solid & stable. The football side is both stable and structured
for a higher level. 2 years ago there was a rush to budget. Last year was
better. This year we are already able to start fine tuning.
The Operations team have done a fantastic job to cut overheads and make useful
investment.
Commercial turnover is up from £1.2 million to £2 million
The boardroom structure is OK. We do know that we are very poor at responding
to enquiries and are seeking to improve that.
We have to put some money to one side to support the physical side of things.
We need to support conferencing and matchday hospitality.
Solid improvements …. we now get lots of prospective CVs from people
who want to work for us. Other clubs are asking us what we do. Recently it’s
been West Ham & Portsmouth.
The Princesshay sponsorship is finishing as the project has been built. The
Flybe deal is great and there is more than 1 company out there to replace
Princesshay. We can choose the best fit.
V10? Look at Hereford & Carlisle. It is perfectly possible. If it doesn’t
happen it is not for want of trying.
Julian Tagg then spoke about the Youth Football side.
We now, with links to the College, have two under 18 sides and an U19 side.
John Hodge has got a set up in Cornwall. So there’s lots going on. Paul
Tisdale really believes in it and has involvement with the U15s & U16s.
We have kept it going despite lack of funds.
About John Hodge’s set up. Based in Newquay - it’s like a Football
In The Community set up. Steve Perryman, Paul Tisdale & myself went down
to have a look. We have firm interest in 2 players already. There are plans
for 3 more centres. We’ve bolted on John’s organisation already.
Argyle can obviously outspend us but it’s good to spread the word in
Cornwall on their patch. Some of you may recall Eamo had a team playing in
red & white in the middle of Plymouth.
After 3 or 4 years out of league, as an ex teacher I was upset with lowly
educated players. There is a College system now offering breadth & depth
in study. Paul Tisdale is to decide which college guys to sign. There are
maybe 1 or 2. Offering proper support for players means we can be comfortable
with parents of kids at 8 years old. It’s a ‘cradle to grave’
approach. These kids could be players or they could be coaches. We will also
have 3 or 4 YTS players - allowing us to compete in the Youth Alliance League
versus professional clubs. We’re producing very bright players. At 16
they can be offered Youth Training with 1 and half days education or go on
to the college system. They have a choice. I’m on the Football Conference
board & am trying to convince the FA to use the model across the entire
Conference.
Questions were then put to the directors ….
“Why was the Wembley ticket allocation a shambles last year?”
Steve Williams said his involvement was minimal but thought
it a fantastic effort to get everyone there.
Julian Tagg has spoken to the Conference board direct. He spoke to everyone
involved on the day and prepared a 2 page report. All the points and complaints
raised have been reported. He wanted to change a few things hence he has gotten
onto the Conference board. The Conference management is much improved now.
Brian Lee - the new chair - has a different approach to before. Every effort
will be made this year but it may still not be perfect as there is not enough
time to plan fully.
“Staying at St James Park decision? What are the timescales?”
Paul Morrish said there were 2 parts to this.
The first - to publish our position. It was always on the edge mathematically
as opposed to emotionally. The Drivers Jonas document was good but could not
articulate this. The working group ‘kicked around’ the document
but more was needed. In particular, dealings with the Council. We are unpicking
some difficult relationships from the past. The big unanswered question was
development capacity. So we needed to take the speculation out by stating
the preferred option and having a Trust vote on it. We keep the conversations
going. There is no intention of repeating the problems of the past - with
people with no knowledge having to do it. The second part, the discussion
now, is how to develop and who leads.
Steve Williams took up the theme. My history is that in
1999 I joined with Exeter Chiefs. Initially trying to raise enough money to
improve the stadium with no borrowing. There was 3 years evolvement. The stadium
issues were resolved leading to Sandy Park (which was also initially envisaged
as a no borrowing project).
The Drivers Jonas document was impressive but some issues were not addressed.
Not found in the report were options for SJP. This task has now fallen to
Steve Williams. There will be a new working group using the Club, The Trust
and skilled people. The outcome may well be very different to current thoughts.
We need to meet, consider ideas, get guidance, understand the problems. The
end result of this will give us something solid to consider but this will
not happen immediately.
“The Old Grandstand?”
Steve Williams - We have a superb Operations director in
Frances Farley. This has enabled us to extend the life of the Old Grandstand
so far. It could be good for another 2, 5, 10 years. The relationship with
Devon HSE is obviously a limiting factor.
“What about moving the pitch? As there are no SJP games pre-season?”
Julian Tagg - As regard having no games. This is for pitch
improvement. We have always been pro-active in terms of getting those games
on somewhere but unfortunately there was still a furore when this was announced.
We have an exceptionally good groundsman who seeks to improve rather than
maintain the pitch. There was some remedial work done but with less time last
year because of the playoffs. For now to the end of the season it’s
make do and mend. 150 tons of sand have been laid down. Other clubs do it
annually. We hadn’t in 10 years.
Paul Morrish - There will be a 2 day break in pitch work
when the club will hold a Gala on the pitch. Profits to go towards the pitch.
There will be a dinner for 400 people the Friday before the last bank holiday.
It will be black tie or away shirt. There will also be a bar in a marquee.
Also - events & activities. Then, on the 2nd day, there is a beer festival
courtesy of St Austell brewery. Clive, the groundsman, has schedule seeding
to allow for it. Paul Tisdale sees a good pitch as an absolute priority.
“Pre-season plans?”
Julian Tagg - Last years Cornish tour was effective apart,
obviously and sadly, from the Bodmin game. A similar tour planned for this
year. The surface’s have to be right.
It was profitable last year. Brent Hotels (owners of the ‘Devon Motel’
amongst others) offered good rates which suited the playing and commercial
side. It’s close for supporters. Whilst in Cornwall we are also looking
for sponsors. We now have a whole new set of audiences in North Devon &
Cornwall.
“Wembley money? The Torquay situation pre-season? Income /
Receipts information?”
Julian Tagg - The club get £85,000 via the Conference.
Wembley are stalling on the figures from the final - believe it or not. The
Conference are cagey on announcing figure because all other clubs also get
a share.
We got nothing for Paul Buckle - we still have his registration as a player
but could not prevent him taking a management role as this would be a restriction
of trade.
Paul Morrish - Match day takings are now on the club website.
If they have not been in the programme then this is an oversight which will
be rectified. ECFC made £75,000 from our own inititiatives from Wembley.
Morecambe made £5,000. We’re looking at all areas. It’s
also where does the money ‘work hardest’. For instance, turning
Football In The Community into a charity allows access to grant money. We
are doing good deals with business via Flybe. We are a smarter business so
it’s not going to the same people all the time.
Steve Williams - The overall effect of a £200k profit
enables us to report a loss of £100k. The Trust money means we break
even.
Generally - predictable income is on one level. Our predictable outgoings
are at a higher level. The target now is to break even at least.
The CVA was paid. Other debt (including utilities etc.) was £1 million.
£700k of this has been dealt with leaving £300k. Because we have
been doing well at dealing with this there may have been mixed messages. A
huge job of work has been done with still more to do. Paul Tisdale understands
the complications & restrictions. He gets ‘value for money’.
Report - Mike Cooper
24 March 2008
Latest Winner of Director's Box Places
Trust member, Graham Davies, is the latest winner of 2 places in the Director's
Box, and took advantage of them at the Conference match against Kidderminster
on Saturday 22nd March.
Graham was fifth on the list of ten potential winners and after the first
four either were unable to go or were not contactable the prize passed to
Graham.
Also on the list for this prize were: Jamie MacIntyre, Gordon Walker, Kevin
Rogers, Ronald White, Ian Gould, Margaret Evans, John Chown, Susan Godwin
and R.C. Ford.
The geographical spread this time was: 4 from Exeter, 4 from other EX post
codes (Exmouth, Exminster, Sidford and Budleigh Salterton), plus one each
from Warminster and Liverpool.
Don't forget if your details are not correct on the database you may miss
out so make sure they are accurate now by checking at www.ecfcst.org.uk/members
- you will have to register first but it may well be worth the trouble!
The Trust Board of Society and the Club Board have agreed to make two
Director's Box places available at each home game.
The two places will be for Trust members and are allocated by way of
a random draw from the membership database.
21 March 2008
Bang the Drum for Exeter City
Exeter City are already renowned for having some of the most vociferous supporters
in the Blue Square Premiership, but an exciting new project looks set to crank
up decibel levels at St James’s Park to even greater heights.
The Football Club and Supporters' Trust has teamed up with Devon’s
community music organisation, Wren Music, to create a whole new way for young
people to support the team on match days.
Drumming Up Support will see youngsters, aged from 10 to 18, form a squad
to develop a drumming group to play during matches.
And the club’s Director of Football, Steve Perryman MBE, is convinced
it can only help the Grecians achieve success on the pitch.
“Whilst managing in Japan, I witnessed the positive effect a band -
and especially the drumming section - could have in terms of stirring up people’s
passion and enthusiasm in support of the team,” said Steve.
“They helped create such a club spirit that it drove us towards our
first-ever championship.
“From a playing perspective, noise at games can be absolutely vital
in inspiring a performance, while silence can have quite the opposite effect.
“Drumming Up Support is sure to mean more music and more noise and
I’m all for it.”
Over the next few months, Wren Music’s team of professional musicians
will be working with the young drummers, sharing their skills and teaching
them everything they need to know to create pulsating rhythms and exciting
bursts of sound. Participation is free thanks to funding from the National
Lottery Grants for the Arts and Exeter Arts Council.
The project will be launched at the match between Exeter City and Halifax
Town on Saturday, March 29th, with a drumming demonstration from Wren Musicians
just before kick-off.
All who would like to join the drummers can then come along to open workshop
sessions which will be held on Thursdays 10th, 17th and 24th of April,
from 7pm to 9pm, in the Family Room of the Old Grandstand
at St James’s Park. Entry is by the gate on Well Street alongside
the railway bridge.
No musical experience is needed and there will be no music reading involved.
All that’s required is enthusiasm and support for the club. Drums of
all sizes will be provided though people are welcome to bring their own if
it can be carried or worn.
Tony Badcock of Exeter City Supporters’ Trust, the club’s majority
shareholder, enthused: “Ever since the Trust assumed control we’ve
been committed to furthering the club’s links with the community and
encouraging people who might not fit the stereotypical notion of a football
fan to come along to the Park, while all the time paying heed to our social
responsibilities.
“Exeter City is so much more than a football club these days. We were
thrilled to win a regional national business award for corporate social responsibility
recently and, with Drumming Up Support, we’re every bit as thrilled
to be offering our younger supporters such a wonderful opportunity to broaden
their cultural horizons while at the same time supporting the club.”
Further information on joining the drummers can be found at www.wrenmusic.co.uk
or by contacting info@wrenmusic.co.uk
or calling Wren on 01837 53754.
20 March 2008
Drivers Jonas Vote - Final Result
Exeter City Supporters' Trust Press Release RE: Drivers Jonas Voting
Conclusion
In recent weeks a poll of Exeter City Supporters' Trust members has been undertaken
by the Board of Society. This poll was conducted with the view to seek a mandate
on the best way forward for both Exeter City and the Supporters' Trust, with
respect to a possible relocation of the Football Club away from St James Park.
Following weeks of voting and the successful compilation of all online and
paper based votes, the Board of Society are pleased to announce that it has
finally received a mandate from an overwhelming majority of Trust members,
who have chosen to endorse the Drivers Jonas working groups recommendation
to "explore the option of redeveloping our spiritual home at
St James Park".
At the close of voting 752 votes were cast both via a postal ballot and through
online voting with 682 members choosing to endorse the Drivers Jonas working
group recommendation. This overwhelming mandate from the Supporters' Trust
membership clearly shows the sense of feeling around this issue.
Following the completion of this vote, representatives of Exeter City FC,
the Supporters' Trust and relevant stake holders will now meet to identify
the best means of bringing about this mandated recommendation of the Drivers
Jonas working group.
The democratic manner, in which this mandate has been sought, sets a marker
to all Football Clubs around the country, that supporters should play an active
role in deciding the future of the clubs they support. The role that Supporters'
Trust members have now played in shaping the future of Exeter City FC will
go down in history as a triumph of democracy in the management of football
clubs.
These are exciting times for Exeter City Football Club and its majority shareholder.
The Board of Society would like to thank every Trust member who has participated
in this vote.
Both Exeter City FC and the Supporters' Trust are pleased to have acquired
this mandate to progress this issue and look forward to developing the future
of Exeter City FC in partnership together with all relevant stake holders.
Signed
Board of Society
Exeter City Supporters' Trust
19 March 2008
2008/09 New Home Kit - Result of Poll
In recent weeks the Exeter City Supporters' Trust has conducted a poll of
Trust members to allow them to choose the final design for Exeter City’s
home shirt for the 2008-2009 season.
Initially designs were generated jointly by officials of the Exeter City Management
team, official kit suppliers SHO and club sponsors Flybe. Following successful
discussions, 5 designs were chosen to go to a vote of the Supporters' Trust
membership.
Following the final compilation of online and paper based votes, the Supporters’
Trust is pleased to announce that Exeter City players will be wearing shirt
design “I” at St James Park in our 2008-2009 league campaign (seen
below).
19 March 2008
Red or Dead Scheme - The Story So Far
As the person now charged with the responsibility for Red or Dead I was going
to be doing a summary press release in a few weeks to show how the money has
been spent so far but now's as good a time as any I guess given a query on
the Gnet mailing list earlier today.
Of the £137,440.53 handed over to the fund £82,101.29 has so
far been spent with other applications in the pipeline for consideration.
So far (in reverse order, i.e. latest first and in line with pledger's preferences)
money has been spent on:
The Early Learning Centre
Old Grandstand Stairs
Tractor
New Turnstiles
Carpet SJC
Finishing Mower
Shred and Vac
Enhanced Playing Budget
Reserve Team Set-up
Flat Screen TV
Electricity Supply Storerooms
Borehole at the Cat and Fiddle.
It won't surprise you to know that the largest amount paid over by someway
was that for the playing budget for 2005/6 and 2006/7.
Of course had we not used the Red or Dead money to pay for all of the above
the Club's financial position would have been somewhat worse so Red or Dead
has still achieved its purpose albeit in a different way to that originally
envisaged.
Neil LeMilliere
16 March 2008
Latest on Grecian Trust Sheme
Thought it time we had a further update on the Grecians Trust Scheme (GTS),
which has been running for a couple months now. The scheme is progressing
slowly, but progressing, which is the main thing with this type of scheme.
We could really do with your help and donations, whilst making some cash
for you. So if you have something old or new you don’t want anymore,
we would love to hear from you. Call Barry on 01392 214071.
Recently we took receipt of some very exciting pieces, which are due to go
to a specialist sale. This will be a Toy Sale up North through a company called
VECTIS, who deal in Toys and Trains. Further details of this in a later Grecian
article when confirmed sale dates are given.
Currently selling on Ebid is a whole range of goods for you to bid on. Link
is http://uk.nine.ebid.net/perl/normal.cgi?user=GreciansTrust&mo=their-all-about
but if you prefer not to have to type all this in to your browser, just simply
email me at barrysansom2@sky.com
and I will send you the link. If you use the link we can earn buddy points
if you register, for every person that registers with EBID the Grecians Trust
earns what are called BUDDY points. Once we have earned enough points we can
bid on EBID auction goods, such as mugs, tax disc holders, pens, Dyson cleaners,
Senseo Coffee Maker, Garden Kits and DVD players to name a few. When we purchase
an Ebid item through Buddy points, it will go into a draw and all the Trust
bidders will get automatic entry to win the item. We have 6 Buddies so far,
but need more. If you simply want to visit Ebid and our Scheme, log on to
Ebid and search for use GreciansTrust (This is all one word with the 1st letter
T being a capital).
More thanks to the following for their donations: JAKE DILLON for more items
and the supply of Devon Red Flags for your car window, DAVID HAMILTON for
some very exciting items which will feature in a future Grecian article of
it’s own, NORMAN SHIEL for parting with some quality programmes from
the 60’, RON PARTRIDGE for a Microwave oven and Fridge Freezer, I have
already managed to sell the Fridge Freezer to a chap who sends Freezers back
to his home country of Ghana, which I find fascinating and just goes to show
that your donations whilst making your Trust some money, also reaches far
off countries, doing some good for others not as well off as us.
ADRIAN GIBB – Now this is another interesting story. This guy had an
unfortunate bereavement when his Father-in-Law sadly passed away. Adrian travels
all the way to Essex to help clear deceased’s property. He gives me
a call to ask if some of the contents would be of use to the GTS. Of course
the obvious answer was ‘YES PLEASE!!!’ Adrian loads up the Van
and travels back to Exeter to meet with me. The Van was full of goodies, some
now at Queens Road Auctions, in local paper, on Internet auction sites, some
already sold privately, some going to Boot Sale. So thank you Adrian for your
sterling efforts and of course to your late Father-in-Law. I will try and
get a final figure before next Grecian article, or at least a running figure.
A lot of donated items are still in the process of being sold either on Internet
or local auctions, with much of it going to Boot Sale. Barry and Donna Sansom
will be selling at a Boot Sale in the near future. Details to follow, so please
see if you can spare a bit of time to pop along, say hello and perhaps buy
something (no obligation). Perhaps you might want to get involved on the day,
if so, just let me know. Call me on 01392 214071.
Please help this scheme become very profitable by donating as much as you
can. We do already have a lot of books and programmes, so would not hope to
have many more at this stage, but they would not be refused. Contact Barry
Sansom where possible on 01392 214071 if you have something to donate, for
he would be happy to arrange collection.
I am now running a local ‘Clearance Scheme’ linked under the
Grecian Trust Scheme. So if you have things that need to go to the tip that
will fit in my Picasso Such as Fridge Freezers, chests of drawers, wardrobe
etc.) give me a call. Rates per full load would be £15, £10 for
part loads. All profit to the Trust.
Also linked to the Scheme is a scrap metal collection. If you have metal
you want to get shot of, give me a shout. Old wiring, copper boilers, lead,
Iron, Steel and so on, all collected free of charge. Once we have enough,
the scrap will be taken to a dealer in exchange for cash. All profit will
go to the Trust.
Barry Sansom
14 March 2008
Latest Fixtures Poster Available
The Club has produced a smart new Fixtures Poster, advertising the last 6
home matches of the season. The aim is to help spread the word and encourage
fans to come and support the team in the bid for the play-offs.
The posters will be handed out at the next three home matches, but you can
also download a copy by clicking on the following link:
Fixtures
Poster (PDF file, 2.28 Mb)
13 March 2008
Latest Winner of Director's Box Places
Trust member, Michael Chalmers, is the latest winner of 2 places in the Director's
Box, and will take advantage of them at the Conference match against Droylsden
on Saturday 15th March.
Michael was the first name on the list of ten potential winners.
Also on the list for this prize were: Adam Liddicoat, Gillian Clifton, Quentin
Hawkes, A. J. Hudson, Mark Richards, Corinne Cunningham, Andrew Montgomery,
Martyn Gray, and Jon MacIver.
The geographical spread this time was: 6 from Exeter; 3 from other EX post
codes (Exmouth, Silverton and Axminster), plus one from Tiverton so unusually
none from outside sunny Devon!
Don't forget if your details are not correct on the database you may miss
out so make sure they are accurate now by checking at www.ecfcst.org.uk/members
- you will have to register first but it may well be worth the trouble!
The Trust Board of Society and the Club Board have agreed to make two
Director's Box places available at each home game.
The two places will be for Trust members and are allocated by way of
a random draw from the membership database.
6 March 2008
Drivers Jonas Voting Update - Voting Ends
Over the last few weeks members of the Supporters' Trust have been voting
on whether they agree with the recommendation of the Drivers Jonas working
group "to explore the option of redeveloping our spiritual home at St
James Park". Following a busy voting period all voting has now closed
to Trust members, and representatives of the Trust Board of Society are now
engaged with collating these votes.
It is the desire of the Supporters' Trust to issue an official press release
upon completion of all counting. Please stay tuned to both the official Club
and Trust websites, as well as local media for more details.
On behalf of the Board of Society I would like to thank everybody who has
participated in this voting process. Such a vote on the future of our club
is a landmark in the brief history of Supporters' Trust's throughout football
and truely shows the value of Supporters involvement in their football clubs.
Martin Lawrence
ECFC Supporters' Trust
2 March 2008
Fans Forum - Thursday 6th March
There is a fans' forum taking place in the Flybe Suite on
Thursday 6th March. The evening is to be hosted by Giles
Ashman - the Flybe Master of Ceremonies.
The programme remains the same as was originally arranged for September -
introducing the summer signings and loads more. If you are coming straight
from work (or indeed just like your grub) our top rated hot pork rolls will
be available throughout the evening.
For your advance notice the rough schedule for the evening is:
7pm - Andy Taylor and Paul Tisdale introduce Matt Taylor,
Andy Marriott, Neil Saunders and Steve Basham.
8pm - Alan Banks and the City legends
9pm - In an open forum. Members of the football club board
take your questions on ground location, V10, growth, performance to plan and
any other matter you care to raise.
We hope to see you and all the City regulars in the Flybe Suite on 6th March.
