Quakers' chairman calls for fans' help

09 March 2011 08:00
THE chairman of Darlington FC last night issued a plea for fans to buy 2,000 adult season tickets and ensure the club's survival.[LNB] Raj Singh said he would guarantee the Quakers' safety if sufficient pledges to take up 2011-12 season tickets were received by the end of the month.[LNB] If not, he said, he will consider his own future with the Blue Square Bet Premier club.[LNB] The Help Save Your Club appeal will be launched at Darlington's FA Trophy semifinal game against Gateshead on Saturday.[LNB] It follows reports last month that the holding company owning The Northern Echo Arena and surrounding land is in receivership over an outstanding £1.7m debt incurred before Mr Singh's 2009 takeover.[LNB] We need to get an idea of what our cash flows will be next year and that is the reason for the appeal, he said.[LNB] If we don't get 2,000, I will have to consider my future as to whether I carry on or not.[LNB] The chairman conceded the issues over holding company will not be quickly resolved, adding: I am not going to put money in, not knowing whether there is any longterm future.[LNB] Fans completing a season ticket application form by the end of the month will not have to pay until June.[LNB] Mr Singh estimated that 2,000 adult season ticket sales will inject £500,000 into the club. There are currently about 1,200 season ticket holders.[LNB] Season tickets for 2011-12, which cost the equivalent of less than £12 a game, go on sale on Saturday.[LNB] With the Quakers unbeaten in their last 11 home games, Mr Singh said now is the time more than ever to show your loyalty.[LNB] Should the target be met, Mr Singh pledged to enter talks with manager Mark Cooper over a new contract.[LNB] In a statement to be included in the application packs, Mr Singh said: I'm prepared to continue to keep football in Darlington, if you are prepared to support me.[LNB] If I get the support of 2,000 adults I guarantee there will be a football club next season.[LNB] If we can't get the support we're looking for, it would be heart-breaking for everyone as, in my opinion, there'd be no future for Darlington FC.[LNB]

Source: Northern_Echo