Quakers' chairman calls for fans' help

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. 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. If not, he said, he will consider his own future with the Blue Square Bet Premier club. The Help Save Your Club appeal will be launched at Darlington's FA Trophy semifinal game against Gateshead on Saturday. 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. 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. If we don't get 2,000, I will have to consider my future as to whether I carry on or not. 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. Fans completing a season ticket application form by the end of the month will not have to pay until June. 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. Season tickets for 2011-12, which cost the equivalent of less than £12 a game, go on sale on Saturday. With the Quakers unbeaten in their last 11 home games, Mr Singh said now is the time more than ever to show your loyalty. Should the target be met, Mr Singh pledged to enter talks with manager Mark Cooper over a new contract. 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. If I get the support of 2,000 adults I guarantee there will be a football club next season. 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.

Source: Northern_Echo