Following requests from several of our members, the Trust has decided to issue the following statement regarding the forthcoming End of Season Gala Dinner & Awards Night.
As you probably know, The Trust holds regular meetings with the club, both formally & informally, and we were first informed about a possible change of format to the awards night towards the end of October, although we were requested to keep the matter confidential, until arrangements were finalised.
Even at the this early stage, the Trust pointed out that it had several reservations regarding the changes proposed by the club.
On 22nd Jan 2018, we held a more formal meeting with the Directors of the Football Club, during which the End of Season Awards night was discussed. Again, all five members of the Trust Board in attendance voiced their concerns that the proposed format would exclude both junior supporters and also the less affluent fans from attending. In effect, we were concerned that it was taking the event away from the supporters, and towards a more corporate environment.
Yesterday, the club announced details of the End of Season Gala Dinner & Awards Night to be held at the Town Hall, and this has led to a large number of our members getting in touch with us, echoing the concerns that we had . Furthermore, It appears that attendees at last week’s business club were told of the Gala Dinner almost a week ahead of the Official Launch.
We were promised by the club at the October meeting that the change of format will be a “one off” for this season only, and that the club will hold a separate event for junior supporters at a forthcoming home game where they can meet the players and have autographs signed etc., although details have yet to be finalised.
We would like to thank the club for involving us in their planning, but would comment that we are disappointed that our concerns about moving the End of Season Awards to a formal Gala Dinner have not been listened to.
As we have had so many requests and comments regarding this announcement , we will be holding a Trust Desk in the Dale Bar before tonight’s match. We welcome comments from members and will of course pass these on to the club should you wish. If you would like to do so, please email info@daletrust.co.uk
Best wishes
Dave Gartside
Chair Rochdale Supporters Trust