SWINDON TOWN: Trust STFC chief hails Watkins impact

Nick Watkins Nick Watkins

TRUST STFC chairman John Ward has branded Nick Watkins’ departure from Swindon Town as a “great loss”, but he stressed that the chief executive’s decision to move on seems the most natural course of events under the club’s new ownership.

The Robins yesterday confirmed that Watkins had left his post at the County Ground after five years of service, during which time he was instrumental in associating the club with major headline brands such as Adidas, Samsung, FourFourTwo and EA Sports and building a tremendous rapport with the fans.

However, with a new board of directors now in place, Watkins - the last remaining representative of Andrew Fitton’s 2008 takeover consortium - was ready to step down.

In a statement on the club’s official website, he said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed each single minute of my five years with the club and I shall remember my time here with great affection. I have been privileged to work with a great team of people, and I am proud that I can hand to the new owners, a club that is in peak condition.

“To the STFC staff, sponsors, suppliers, and the fans, I would like to express my genuine and very sincere gratitude for your friendship and support. COYR.”

Ward enjoyed a strong relationship with Town through Watkins over the past five years, and the Trust chairman wanted to put on record his appreciation for the outgoing CEO.

“He has been an amazing servant of the club. He’s really been the person putting into practice the aims of the previous consortium, which were to demonstrate a club like Swindon - against received wisdom - can be run as a proper business breaking even,” Ward said.

“They were on the road to achieving that and one of the reasons they were doing so well was because of Nick. He was such a wonderful person to have implementing their ideas in the day-to-day running of the football club.

“He’s a very great loss but on the other hand but, on other hand, when you have completely new owners who want to run the club in a different way with board members being very much more hands-on it makes sense that there wasn’t a job for him at the level he was doing it. We thank him for everything he’s done and I am very pleased that he is remaining as a consultant, which I’m sure will be really helpful to the new owners in the transition to the new way of operating.”

Meanwhile, STFC Supporters Club spokesman Nigel Bennett was equally grateful for Watkins’ input during the past half-decade.

“The Supporters Club have enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Nick Watkins during his tenure at the football club,” he said. “He always had fans’ hearts in his interests and would always be happy to meet and solve any issues that were raised by fans.”

Comments(95)

The Jockster says...
6:27am Thu 7 Mar 13

I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else.
Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?

LydiardRED67 says...
7:16am Thu 7 Mar 13

More importantly, does the adver treat his view as being the views of the fans.

I hope not.

umpcah says...
7:19am Thu 7 Mar 13

LydiardRED67 wrote:
More importantly, does the adver treat his view as being the views of the fans.

I hope not.
Good questions above which need good answers.

Boston Red says...
7:34am Thu 7 Mar 13

Many football clubs have been run desperately poorly for many years. Sometimes clubs need to have a critical friend to hold them to account. People have forgotten quite how bad things were before Black, Fitton et al took over.

Although we all hope the new owners will take the club forward, it's not exactly guaranteed.

Although I'm not a member of the Trust I find it reassuring that there are people who have the long term interests of the club at heart who want to make sure the club is being run well, for the benefit of all Swindon fans.

If people aren't sure about the Trust, get in touch with them and get involved.

avo says...
7:52am Thu 7 Mar 13

"If people aren't sure about the Trust, get in touch with them and get involved.”
.
Could not have put it better myself.

Since 1950 says...
7:57am Thu 7 Mar 13

I met Nick Watkins on a few occaisions at AGM's and in the hospitality lounges. A top chap and a true gentleman. Our loss no doubt of that.

Now Mr Ward, as TRUST STFC Chairman, why are you not asking questions about what in heavens name is going on with this new/ongoing (delete as applicable anyone who truly knows) embargo?

Also after all the questions raised yesterday, why is there no clarification from either the club or Sam Morshead on the subject?

Ardiles says...
7:58am Thu 7 Mar 13

What exactly are 'the views of the fans'? There are many thousands of fans, for a start - tens of thousands if you include casual/occasional supporters - and I very much doubt for one second that John Ward claims to represent every one of them.

What John Ward has done - unlike those taking pot shots from the side on here - is give up some of his time to head up a properly constituted, independent fans' body that seeks to scrutinise the club and hold those in charge to account. He is only mandated to do that on behalf of those fans who have signed up to the Trust - which I am sure everyone understands.

Really not sure what the early posters' beef is, to be honest. We should be glad that there are fans' representatives out there like John and like Nigel Bennett. The club would be a good deal poorer without them.

Med Red says...
8:16am Thu 7 Mar 13

No news regards the embargo, despite all the comments on this forum yesterday?? Most fans would like clarification on this matter and yet Mr Morsehead has chosen to ignore the issue, too busy cozying up to the new owners??

the don69 says...
8:41am Thu 7 Mar 13

Med Red wrote:
No news regards the embargo, despite all the comments on this forum yesterday?? Most fans would like clarification on this matter and yet Mr Morsehead has chosen to ignore the issue, too busy cozying up to the new owners??
Jed said,it will be resolved this week,FL still going through the paper work,they don't know what the words,speedy,hurry or even fast means!LOL!!

glasred says...
8:44am Thu 7 Mar 13

What is the adver playing at?..Making a brief statement about a crucial embargo yesterday,and yet not a single word today. either the club has asked the adver not to enlarge on this as it is nearly resolved,or just very poor reporting. Come on SM step up your game.

old town robin says...
8:47am Thu 7 Mar 13

No means to comment on the Oakley pro-deal thread. so that's the reason I'm comment on this one

Hope him and Louis ger contracts. Don't know enough about the other lads, but good luck to all of them.

If Aaron is going to step up, as he surely will, question is will someone have to make room for him. If Kev only want 4 to cover the centre back positions then an existing squd player would have to make room for him. At the moment not counting Macca, we have Ward, Flint, Devera and Archibald,

IMO, I think we could accomodate 5 when you consider the injuries Devera and Archibald have left us with no cover at the back other than Oakley, also Ward is going on 34, probably one more season in him at best and as Oakley is hardly going to be first name on the team sheet he still needs time to make that move up to senior level and get more games

If one of our established CB's moved on, it might depend on which division we might be playing in next season. Not going to speculate who's at risk, but two of them are out of contract in the summer, so I would think they would be the ones that need to impress between now and end of season if they want to remain here.

Last step says...
8:53am Thu 7 Mar 13

Ardiles wrote:
What exactly are 'the views of the fans'? There are many thousands of fans, for a start - tens of thousands if you include casual/occasional supporters - and I very much doubt for one second that John Ward claims to represent every one of them.

What John Ward has done - unlike those taking pot shots from the side on here - is give up some of his time to head up a properly constituted, independent fans' body that seeks to scrutinise the club and hold those in charge to account. He is only mandated to do that on behalf of those fans who have signed up to the Trust - which I am sure everyone understands.

Really not sure what the early posters' beef is, to be honest. We should be glad that there are fans' representatives out there like John and like Nigel Bennett. The club would be a good deal poorer without them.
An excellent post.

As is the one suggesting people contact the Trust themselves to get involved.

stfcphil says...
9:09am Thu 7 Mar 13

Med Red wrote:
No news regards the embargo, despite all the comments on this forum yesterday?? Most fans would like clarification on this matter and yet Mr Morsehead has chosen to ignore the issue, too busy cozying up to the new owners??
There's been plenty of discussion and clarification. You just have to look in the right places ..........

Med Red says...
9:12am Thu 7 Mar 13

the don69 wrote:
Med Red wrote: No news regards the embargo, despite all the comments on this forum yesterday?? Most fans would like clarification on this matter and yet Mr Morsehead has chosen to ignore the issue, too busy cozying up to the new owners??
Jed said,it will be resolved this week,FL still going through the paper work,they don't know what the words,speedy,hurry or even fast means!LOL!!
Good, when/where did he say that? I hope it's true. Midfield concerns me, apart from Ferry, no creativity. Hopefully KM has someone lined up for when the embargo is lifted.

avo says...
9:17am Thu 7 Mar 13

Med Red wrote:
No news regards the embargo, despite all the comments on this forum yesterday?? Most fans would like clarification on this matter and yet Mr Morsehead has chosen to ignore the issue, too busy cozying up to the new owners??
Patience is a virtue, so the saying goes. Maybe there'll be something later.

Stilloyal says...
9:40am Thu 7 Mar 13

The Jockster wrote:
I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
The trust was formed in the dark days of Donergan & Blatchley when the club REALLY didn't have a dime.
What the trust have done , especially in those early days was to pay for loan players and the training ground at Liddington which the club could not afford at that time.
The original aim was to buy the club to keep it from the clutches of the aformentioned pair who's intent was to bankrupt the club and build housing and commercial premises on the site. However not enough of the fan base were intrested in forking out a tenner to save the club.
They , D & B, almost succeeded due to their wanton and deliberate waste of money eg helicopter rides from London to the C.G instead of driving or taking cheaper forms of transport..
The Trust have quietly done a decent job , however it could do with more members , it's cheap to join and they do worthwhile work behind the scenes as do the official supporters club.

Calcio Robin says...
9:59am Thu 7 Mar 13

Boring news, same as yesterday, its more about behind the scenes, "well what they want to tell us", and not the main product the football team, at least the news was quite exciting, be it bad , good or indifferent, when the departed Italian was with us. What's with this embargo that keeps being mentioned, is it an excuse for not bringing in a loan player or two which I think are much needed.?????

Since 1950 says...
10:05am Thu 7 Mar 13

stfcphil wrote:
Med Red wrote: No news regards the embargo, despite all the comments on this forum yesterday?? Most fans would like clarification on this matter and yet Mr Morsehead has chosen to ignore the issue, too busy cozying up to the new owners??
There's been plenty of discussion and clarification. You just have to look in the right places ..........
The Adver obviously not being one of them!

MITTED says...
10:05am Thu 7 Mar 13

Stilloyal wrote:
The Jockster wrote:
I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
The trust was formed in the dark days of Donergan & Blatchley when the club REALLY didn't have a dime.
What the trust have done , especially in those early days was to pay for loan players and the training ground at Liddington which the club could not afford at that time.
The original aim was to buy the club to keep it from the clutches of the aformentioned pair who's intent was to bankrupt the club and build housing and commercial premises on the site. However not enough of the fan base were intrested in forking out a tenner to save the club.
They , D & B, almost succeeded due to their wanton and deliberate waste of money eg helicopter rides from London to the C.G instead of driving or taking cheaper forms of transport..
The Trust have quietly done a decent job , however it could do with more members , it's cheap to join and they do worthwhile work behind the scenes as do the official supporters club.
Who needs enemies when we have fellow supporters like Jockster? Rather than slag the Trust off and its chairman in particular, why don't you visit the Trust website and perhaps attend a meeting or two? I promise that you will be enlightened. And just for the record, the Trust was instrumental in helping to save the club, not just from D&B, but later from the Newbury mafia as well. Also, in conjuction with the Supporters Club, it has helped raise £000s for the Red Army Fund.
COYR

Wessex Warrior says...
10:05am Thu 7 Mar 13

Quote: “He’s a very great loss but on the other hand but, on other hand, when you have completely new owners....."


Does this mean it's back to the original hand that it started on? It could be. But on the other hand....

Wessex Warrior says...
10:11am Thu 7 Mar 13

I hope that the new guy taking over Watkins job is up to the task. Whether they were all down to him I'm not sure, but the list of sponsors is impressive for a League One club. Will he will have similar clout with the corporate world and not just look to put on XTC concerts in the penalty area (Stratton Bank end)?

The Jockster says...
10:12am Thu 7 Mar 13

Stilloyal wrote:
The Jockster wrote:
I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
The trust was formed in the dark days of Donergan & Blatchley when the club REALLY didn't have a dime.
What the trust have done , especially in those early days was to pay for loan players and the training ground at Liddington which the club could not afford at that time.
The original aim was to buy the club to keep it from the clutches of the aformentioned pair who's intent was to bankrupt the club and build housing and commercial premises on the site. However not enough of the fan base were intrested in forking out a tenner to save the club.
They , D & B, almost succeeded due to their wanton and deliberate waste of money eg helicopter rides from London to the C.G instead of driving or taking cheaper forms of transport..
The Trust have quietly done a decent job , however it could do with more members , it's cheap to join and they do worthwhile work behind the scenes as do the official supporters club.
Loyal thanks for the clarification I'm now a lot wiser and to quote Ardiles I don't have a beef - what I do now have thanks to Loyal are some answers to the questions I posed.

Stilloyal says...
10:23am Thu 7 Mar 13

The Jockster wrote:
Stilloyal wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
The trust was formed in the dark days of Donergan & Blatchley when the club REALLY didn't have a dime. What the trust have done , especially in those early days was to pay for loan players and the training ground at Liddington which the club could not afford at that time. The original aim was to buy the club to keep it from the clutches of the aformentioned pair who's intent was to bankrupt the club and build housing and commercial premises on the site. However not enough of the fan base were intrested in forking out a tenner to save the club. They , D & B, almost succeeded due to their wanton and deliberate waste of money eg helicopter rides from London to the C.G instead of driving or taking cheaper forms of transport.. The Trust have quietly done a decent job , however it could do with more members , it's cheap to join and they do worthwhile work behind the scenes as do the official supporters club.
Loyal thanks for the clarification I'm now a lot wiser and to quote Ardiles I don't have a beef - what I do now have thanks to Loyal are some answers to the questions I posed.
Y.W.

Ardiles, Beef, Fray Bentos ?

ghanimah says...
10:25am Thu 7 Mar 13

The Jockster wrote:
I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else.
Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
Perhaps you should endeavor to find out before criticising. Your lack of knowledge is your fault and no-one else's.

dreamofacleansheet2 says...
10:47am Thu 7 Mar 13

Anyway I posted late last night. Watkins is undoubtedly a fine man and a gentleman. But a huge loss?

I'm afraid I don't think the club is marketed well at all and I definitely think the food and drink and service inside the ground leaves a lot to be desired and could be improved dramatically.

These fell under NW remit and I hope the new board can bring improvements to the benefit of the club as a whole.

I wish him well for the future.

On the embargo I'm liking the fact that KM isn't in a rush anyway. Better for him to see the players in training and games and make his own mind up without fans telling him who to get in on loan!!

mallorca says...
10:53am Thu 7 Mar 13

Embargo?????? Turner has been going on about the 20k still owed ref appearances for Collins for a few weeks
Surely the new owners wer made aware of this????? at the end of the day it´s an Embargo unlesss the money is paid.Who ever drew up this deal for collins wants his **** kicked.
Hence i fear not a peep about covering players we need not just for promotion but to be able to have a few on the Bench
Turner is a pain allways was yet his club is owed the moneyJED pay up last thing we need is another EMbargo

Oxon-Red says...
10:58am Thu 7 Mar 13

ghanimah wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
Perhaps you should endeavor to find out before criticising. Your lack of knowledge is your fault and no-one else's.
I think Jockster had a valid point and thanks to the replies he has received a number of us have learned more about the trust.

Some rely on this site for information and many may not have known about the trust being set up due to living away from Swindon.

COYMR

smirg kcab says...
10:59am Thu 7 Mar 13

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
Anyway I posted late last night. Watkins is undoubtedly a fine man and a gentleman. But a huge loss? I'm afraid I don't think the club is marketed well at all and I definitely think the food and drink and service inside the ground leaves a lot to be desired and could be improved dramatically. These fell under NW remit and I hope the new board can bring improvements to the benefit of the club as a whole. I wish him well for the future. On the embargo I'm liking the fact that KM isn't in a rush anyway. Better for him to see the players in training and games and make his own mind up without fans telling him who to get in on loan!!
Another statue being built as we speak.
We are paolos Terracotta Army
Onwards and upwards

Med Red says...
11:03am Thu 7 Mar 13

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
Anyway I posted late last night. Watkins is undoubtedly a fine man and a gentleman. But a huge loss? I'm afraid I don't think the club is marketed well at all and I definitely think the food and drink and service inside the ground leaves a lot to be desired and could be improved dramatically. These fell under NW remit and I hope the new board can bring improvements to the benefit of the club as a whole. I wish him well for the future. On the embargo I'm liking the fact that KM isn't in a rush anyway. Better for him to see the players in training and games and make his own mind up without fans telling him who to get in on loan!!
I seem to remember you saying just a couple of weeks back how important it was that we strengthen a "very thin squad"... my words, not yours. What's changed your mind?

ghanimah says...
11:07am Thu 7 Mar 13

Oxon-Red wrote:
ghanimah wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
Perhaps you should endeavor to find out before criticising. Your lack of knowledge is your fault and no-one else's.
I think Jockster had a valid point and thanks to the replies he has received a number of us have learned more about the trust.

Some rely on this site for information and many may not have known about the trust being set up due to living away from Swindon.

COYMR
He may have a valid question if he was unaware of what the Trust has achieved over the years, but he used his own lack of knowledge to essentially accuse John Ward of being self-important.

I would suggest that probably isn't the best way of going about things.

The Jockster says...
11:08am Thu 7 Mar 13

ghanimah wrote:
The Jockster wrote:
I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else.
Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
Perhaps you should endeavor to find out before criticising. Your lack of knowledge is your fault and no-one else's.
I wasn't criticising and said that I didn't was to do the guy any disservice which you would have seen if you read my post properly! I was merely asking pertinent questions to which I have now pertinent answers, unlike your unhelpful response!

Since 1950 says...
11:38am Thu 7 Mar 13

The Jockster wrote:
ghanimah wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
Perhaps you should endeavor to find out before criticising. Your lack of knowledge is your fault and no-one else's.
I wasn't criticising and said that I didn't was to do the guy any disservice which you would have seen if you read my post properly! I was merely asking pertinent questions to which I have now pertinent answers, unlike your unhelpful response!
Pointless Jockster.

If more people were like Stilloyal and gave sensible answers to pertinent questions instead of scarcastic replies from people who themselves know the square route of bu**er all then we may all be a little more informed!

mallorca says...
11:46am Thu 7 Mar 13

Awe under an EMBARGO?????????
just read what Turner is going on about however can see nothing from the FA etc.
Why do these new owners need 2 weeks to sort out hte paperwork??????As normal the Fans will be the last to know.
Makes you wonder about the new owner I thought the decks were clear we were debt FREEE.
JED STUMP UP THE 20K

Oxon-Red says...
11:58am Thu 7 Mar 13

ghanimah wrote:
Oxon-Red wrote:
ghanimah wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
Perhaps you should endeavor to find out before criticising. Your lack of knowledge is your fault and no-one else's.
I think Jockster had a valid point and thanks to the replies he has received a number of us have learned more about the trust. Some rely on this site for information and many may not have known about the trust being set up due to living away from Swindon. COYMR
He may have a valid question if he was unaware of what the Trust has achieved over the years, but he used his own lack of knowledge to essentially accuse John Ward of being self-important. I would suggest that probably isn't the best way of going about things.
Lack of knowledge is why you ask questions.

Until recently many Town fans, including me, were unaware of the Trust. It is only recently that it has been brought to the attention of people, which is a good thing.

I think Jockster raised three important questions.

1. Who is John Ward ?

2. What has the trust done ? i.e. what is its history etc.

3. And why are the Adver contacting John Ward ?

There have been so very good explanations that have answered these questions. Unlike yours which was basically, "don't you know, go and find out" which brings us back to the point of his post I believe.

COYMR

The Jockster says...
12:07pm Thu 7 Mar 13

MITTED wrote:
Stilloyal wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
The trust was formed in the dark days of Donergan & Blatchley when the club REALLY didn't have a dime. What the trust have done , especially in those early days was to pay for loan players and the training ground at Liddington which the club could not afford at that time. The original aim was to buy the club to keep it from the clutches of the aformentioned pair who's intent was to bankrupt the club and build housing and commercial premises on the site. However not enough of the fan base were intrested in forking out a tenner to save the club. They , D & B, almost succeeded due to their wanton and deliberate waste of money eg helicopter rides from London to the C.G instead of driving or taking cheaper forms of transport.. The Trust have quietly done a decent job , however it could do with more members , it's cheap to join and they do worthwhile work behind the scenes as do the official supporters club.
Who needs enemies when we have fellow supporters like Jockster? Rather than slag the Trust off and its chairman in particular, why don't you visit the Trust website and perhaps attend a meeting or two? I promise that you will be enlightened. And just for the record, the Trust was instrumental in helping to save the club, not just from D&B, but later from the Newbury mafia as well. Also, in conjuction with the Supporters Club, it has helped raise £000s for the Red Army Fund. COYR
Mitted my reply to ghanimah equals ditto to yourself. As with Loyal I'm indebted to you for additional information as to why the trust was set up and what it has achieved to date. And now that I know they have a website I'll take a look and I'll ignore your snide comment "who needs enemies etc" ... Because right now and as always clubs of the stature of Swindon need all the support they can get both from the extremely well informed about the Trust supporters like you and those like me of which I'm sure there are many who are not quite so up to speed with their activities and involvement. Cheers!

ghanimah says...
12:10pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Oxon-Red wrote:
ghanimah wrote:
Oxon-Red wrote:
ghanimah wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
Perhaps you should endeavor to find out before criticising. Your lack of knowledge is your fault and no-one else's.
I think Jockster had a valid point and thanks to the replies he has received a number of us have learned more about the trust. Some rely on this site for information and many may not have known about the trust being set up due to living away from Swindon. COYMR
He may have a valid question if he was unaware of what the Trust has achieved over the years, but he used his own lack of knowledge to essentially accuse John Ward of being self-important. I would suggest that probably isn't the best way of going about things.
Lack of knowledge is why you ask questions.

Until recently many Town fans, including me, were unaware of the Trust. It is only recently that it has been brought to the attention of people, which is a good thing.

I think Jockster raised three important questions.

1. Who is John Ward ?

2. What has the trust done ? i.e. what is its history etc.

3. And why are the Adver contacting John Ward ?

There have been so very good explanations that have answered these questions. Unlike yours which was basically, "don't you know, go and find out" which brings us back to the point of his post I believe.

COYMR
Lack of knowledge is a reason to ask questions I quite agree...but it's not a reason to then accuse others of self-importance.

dreamofacleansheet2 says...
12:18pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Med Red don't get me wrong I absolutely want him to strengthen the squad. I actually wanted Jed to say we've. Signed Marlon Pack during his first press conference before he got a manager.

On reflection though KM can still sign players tomorrow morning (embargo willing) and have them available for Saturday. Much better to send message to whole squad that he's going to give them all a chance. Also that he's calm and not going to be rushed into any decision.

As Grim notes with my Terracotta Army I was one of PDC's biggest advocates. That said i really like the way KM is going about his business, everything that has been said about him, particularly the point that he can be a hard disciplinarian. As I've constantly said and this won't change(!), after two years so shambles I want our team to e dedicated, hard working and to act like professional athletes they are - not mess about on a jolly.

Grim I'll see you in the bookies...

the don69 says...
12:22pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Our Groundsman has been nominated for pitch of the year!well deserved too,well done Marcus fancy sorting my back lawn out?LOL!!!!!!

Oxon-Red says...
12:24pm Thu 7 Mar 13

ghanimah wrote:
Oxon-Red wrote:
ghanimah wrote:
Oxon-Red wrote:
ghanimah wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
Perhaps you should endeavor to find out before criticising. Your lack of knowledge is your fault and no-one else's.
I think Jockster had a valid point and thanks to the replies he has received a number of us have learned more about the trust. Some rely on this site for information and many may not have known about the trust being set up due to living away from Swindon. COYMR
He may have a valid question if he was unaware of what the Trust has achieved over the years, but he used his own lack of knowledge to essentially accuse John Ward of being self-important. I would suggest that probably isn't the best way of going about things.
Lack of knowledge is why you ask questions. Until recently many Town fans, including me, were unaware of the Trust. It is only recently that it has been brought to the attention of people, which is a good thing. I think Jockster raised three important questions. 1. Who is John Ward ? 2. What has the trust done ? i.e. what is its history etc. 3. And why are the Adver contacting John Ward ? There have been so very good explanations that have answered these questions. Unlike yours which was basically, "don't you know, go and find out" which brings us back to the point of his post I believe. COYMR
Lack of knowledge is a reason to ask questions I quite agree...but it's not a reason to then accuse others of self-importance.
True, perhaps it could have been worded better but it is qualified by the sentence that follows.

Anyway, the questions have been answered and I think we now are much wiser with regard to the Trust which could now be better supported by us in the future.

However, I suspect there are many fans that do not read these pages that are totally in the dark of the existence of the Trust and all the good work it has done over the years. It could be a good move on Mr Ward's part to distribute leaflets on match days to raise its profile.

COYMR

avo says...
12:27pm Thu 7 Mar 13

whipround anyone

dreamofacleansheet2 says...
12:30pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Don69 thank you or informing me of that. Our pitch is continually brilliant, unlike some of the other swamps and sand pits we've had to endure.

I'm extremely thankful Marcus and his team remain here because if i was running a bigger club I'd definitely be trying to nick him!

He'll win it in racing parlance going away.....

the don69 says...
12:33pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Med Red wrote:
the don69 wrote:
Med Red wrote: No news regards the embargo, despite all the comments on this forum yesterday?? Most fans would like clarification on this matter and yet Mr Morsehead has chosen to ignore the issue, too busy cozying up to the new owners??
Jed said,it will be resolved this week,FL still going through the paper work,they don't know what the words,speedy,hurry or even fast means!LOL!!
Good, when/where did he say that? I hope it's true. Midfield concerns me, apart from Ferry, no creativity. Hopefully KM has someone lined up for when the embargo is lifted.
Jed said that on twitter last night(he likes a tweet ol Jed)Black's been tweeting too!they seem to sing like Canary's on twitter,mystify's me why they blab on that site!!!!!!!!!

the don69 says...
12:41pm Thu 7 Mar 13

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
Don69 thank you or informing me of that. Our pitch is continually brilliant, unlike some of the other swamps and sand pits we've had to endure.

I'm extremely thankful Marcus and his team remain here because if i was running a bigger club I'd definitely be trying to nick him!

He'll win it in racing parlance going away.....
Another statue for your terracotta army,has Grim started building yet?lol!!!!

batch says...
12:53pm Thu 7 Mar 13

The Jockster wrote:
I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else.
Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
You criticise despite being too lazy to google and find out the answers first.

Seriously?

JAFisGod says...
12:55pm Thu 7 Mar 13

John Ward is the current Chairman of TrustSTFC, who is attached to Supporters Direct. He is democratically elected by it's members. (Answering questions 1&3 above)

What has the Trust done? Over the last ten years they have paid for the clubs rental of their training ground, ran the Red Army Fund, paying for players like Gordon Greer, done a ground redevelopment plan, in liaison with the Council and local residents groups, which the club has a copy, but their main job has been to be a big voice in saving this great club from Andy Andronikou and the Newbury mafia.

They were the ones who raised doubts about Diamond Mike years before we nearly went bust. (Just put Trust STFC in the Adver search engine, and read some of the stories from that time), which is probably the greatest thing this organisation could've done. They don't need to publish leaflets telling people what they've achieved...the history speaks for itself.

Steve. Brentford says...
12:57pm Thu 7 Mar 13

My canaries,goldfinches and mules were all tweeting well this morning,must be something in the air!

SummerOf1969 says...
1:04pm Thu 7 Mar 13

JAFisGod wrote:
John Ward is the current Chairman of TrustSTFC, who is attached to Supporters Direct. He is democratically elected by it's members. (Answering questions 1&3 above) What has the Trust done? Over the last ten years they have paid for the clubs rental of their training ground, ran the Red Army Fund, paying for players like Gordon Greer, done a ground redevelopment plan, in liaison with the Council and local residents groups, which the club has a copy, but their main job has been to be a big voice in saving this great club from Andy Andronikou and the Newbury mafia. They were the ones who raised doubts about Diamond Mike years before we nearly went bust. (Just put Trust STFC in the Adver search engine, and read some of the stories from that time), which is probably the greatest thing this organisation could've done. They don't need to publish leaflets telling people what they've achieved...the history speaks for itself.
This.

They also help organised the Orange Campaign, who put pressue of the old board at the time, and put the credibility of Sandy Gray, Bob Holt and Mr Whippy, to the tune that Diamandis had to come out of the woodwork.

Paul Davis, who was Chair of the Trust at the time, worked tirelessly to save this club, and I will one will not forget him for doing so.

the don69 says...
1:08pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Steve. Brentford wrote:
My canaries,goldfinches and mules were all tweeting well this morning,must be something in the air!
What's their Twitter names Steve?lol!!!

Steve. Brentford says...
1:15pm Thu 7 Mar 13

When i asked they told me to go whistle Don, So just for you i will open them an account,Milly,Molly and Mandy,you like...

TheDukeOfBanbury says...
1:19pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Steve. Brentford wrote:
My canaries,goldfinches and mules were all tweeting well this morning,must be something in the air!
They wouldn't be if a sparrowhawk sat in the garden mate :).

Environmental Agency depositing 40 tonnes of gravel in the River for spawning grounds at present.
Nothing in the mink traps for months and the water levels dropping to a reasonable level. One more week to go and looks like I am not going to have any time for the river, however as soon as we have some Sun I am going to land some Tench.

.........I will look out for you Tuesday at Brentford and am on the terraces. Sponsoring the programme Saturday so better be on the best behaviour whilst prawn munching.

Tight Lines Stevo.

Wilesy says...
1:19pm Thu 7 Mar 13

The Jockster wrote:
I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
http://www.truststfc
.com/

Explains it all Jock.

Stickshaker says...
1:21pm Thu 7 Mar 13

I rename this site........ One flew over the Robin's nest!

the don69 says...
1:31pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Stickshaker wrote:
I rename this site........ One flew over the Robin's nest!
LOL!!!!!

Steve. Brentford says...
1:32pm Thu 7 Mar 13

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:
Steve. Brentford wrote:
My canaries,goldfinches and mules were all tweeting well this morning,must be something in the air!
They wouldn't be if a sparrowhawk sat in the garden mate :).

Environmental Agency depositing 40 tonnes of gravel in the River for spawning grounds at present.
Nothing in the mink traps for months and the water levels dropping to a reasonable level. One more week to go and looks like I am not going to have any time for the river, however as soon as we have some Sun I am going to land some Tench.

.........I will look out for you Tuesday at Brentford and am on the terraces. Sponsoring the programme Saturday so better be on the best behaviour whilst prawn munching.

Tight Lines Stevo.
Fair play Dukey,or should it be Sir Duke :) i will be in the Griffin before the game mate,mean time i am trying to catch a last gasp carp from the Tidal Thames but big slimy bream seem to be all that`s about and they are few and far between.
Make sure you lift your little pinkie when sipping your champers with the prawn munchers mate,Enjoy.

Swindon1984 says...
1:38pm Thu 7 Mar 13

JAFisGod wrote:
John Ward is the current Chairman of TrustSTFC, who is attached to Supporters Direct. He is democratically elected by it's members. (Answering questions 1&3 above) What has the Trust done? Over the last ten years they have paid for the clubs rental of their training ground, ran the Red Army Fund, paying for players like Gordon Greer, done a ground redevelopment plan, in liaison with the Council and local residents groups, which the club has a copy, but their main job has been to be a big voice in saving this great club from Andy Andronikou and the Newbury mafia. They were the ones who raised doubts about Diamond Mike years before we nearly went bust. (Just put Trust STFC in the Adver search engine, and read some of the stories from that time), which is probably the greatest thing this organisation could've done. They don't need to publish leaflets telling people what they've achieved...the history speaks for itself.
Fair point, no need to publish leaflets on who they are, but if there's some uncertainty amongst the fan base then maybe a bit of self promotion isn't a bad thing - the more members there are, the stronger an organisation they'll be.

Oxon-Red says...
1:40pm Thu 7 Mar 13

JAFisGod wrote:
John Ward is the current Chairman of TrustSTFC, who is attached to Supporters Direct. He is democratically elected by it's members. (Answering questions 1&3 above) What has the Trust done? Over the last ten years they have paid for the clubs rental of their training ground, ran the Red Army Fund, paying for players like Gordon Greer, done a ground redevelopment plan, in liaison with the Council and local residents groups, which the club has a copy, but their main job has been to be a big voice in saving this great club from Andy Andronikou and the Newbury mafia. They were the ones who raised doubts about Diamond Mike years before we nearly went bust. (Just put Trust STFC in the Adver search engine, and read some of the stories from that time), which is probably the greatest thing this organisation could've done. They don't need to publish leaflets telling people what they've achieved...the history speaks for itself.
Not knocking the work they have done and I suspect I am not alone in being educated this morning. However they should be shouting this from the rooftops and letting others know.

When the Trust was identified on here recently, following Paolo's offer to fund players, I was keen to help. I went on the Trust website to find out more.

The website tells you very little other than how to join. These acheivements should be on there under the History section replacing the "page to be updated soon..." and to be honest this put me off.

The trust has been excellent from what you have said and ALL fans should be made aware of it. Donations could increase as a result, and with the instability of football clubs the funds could be very useful in the future.

There have been moans about Jockster's post, which was worded badly to a certain degree but we have been treated as completely brain dead by some that know and, I suspect, are or have been involved with the Trust.

COYMR

Wilesy says...
2:21pm Thu 7 Mar 13

On another note what about player of the season so far? My running order

1. Wes
2. Ward
3. Ferry

Can only remember 1 off game for Wes (Preston away), 2 off games for Ward (Oxford away, Bury home) and a few ineffective ones from Ferry.

MITTED says...
3:08pm Thu 7 Mar 13

The Jockster wrote:
MITTED wrote:
Stilloyal wrote:
The Jockster wrote: I've often wondered why this chap Ward is given such credence by the Adver. By that I mean who is he? What exactly do the "Trust" actually do or have done? What's the difference between them and the Supporters club because from what I know which is precious little, Mr Ward comes across as someone whom is perhaps full of his own self-importance but not much else. Don't want to do the bloke any disservice but like I said what does he and the Trust actually do that benefits STFC as an entity?
The trust was formed in the dark days of Donergan & Blatchley when the club REALLY didn't have a dime. What the trust have done , especially in those early days was to pay for loan players and the training ground at Liddington which the club could not afford at that time. The original aim was to buy the club to keep it from the clutches of the aformentioned pair who's intent was to bankrupt the club and build housing and commercial premises on the site. However not enough of the fan base were intrested in forking out a tenner to save the club. They , D & B, almost succeeded due to their wanton and deliberate waste of money eg helicopter rides from London to the C.G instead of driving or taking cheaper forms of transport.. The Trust have quietly done a decent job , however it could do with more members , it's cheap to join and they do worthwhile work behind the scenes as do the official supporters club.
Who needs enemies when we have fellow supporters like Jockster? Rather than slag the Trust off and its chairman in particular, why don't you visit the Trust website and perhaps attend a meeting or two? I promise that you will be enlightened. And just for the record, the Trust was instrumental in helping to save the club, not just from D&B, but later from the Newbury mafia as well. Also, in conjuction with the Supporters Club, it has helped raise £000s for the Red Army Fund. COYR
Mitted my reply to ghanimah equals ditto to yourself. As with Loyal I'm indebted to you for additional information as to why the trust was set up and what it has achieved to date. And now that I know they have a website I'll take a look and I'll ignore your snide comment "who needs enemies etc" ... Because right now and as always clubs of the stature of Swindon need all the support they can get both from the extremely well informed about the Trust supporters like you and those like me of which I'm sure there are many who are not quite so up to speed with their activities and involvement. Cheers!
Jockster, despite your protestations, your original post was derogatory to the Trust and John Ward in particular, whether intended or not. If the latter, I apologise for labelling you the enemy although it was said with tongue-in-cheek. ;o)

Here's to 3 points on Saturday.
COYR

wiki27 says...
3:25pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Talking of Saturday....does anyone know if Ferry is fit for the game?

Stilloyal says...
3:37pm Thu 7 Mar 13

When the Trust was formed there was plenty of publicity . They also had bucket collections outside the ground and in nearby pubs on matchdays, when they also issued leaflets asking people to join.
The trust office used to be the building next to SAS travel from where they sold their merchandise.I personally cleared the building of all the rubbish left behind by the football club. Now they meet in a corner in the Legends.
I was living in West London when I joined and I became the first life member. Saying you don't live in Swindon maybe isn't that much of an excuse not to join or why you havn't joined. Possibly if you've not heard of the Trust then maybe you havn't been a fan for that many years. (Not an accusation BTW just a thought )

I too would like to applaud Paul Davis and the other founders of the trust for their outstanding contribution , without which I have no doubt that we'd now be in the Conference or worse.

TheDukeOfBanbury says...
4:07pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Stilloyal wrote:
When the Trust was formed there was plenty of publicity . They also had bucket collections outside the ground and in nearby pubs on matchdays, when they also issued leaflets asking people to join.
The trust office used to be the building next to SAS travel from where they sold their merchandise.I personally cleared the building of all the rubbish left behind by the football club. Now they meet in a corner in the Legends.
I was living in West London when I joined and I became the first life member. Saying you don't live in Swindon maybe isn't that much of an excuse not to join or why you havn't joined. Possibly if you've not heard of the Trust then maybe you havn't been a fan for that many years. (Not an accusation BTW just a thought )

I too would like to applaud Paul Davis and the other founders of the trust for their outstanding contribution , without which I have no doubt that we'd now be in the Conference or worse.
...and to those who stood up to Diamond Mike and who took other lines to topple the old regime ;)

I recall daily calls to Paul Davis and we laugh about that now..........It was good to get back to watching football rather than "campaigning"......T
hey were the days, most were not good.

SummerOf1969 says...
4:10pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Oxon-Red wrote:
JAFisGod wrote: John Ward is the current Chairman of TrustSTFC, who is attached to Supporters Direct. He is democratically elected by it's members. (Answering questions 1&3 above) What has the Trust done? Over the last ten years they have paid for the clubs rental of their training ground, ran the Red Army Fund, paying for players like Gordon Greer, done a ground redevelopment plan, in liaison with the Council and local residents groups, which the club has a copy, but their main job has been to be a big voice in saving this great club from Andy Andronikou and the Newbury mafia. They were the ones who raised doubts about Diamond Mike years before we nearly went bust. (Just put Trust STFC in the Adver search engine, and read some of the stories from that time), which is probably the greatest thing this organisation could've done. They don't need to publish leaflets telling people what they've achieved...the history speaks for itself.
Not knocking the work they have done and I suspect I am not alone in being educated this morning. However they should be shouting this from the rooftops and letting others know. When the Trust was identified on here recently, following Paolo's offer to fund players, I was keen to help. I went on the Trust website to find out more. The website tells you very little other than how to join. These acheivements should be on there under the History section replacing the "page to be updated soon..." and to be honest this put me off. The trust has been excellent from what you have said and ALL fans should be made aware of it. Donations could increase as a result, and with the instability of football clubs the funds could be very useful in the future. There have been moans about Jockster's post, which was worded badly to a certain degree but we have been treated as completely brain dead by some that know and, I suspect, are or have been involved with the Trust. COYMR
Unfortunately, the original Trust website crashed, and the hosting company lost all the historic data, so they've had to set up a new website from scratch.

I believe in time they will add to the website, but when your time is already limited, and don't forget it's all done voluntarily, there is only so much they can do with around 5-6 board members.

Afcb4life says...
4:22pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Swinscum a joke of a club league 2 in few seasons you bunch of tossers

SummerOf1969 says...
4:32pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Afcb4life wrote:
Swinscum a joke of a club league 2 in few seasons you bunch of tossers
Thank you for that lovely comment.

Don't come crying here when the Russian gets fed up, and wants his money back.

And at least we've got 4 stands !!

Steve. Brentford says...
4:53pm Thu 7 Mar 13

A little message; Around here they put out signs, they being the local council i believe,the signs read Do not feed the pigeons or wildlife or as in the case of Afcb4life the vermin.Yep no food and they soon die off, facking hate rats.

Oi Den! says...
5:08pm Thu 7 Mar 13

It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)

the don69 says...
5:11pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Steve. Brentford wrote:
A little message; Around here they put out signs, they being the local council i believe,the signs read Do not feed the pigeons or wildlife or as in the case of Afcb4life the vermin.Yep no food and they soon die off, facking hate rats.
I'm told a little dose of cyanide does the job Steve!heard the Russki is getting fed up bank rolling a bunch of losers!and there's no more of his ill-gotten gains coming to the the Muff!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last step says...
5:14pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Oi Den! wrote:
It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)
Yes, just seen that but nothing reported here yet. Hopefully just an oversight which can be sorted asap.

Steve. Brentford says...
5:20pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Last step wrote:
Oi Den! wrote:
It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)
Yes, just seen that but nothing reported here yet. Hopefully just an oversight which can be sorted asap.
Lets hope so or that embargo is going to be harder to get lifted than many of us thought!

the don69 says...
5:25pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Steve. Brentford wrote:
Last step wrote:
Oi Den! wrote:
It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)
Yes, just seen that but nothing reported here yet. Hopefully just an oversight which can be sorted asap.
Lets hope so or that embargo is going to be harder to get lifted than many of us thought!
It's fine for loaded Paolo to chuck his job,but his back room team ain't loaded!that's them on the dole!can't see Paolo and his team getting a job for a while after quitting like that!cough up what we owe them Jed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

jason900 says...
5:28pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Is anyone else feeling just a bit nervy about the financial side of things:

Turner bleeting about unpaid fees..
Ex staff not being paid...
No new signings....
embargo....

Maybe its just me.

DarrenSTFCRomain says...
5:31pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Afcb4life wrote:
Swinscum a joke of a club league 2 in few seasons you bunch of tossers
Please do me a fav AND DIE..
Your just a silly little girl with PMT now RACKOFF...

afc is that
ANAL=FAT=****=BASHER 4LIFE ??..
Sorry but board

Oxon-Red says...
5:32pm Thu 7 Mar 13

SummerOf1969 wrote:
Oxon-Red wrote:
JAFisGod wrote: John Ward is the current Chairman of TrustSTFC, who is attached to Supporters Direct. He is democratically elected by it's members. (Answering questions 1&3 above) What has the Trust done? Over the last ten years they have paid for the clubs rental of their training ground, ran the Red Army Fund, paying for players like Gordon Greer, done a ground redevelopment plan, in liaison with the Council and local residents groups, which the club has a copy, but their main job has been to be a big voice in saving this great club from Andy Andronikou and the Newbury mafia. They were the ones who raised doubts about Diamond Mike years before we nearly went bust. (Just put Trust STFC in the Adver search engine, and read some of the stories from that time), which is probably the greatest thing this organisation could've done. They don't need to publish leaflets telling people what they've achieved...the history speaks for itself.
Not knocking the work they have done and I suspect I am not alone in being educated this morning. However they should be shouting this from the rooftops and letting others know. When the Trust was identified on here recently, following Paolo's offer to fund players, I was keen to help. I went on the Trust website to find out more. The website tells you very little other than how to join. These acheivements should be on there under the History section replacing the "page to be updated soon..." and to be honest this put me off. The trust has been excellent from what you have said and ALL fans should be made aware of it. Donations could increase as a result, and with the instability of football clubs the funds could be very useful in the future. There have been moans about Jockster's post, which was worded badly to a certain degree but we have been treated as completely brain dead by some that know and, I suspect, are or have been involved with the Trust. COYMR
Unfortunately, the original Trust website crashed, and the hosting company lost all the historic data, so they've had to set up a new website from scratch. I believe in time they will add to the website, but when your time is already limited, and don't forget it's all done voluntarily, there is only so much they can do with around 5-6 board members.
Summer,

Thank you for the update, I appreciate the hard work these guys have done and are doing. I now know a lot more.

Pain in the arris about the websites. I know how long it takes to maintain information on Websites as I do two myself and they are often painfully slow.
I have also lost info which is really frustrating.

I still say that the trust could use the current situation to raise people's awareness of it. Maybe others could be attracted to help share the workload etc

COYMR

avo says...
5:43pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Should be a good crowd saturday. Warsaw should bring a few this time around, although I doubt it'll be as many as the last game of the season in L2 when we both got promoted a few years back.

old town robin says...
6:03pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Steve. Brentford wrote:
Last step wrote:
Oi Den! wrote:
It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)
Yes, just seen that but nothing reported here yet. Hopefully just an oversight which can be sorted asap.
Lets hope so or that embargo is going to be harder to get lifted than many of us thought!
If they have not been paid what they think they are entitled too, there could be a good reason like breach of contract, it works two ways and they could weel of shot themselves in the foot by not giving formal notice. If there are issues then the lawyers are going to look at the situation very carefully before authorising the accountants to settle their claims. personnally good riddance to bad rubbish, let them stew on it, self inflicted and no sympathy forv them.

mallorca says...
6:09pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Come on New Swindon Owners.
Is the Club under an embago??????
There all kinds of rumours etc.Has this new Board actually got any Money???????
The Team has played under terrible presure,a new Boss is in Place.
Yet not apeep about some loan players coming in.
Nothing is never normal at the Town.all tthis paper todddle this week but no info

Now is the time for the new owners to come clean.
Did AB give it to them and there part of the deal was to keep the Town ticking over.
NO JED COME CLEAN

Steve. Brentford says...
6:11pm Thu 7 Mar 13

OTR,
That`s how i would deal with it with my staff but if Swindon play this out then we could shoot ourselves in the foot by putting this sort of thing in public really wont do us no favours,for instance if players,clubs and anyone in the game thinks this is the way we do business then we will struggle to get any decent players be it loans or permanent,so that to me is the reason i would get this out the way,

old town robin says...
6:52pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Steve. Brentford wrote:
OTR,
That`s how i would deal with it with my staff but if Swindon play this out then we could shoot ourselves in the foot by putting this sort of thing in public really wont do us no favours,for instance if players,clubs and anyone in the game thinks this is the way we do business then we will struggle to get any decent players be it loans or permanent,so that to me is the reason i would get this out the way,
Steve,
If they haven't been paid, then for sure the Italian whose name we don't mention hasn't been paid either.

To be honest, I've given up hope this lot will bring in any loanees, I'm really beginning to think we are going to have to go for it with what we've got for the last 11 games, seems like a total mess behind the scenes, big ask for Kev and the boys to get us up, but strangerv things have happened, take one game at a time and see how far we can go is all we can ask for..

Oldhamred says...
7:10pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Oi Den! wrote:
It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)
Does anybody know if the coaching staff were on the same 1 week temorary contract as Paolo?

If they were, then the amount owed cannot be very much.

If not I am not aware if they gave any notice, but the first we heard of their intentions was after the Tranmere game. They were gone the next day.

Even Paolo gave a weeks notice, so I would first establish if they have acted properly before paying them anything.

Steve. Brentford says...
7:15pm Thu 7 Mar 13

old town robin wrote:
Steve. Brentford wrote:
OTR,
That`s how i would deal with it with my staff but if Swindon play this out then we could shoot ourselves in the foot by putting this sort of thing in public really wont do us no favours,for instance if players,clubs and anyone in the game thinks this is the way we do business then we will struggle to get any decent players be it loans or permanent,so that to me is the reason i would get this out the way,
Steve,
If they haven't been paid, then for sure the Italian whose name we don't mention hasn't been paid either.

To be honest, I've given up hope this lot will bring in any loanees, I'm really beginning to think we are going to have to go for it with what we've got for the last 11 games, seems like a total mess behind the scenes, big ask for Kev and the boys to get us up, but strangerv things have happened, take one game at a time and see how far we can go is all we can ask for..
Yep,i`m desperately trying to hold on to any optimism i have left myself, i just keep hoping that teething problems need sorting,god forbid if we lose a couple on the trot,people will not have the patience they appear to have right now,again it wont do us no favours mate.Good to talk OTR.

Oldhamred says...
7:18pm Thu 7 Mar 13

mallorca wrote:
Come on New Swindon Owners.
Is the Club under an embago??????
There all kinds of rumours etc.Has this new Board actually got any Money???????
The Team has played under terrible presure,a new Boss is in Place.
Yet not apeep about some loan players coming in.
Nothing is never normal at the Town.all tthis paper todddle this week but no info

Now is the time for the new owners to come clean.
Did AB give it to them and there part of the deal was to keep the Town ticking over.
NO JED COME CLEAN
F uck it, I just can't be bothered.

He'll only ask the same question tomorrow.

old town robin says...
7:23pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Steve. Brentford wrote:
old town robin wrote:
Steve. Brentford wrote:
OTR,
That`s how i would deal with it with my staff but if Swindon play this out then we could shoot ourselves in the foot by putting this sort of thing in public really wont do us no favours,for instance if players,clubs and anyone in the game thinks this is the way we do business then we will struggle to get any decent players be it loans or permanent,so that to me is the reason i would get this out the way,
Steve,
If they haven't been paid, then for sure the Italian whose name we don't mention hasn't been paid either.

To be honest, I've given up hope this lot will bring in any loanees, I'm really beginning to think we are going to have to go for it with what we've got for the last 11 games, seems like a total mess behind the scenes, big ask for Kev and the boys to get us up, but strangerv things have happened, take one game at a time and see how far we can go is all we can ask for..
Yep,i`m desperately trying to hold on to any optimism i have left myself, i just keep hoping that teething problems need sorting,god forbid if we lose a couple on the trot,people will not have the patience they appear to have right now,again it wont do us no favours mate.Good to talk OTR.
Steve, have to agree, lose against Walsall, Brentford and Yeovil without any movement from our new board and there will be some on here spitting bile and blood.

Good also to talk to a Pinehurst old boy, we always did have the most commonsense didn't we, lol!

Oldhamred says...
7:26pm Thu 7 Mar 13

OTR,
Sorry, just read your 6.03 post.
Same points, but yours makes better reading (allowing for the stubby fingers).

Oi Den! says...
7:27pm Thu 7 Mar 13

What? Even me, OTR?!

old town robin says...
7:32pm Thu 7 Mar 13

mallorca wrote:
Come on New Swindon Owners.
Is the Club under an embago??????
There all kinds of rumours etc.Has this new Board actually got any Money???????
The Team has played under terrible presure,a new Boss is in Place.
Yet not apeep about some loan players coming in.
Nothing is never normal at the Town.all tthis paper todddle this week but no info

Now is the time for the new owners to come clean.
Did AB give it to them and there part of the deal was to keep the Town ticking over.
NO JED COME CLEAN
Hope the new board are not financing our club on pre-season ticket sales, but good chance that may bring in £1 million by the end of march.

the wizard says...
8:10pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Oi Den! wrote:
It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)
Den, They knew what they were doing, and they were instructed to do by The Manipulator. They obviously thought which ever board would go back to them cap-in-hand "Oh boys please stay", NO, they burnt their bridges, and if I were Jed I'd make them wait, especially if they have broken their contract.
They were telling the team on the coach all the way up to Tranmere that they couldn't win the game without The manipulator being in charge, the Manipulator being on the phone to his staff for the entire journey.
Out of work are they, serves them right, they had a good job and blew it.
They thought it was right and proper to leave us high and dry, their future employers may consider that before giving them a second chance.

Okus Road says...
8:32pm Thu 7 Mar 13

the wizard wrote:
Oi Den! wrote:
It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)
Den, They knew what they were doing, and they were instructed to do by The Manipulator. They obviously thought which ever board would go back to them cap-in-hand "Oh boys please stay", NO, they burnt their bridges, and if I were Jed I'd make them wait, especially if they have broken their contract.
They were telling the team on the coach all the way up to Tranmere that they couldn't win the game without The manipulator being in charge, the Manipulator being on the phone to his staff for the entire journey.
Out of work are they, serves them right, they had a good job and blew it.
They thought it was right and proper to leave us high and dry, their future employers may consider that before giving them a second chance.
100% correct Wiz. I know for a fact that it was Ward at half time who got the players together and said WE the players can do this and inspired the team to victory

old town robin says...
8:33pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Oldhamred wrote:
OTR,
Sorry, just read your 6.03 post.
Same points, but yours makes better reading (allowing for the stubby fingers).
didn't know you were also ex-pinehurst Den. I'll put that down as a plus

old town robin says...
8:42pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Oldhamred wrote:
OTR,
Sorry, just read your 6.03 post.
Same points, but yours makes better reading (allowing for the stubby fingers).
yes, Oldham those stubby fingers are a drag on my typing skills, unfortunately I don't seem to be able to implement spell check on this site. I've got windows 7 so I can use it for word and on my e-mail, it has on occassion even appeared on here, but only for one session and it disappears again. Any ideas how I can have it as a feature on here.

Oi Den! says...
8:42pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Okus Road wrote:
the wizard wrote:
Oi Den! wrote:
It seems our recently resigned coaching staff are claiming they've not been paid wages owed to them. (BBC)
Den, They knew what they were doing, and they were instructed to do by The Manipulator. They obviously thought which ever board would go back to them cap-in-hand "Oh boys please stay", NO, they burnt their bridges, and if I were Jed I'd make them wait, especially if they have broken their contract.
They were telling the team on the coach all the way up to Tranmere that they couldn't win the game without The manipulator being in charge, the Manipulator being on the phone to his staff for the entire journey.
Out of work are they, serves them right, they had a good job and blew it.
They thought it was right and proper to leave us high and dry, their future employers may consider that before giving them a second chance.
100% correct Wiz. I know for a fact that it was Ward at half time who got the players together and said WE the players can do this and inspired the team to victory
I wasn't commenting one way or the other. I hold no brief for PDC or the staff who hang on to his coat-tails. My only concern is for the future of the club and the way it conducts itself. I think all acrimony must be left aside and we've got to behave properly regardless of likes and dislikes - unless we want a bad reputation in the game.

old town robin says...
8:48pm Thu 7 Mar 13

old town robin wrote:
Oldhamred wrote:
OTR,
Sorry, just read your 6.03 post.
Same points, but yours makes better reading (allowing for the stubby fingers).
didn't know you were also ex-pinehurst Den. I'll put that down as a plus
oops thos fingers again, reply was meant for Oi den, lol

Bassett Hound says...
9:08pm Thu 7 Mar 13

jason900 wrote:
Is anyone else feeling just a bit nervy about the financial side of things:

Turner bleeting about unpaid fees..
Ex staff not being paid...
No new signings....
embargo....

Maybe its just me.
No it's not just you Jason.I am very concerned.

mancrobin says...
9:39pm Thu 7 Mar 13

SummerOf1969 wrote:
Oxon-Red wrote:
JAFisGod wrote: John Ward is the current Chairman of TrustSTFC, who is attached to Supporters Direct. He is democratically elected by it's members. (Answering questions 1&3 above) What has the Trust done? Over the last ten years they have paid for the clubs rental of their training ground, ran the Red Army Fund, paying for players like Gordon Greer, done a ground redevelopment plan, in liaison with the Council and local residents groups, which the club has a copy, but their main job has been to be a big voice in saving this great club from Andy Andronikou and the Newbury mafia. They were the ones who raised doubts about Diamond Mike years before we nearly went bust. (Just put Trust STFC in the Adver search engine, and read some of the stories from that time), which is probably the greatest thing this organisation could've done. They don't need to publish leaflets telling people what they've achieved...the history speaks for itself.
Not knocking the work they have done and I suspect I am not alone in being educated this morning. However they should be shouting this from the rooftops and letting others know. When the Trust was identified on here recently, following Paolo's offer to fund players, I was keen to help. I went on the Trust website to find out more. The website tells you very little other than how to join. These acheivements should be on there under the History section replacing the "page to be updated soon..." and to be honest this put me off. The trust has been excellent from what you have said and ALL fans should be made aware of it. Donations could increase as a result, and with the instability of football clubs the funds could be very useful in the future. There have been moans about Jockster's post, which was worded badly to a certain degree but we have been treated as completely brain dead by some that know and, I suspect, are or have been involved with the Trust. COYMR
Unfortunately, the original Trust website crashed, and the hosting company lost all the historic data, so they've had to set up a new website from scratch.

I believe in time they will add to the website, but when your time is already limited, and don't forget it's all done voluntarily, there is only so much they can do with around 5-6 board members.
I take the point about volunteer's time and I always feel that if you're going to do these things you should do it properly and pay someone to do it.

The website really does not do the Trust justice and justs frustrates people when interest has been raised due to recent events. I have re-joined recently and if I had the right skills, I'd offer to do the update. Is there no ICT wizard out there who can help?

SAPFanSTFC says...
10:10pm Thu 7 Mar 13

Not being funny folks but whilst I don't wish any ill on the guys, especially as I sat with their families but you do have to say - in regards to all the lack of news.
...
Win on Saturday and I don't care!...the owners and new management team need a good 3 matches / weeks to sort the whole situation out so things will be slow news wise and with that comes excitement / over-emotion....
.
....lets focus on Saturday and Tuesday and then we should all know a lot more by the time we face Yeovil on Sky! (I only say that as a 5pm train gets me there by 9pm and the return leg gets me home at 8am....so that'll be a watch it on TV job then!? :-(

SAPFanSTFC says...
10:14pm Thu 7 Mar 13

....and as for loanees!!!...give poor old MacDonald a chance!!...he's only had a few days to review the squad, options, make contact, discuss with managers, discuss with players, check finances, request medicals, talk to player face-to-face....and finally to persuade them to come.
....
Reading a lot of the above and most players will think "BLIMEY!!...what on earth is happening at the club now!!"
...
Come on folks - Take a Chill Pill and look forward to the match of the season to date on Saturday.
...
Night all.....electric going off soon so enforced early night.

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