Dover have great relationship with Supporters' Trust
DOVER ATHLETIC chairman Jim Parmenter looks forward to continuing the board's strong links with their Supporters' Trust next season, writes Justin Allen.
John Farringdon was elected to represent the Trust on the
club's board of directors, having held that post for the past four years.
Whites chairman insists that the Trust and its members are playing a key role in
resurrecting Dover Athletic.
He said: "John Farringdon is continuing as the Trust's representative. I've
got a good relationship with him and the Trust board. We've not had any issues
that have not been dealt with and not received any complaints."
The Trust's position on the club's board is non-executive and it is planned that
this will continue. This is an arrangement, says the Whites chairman, that has
worked well since Jim's consortium took over the Ryman League club in January.
Although the Trust does not have a formal vote, the supporters are fairly
represented on the board.
Parmenter explained: "There are six executive directors and one
non-executive. Voting is set up where things are only decided if it is
agreed unanimously. With six other directors, a Trust vote wouldn't make
any difference.
"At a majority of clubs in this country, supporters don't have any kind of
representation at all. We are one of a few clubs that have a supporters'
representative on the board. John will let us know the supporters' views and
we'll listen to him, as well as take on board any ideas or suggestions that are
offered.
"There is no discussion on introducing a vote. We agreed that the Trust has
representation on the board and that will continue.
"The problem is you cannot reveal everything that is discussed at board
meetings in public. We cannot have a situation where boardroom business is
discussed among fans - some stuff is private and has to stay that way. It's like
that in any successful business.
"But, as I said, most supporters would fight tooth and nail for what Dover
fans have at this club which is a good and successful relationship with the
board. And, as far as I'm aware, they are happy with the current arrangement and
their input.
"Long may that continue because we need everyone singing from the same
songsheet if we're to get this club back on the up. And I urge all fans to join
the Trust, and those who haven't renewed their membership to do so, because it's
absolutely vital that fans have an input into the club."
Jim, meanwhile, hopes to make an announcement on new signings within the next
few days. He said: "Something could happen by Saturday and we'll be holding
a weekend press conference if there is any news."
Work has now started on the new floodlights and they should be installed within
the next two weeks.