Bath City supporters’ society vote in favour of £6m takeover bid

A proposed takeover of Bath City, which currently plays in the Southern League Premier South after being relegated last season, has moved one step closer after supporters of the fan-owned club voted overwhelmingly in favour of a £6m takeover bid.

A vote, held on 21 August, saw 96% of the Supporters’ Society vote to accept the offer.

It followed a recommendation from the current board of directors to accept the deal.

The proposal now needs the backing of 90% of all shareholders before it can be finalised, and will need to meet regulatory requirements.

Investment

The bid is being fronted by tech entrepreneur Andrew Stalbow and has the backing, both financial and ambassadorial, of Tears for Fears co-founder, Curt Smith.

The deal will now be voted on by all club shareholders.

Although not quite a foregone conclusion, over 80% have voiced their acceptance of the deal. To proceed, the acquisition needs 90% acceptance.

Bath City was founded in 1889. The Romans have never played in the Football League proper and have been on the brink of collapse several times in its past.

Most recently, the Bath City Supporters’ Society bought a majority share in the club in 2017, with support from actor Ken Loach and former footballer Eric Cantona.

The group raised £350,000 to acquire just over half of the historic club.

Despite some reservations over removing the club from supporter control, it is widely accepted that additional investment is needed.

This shows the level of commitment and love that fans have for their football clubs. 

Community ownership

For many people, football is more than just a game.

Tens of millions of fans watch weekend matches, and the sport has become the topic of movies, TV shows, and even songs.

Its influence can be seen in gaming, including in video slots and online casino games like Football Roulette Live and Big Bass Football Bonanza.

Community-owned clubs offer an additional level of commitment to a club, with individual shareholders given voting rights on major club decisions.

Loach himself said of the proposed transition: “Like others, I still believe in community ownership and I’m sad to see its loss, but it is clear that we do not have the resources to sustain the club or match its ambition.”

If, as expected, the deal proceeds, the proposed owners have highlighted the areas they would invest in.

As well as helping ensure near-term on-field success, the group has said they want to invest in Twerton Park, ensuring the ground is ready for Football League competition.