Bath City supporters reach £300,000 target to allow club to become community owned

BATH CITY supporters have managed to raise £300,000 – the amount needed to turn the National League South club into a community-owned asset.

The Big Bath City Bid was launched last year and was boosted by the backing of film director and Bath supporter Ken Loach as well as former Manchester United forward Eric Cantona.

The deal wasn’t concluded then but after being brought back to life, the amount has been secured two days ahead of the deadline.

The £300,000 – achieved through community shares and donations – will allow the fans’ group to purchase a majority stake in the new community club from day one.

They plan to install a more democratic board of directors and embark upon “a new phase of regeneration, engagement and cooperation”.

Nick Blofeld, from The Big Bath City Bid, who will be elected as club chairman, said: “If we can improve performance both on and off the pitch, then it’s a very exciting time.”

The total raised by Tuesday was £323,293 with the appeal ending at midnight on Wednesday. Reaching the £300,000 goal means the same amount in interest-free loans will be available to the club.

The funds will give the Romans added security and allow them to invest in the first team squad while they implement their new business plan and work on the partial redevelopment of Twerton Park.