Hereford FC Supporters Launch Fundraising Drive to Reclaim Club’s Original Name

Fans of Hereford FC are endeavoring to collect £9,750 with the aim of reinstating the club’s previous designation. Hereford FC was established following the financial collapse of Hereford United in 2014, taking its place. These funds are designated to cover expenses such as altering the signage at the grounds, executing an inventory write-off for existing stock, modifying the club’s current website address, updating the badge, and completing trademark registration. The fan organization, known as Bring Back United, has garnered the backing of Keith Hall, a former club commentator. Mr. Hall stated he would “match their fundraising efforts so that we get more than enough to change the name back to Hereford United.” Mr. Hall commented: “It’s like an opened wound really, it’s the final thing that the club hasn’t managed to do, [because] it’s the same venue at Edgar Street, the same colours and the bull on the badge, its that final step to rectifying matters.” The club faced legal proceedings in the High Court in 2014, having accumulated debts amounting to approximately £1m. Numerous creditors were owed funds by the club, among them HM Revenue and Customs for outstanding tax obligations. Mr. Hall indicated that while supporters bore no responsibility for the club’s financial difficulties, the fundraising initiative underscored their deep dedication to safeguarding the club’s legacy. Mr. Hall stated: “We want to restore the history of the club and make sure for generations to come that when they talk about Hereford, it’s Hereford United and they can look back at the history, good and bad, all the way back to 1924.” Upon the establishment of the new club, regulations stipulated that following Hereford United’s dissolution in 2014, any successor club was prohibited from adopting the name for a duration of five years. Mr. Hall remarked: “For me it’s disappointing it wasn’t done after five years but there seems to be a surge in interest.” He added: “It’s not just about the finances but the perception of whether Hereford should ever be Hereford United again, or is history before 2015 going to be ignored.” Hereford FC has been approached by the BBC for a statement. For updates, follow BBC Hereford & Worcester across BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.