Non-League Football Club to Transition to Fan Ownership

Officials have announced that supporters of a non-league football club are poised to assume ownership. Following the model of clubs such as AFC Wimbledon and FC United of Manchester, it was stated that Bilston Town will mark the inaugural fan-owned club within the West Midlands region. The club is slated to transform into a community benefit society, with the initiation of membership sales scheduled for its home game on Saturday, played at lunchtime, against Paget Rangers. Denise Frankham, the club’s chair, commented, “Becoming an owner of Bilston Town FC will help towards protecting and securing its future.” Officials further explained that each member will receive a share in the entity that owns the football club, entitling the holder to a single vote concerning its operational management. Membership options are priced between £10 and £1,000, and businesses are also encouraged to participate. According to the club, shareholders will be provided with a share certificate and additional advantages, such as an owners’ pin badge, the specifics of which will vary based on the chosen membership package. Ms Frankham stated, “We have always believed our club belonged to our fans and community. Our decision to convert to a legal form of community ownership is the best way to ensure that will remain the case.” In 2022, the club successfully obtained a new 35-year lease, a development they indicated would provide “stability for the future” and enable them to expand and seek additional funding for various projects.