Successful Fans Forum last night
Around 70 fans attended the launch of the new kit and took the opportunity to question Manager Mark Burchill, Myles Hippolyte, and shareholder Gordon Ford.
Scott Miller from the Youth Foundation acted as MC for the evening. The new kit was very well received and a number of tops were purchased on the night.
Myles Hippolyte with this season’s home shirt
The Manager spoke optimistically about the strength of his playing squad and Myles felt that the players were feelingsharp and looking forward to a good season. Mark spoke about his plans to develop young players and provide opportunities for them. He is very keen to attract young supporters.
Fans were keen to hear about the main issues facing the Club off the field. Gordon Ford outlined the financial pressures the club faces and asked for views on raising funds through a fan payment scheme similar to that in place at Dunfermline. Some fans believed that there could be a significant number of people who would pay up to £20 per month if the money was used to support football matters, not to fund debt repayments. This proposal will be developed further to get a wider supporter view.
Livingston fans were informed that the Club is advertising for new Directors in a national newspaper this Sunday. The Club is looking for people with a range of skills and experiences who can provide us with some financial backing.
Standing room only
Other topics discussed were the Stadium Management Company, need for more match day volunteers, how to increase the fan base, improving communications, and increasing share ownership.
Supporters want the club to look at a payment by Direct Debit system for season tickets, and Gordon Ford promised that this would be looked at for next season. Fans also felt that the licensing arrangements which prevent parents taking their children into the Almondvale Suite and the Club bar could be stopping some families attending matches.
The Supporters Trust, which facilitated the meeting, was pleased to have enrolled a number of new volunteers, and will help contact fans about a stadium clean up before the start of the season.
