Bilston Town supporters braved Storm Darragh to buy shares in the first West Midlands Supporter Owned Club!

The Bilston Town Community Benefit Society (CBS) opened its doors for business and, despite the planned fixture with Paget Rangers in the afternoon being postponed due to the effects of the weather, the Steelman's Lounge saw a flurry of activity with fans eager to snap up a piece of history.

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Each member was issued with a share in the company owning the football club with the 'one share per member' model giving the holder one vote on the running of the Club. 

 

Shareholders not only receive voting rights, but also a Share Certificate and other benefits depending on the package purchased, including a much sought after owners' pin badge and, with packages starting from just £10, the opportunity to stake a claim in the football club is affordable for all.

 

Membership Packages range from £10 to £1000 with packages tailored for businesses also available.

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Bilston FC club Chair, Denise Frankham, said: "We have always believed our Club belonged to our fans and community, said , our decision to convert to a legal form of community ownership is the best way to ensure that will remain the case.

 

"Becoming an owner of Bilston Town FC will help towards protecting and securing its future.

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"We are also grateful to the Football Supporters Association (FSA) for their support to get the CBS up and running and mark a historic day for the club."

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Amongst those to sign up were local MP and long time Bilston Town supporter Pat McFadden who was in attendance to chat to the media and supporters alike as he completed his membership form and collected his certificate.

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Club vice chairman Jay Morgan was delighted with the show of support in the midst of a wet and windy day across the country :

 

"The launch was superb. About 50 people came in to sign up from across the age groups which was brilliant. We also sold some of the new style hats and scarves which was a bonus.

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"It was great to see Pat show his support for the club once again, he was with us for an hour or so and signed up himself while having a chat with supporters and the media."​

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The club has also launched an online application form which will open up the opportunity to buy a share in the club to anyone across the world, whether a Bilston Town supporter or a football fan in general. 

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Please click on the link below to access the online application form :

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Bilston Town Football Club CBS Membership Application Form

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For more information on the Football Supporters Association please visit www.thefsa.org.uk