ENTREPRENEUR Simon Lancaster has been revealed as the mystery millionaire behind a cash injection to preserve Worcester City’s future after board chiefs revealed fears the 120-year-old club could fold.
The Worcester-born founder of SJL Insurance Services and committed fund-raiser through the SJL Foundation has laid out his vision for the Blue and Whites in the short-term with plans to ‘drive the club forward’.
It comes as fellow director and main sponsor Martin Pinches warned fans the club ‘may not be able to fulfill its obligations’ next season because of the pressure on fan-owned City’s finances. Mr Lancaster has proposed an investment giving him 51 per cent control of the Claines Lane club while working in partnership with the Worcester City Supporters Trust.
He grew up following City down at St Georges Lane and manages one of his son’s football teams in the Worcester City youth section.
Mr Lancaster joined the board last October and amid concerns over the financial viability of the club, Blue and Whites bosses have unanimously endorsed his plans.
The club has lost money year on year which has affected performances and led to a season which City chiefs labelled ‘nowhere near good enough.’.
In addition to ongoing investment, there will be a ‘new energetic, exciting, business-based approach and structure’ and more in the playing budget for ‘on-field success.
A ‘one club mentality’ bringing together the entire WCFC family from first team, reserves, women and down through the youth and girls teams would be introduced.
The Supporters Trust would get a veto on any change in future ownership from out of Simon’s family and a seat on the board to ensure permanent fan representation.
“I would be honoured and humbled if the supporters trust were to support this proposal,” said Mr Lancaster.
“I would like to pay tribute to Steve and all of my brilliant colleagues on the main board for their unwavering support, and for all of the excellent work they do for the club in often difficult circumstances.
“I would also like to thank the supporters trust, they are a group of amazing people who saved the club from oblivion, brought it home to Worcester and made it possible for the right investor to come in.
“Whatever happens they are also crucial to the club moving forward. I would love to work with them as a partnership, the board, and indeed with everybody connected with WCFC to rebuild a club of which our city can be proud and that our amazing fans deserve.
Club Chairman Steve Goode said: “Whilst we always endeavour to lead the club in the best possible way off the pitch, opportunities for investment and fresh ideas are extremely welcomed and after what has been a prolonged period of uncertainty, this would give us a fantastic platform to progress.’”
