Saturday, October 14, 2006
Brown and Out!
A great victory for the supporters of East Fife FC
Well done everyone!
BROWN SILENT AS TRUST JOINS BOARD
From the East Fife Mail
THE drawn-out saga surrounding the resignation of Derrick Brown as an East Fife director continues.
Chief executive Sid Collumbine still hasn't heard from the former chairman, who had indicated he would call it a day after being told his services as treasurer/secretary were no longer required.
Last week, Mr Collumbine insisted the matter will be resolved sooner rather than later, even if that meant holding an extraordinary general meeting. It had been rumoured the delay could be down to Mr Brown looking for another club so he could stay on the SFA board for his final year.
Mr Collumbine said: "I haven't heard a word from Mr Brown in the last week."I think he will resign but it's just a matter of when. He is holding off for some reason but hopefully it will be sorted soon."
Meanwhile, Mr Collumbine has confirmed the East Fife Supporters' Trust will have a place on the board. He said: "There will be a trust member on the board at some stage but there are things to sort out first so it won't happen immediately."
The trust is content to play the waiting game and a spokesman said: "We know these things are going to take a while to sort out but membership on the board is very much part of our plans."
But the articles of the club have to change before that can happen. We are in contact with the board and are working towards that, which should be sorted at the club's annual general meeting."
THE drawn-out saga surrounding the resignation of Derrick Brown as an East Fife director continues.
Chief executive Sid Collumbine still hasn't heard from the former chairman, who had indicated he would call it a day after being told his services as treasurer/secretary were no longer required.
Last week, Mr Collumbine insisted the matter will be resolved sooner rather than later, even if that meant holding an extraordinary general meeting. It had been rumoured the delay could be down to Mr Brown looking for another club so he could stay on the SFA board for his final year.
Mr Collumbine said: "I haven't heard a word from Mr Brown in the last week."I think he will resign but it's just a matter of when. He is holding off for some reason but hopefully it will be sorted soon."
Meanwhile, Mr Collumbine has confirmed the East Fife Supporters' Trust will have a place on the board. He said: "There will be a trust member on the board at some stage but there are things to sort out first so it won't happen immediately."
The trust is content to play the waiting game and a spokesman said: "We know these things are going to take a while to sort out but membership on the board is very much part of our plans."
But the articles of the club have to change before that can happen. We are in contact with the board and are working towards that, which should be sorted at the club's annual general meeting."
Board Statement, the end for Derrick Brown
There has been considerable speculation about the position of Derrick Brown at the club. We can confirm that Derrick Brown has now been relieved of all his operational duties and responsibilities at the club. He has also been requested to resign as a Director and confirmation of his resignation is expected shortly when legal details have been finalised.
As part of a range of measures to bring stability and direction back to the club the Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Sid Collumbine, Vice-Chairman, as Chief Executive of the club.
In addition four former directors of the club have been appointed as Associate Directors – Bruce Black has been appointed as Company Secretary and Jim Stevenson as Football Secretary. Dave Marshall will look after the stadium and John Barclay will work on commercial matters.
The Board is confident that after a period of uncertainty the club is now well placed to move forward and prosper both on and off the field.
As part of a range of measures to bring stability and direction back to the club the Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Sid Collumbine, Vice-Chairman, as Chief Executive of the club.
In addition four former directors of the club have been appointed as Associate Directors – Bruce Black has been appointed as Company Secretary and Jim Stevenson as Football Secretary. Dave Marshall will look after the stadium and John Barclay will work on commercial matters.
The Board is confident that after a period of uncertainty the club is now well placed to move forward and prosper both on and off the field.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Chairman's statement to the supporters
I feel it is my duty as chairman of East Fife FC to enlighten supporters as to the reasons of my resignation on Friday evening, which was later rejected by the board and withdrawn by myself.
On coming to this club last year, I witnessed mass protests, marches and boycotts against former chairman Derrick Brown, who was at the time, a friend of mine and the one who invited me to Bayview. “What could be so bad?” I thought, watching the supporters tirelessly campaign against this man.
Now I know only too well!
Since my appointment as chairman Derrick Brown has shown no respect for any democratic decisions made by the board, he has sought to make life as difficult as possible for all concerned at this club, from the directors, the management, to the players and those who work in and around the stadium.
I have been appalled at his conduct, and due to yet another unpleasant incident last week I had decided that enough was enough and I was going to call it a day. However, I began to regret this decision almost instantly, the support and backing I have received from the fans, players and everyone at this club has been an inspiration to me and re-affirms my view that we are working together to make East Fife FC a force in football once more.
I will not let the actions of one man destroy this aim, when I took over as chairman I said that I will work with everyone who shares this goal to get the club back on its feet, I make that point again, we will take this club forward and those who attempt to sabotage this have no place at this club, not today, not ever.
I want to thank everyone again for their support, and I look forward to seeing you all on Saturday.
Willie Gray
Chairman
On coming to this club last year, I witnessed mass protests, marches and boycotts against former chairman Derrick Brown, who was at the time, a friend of mine and the one who invited me to Bayview. “What could be so bad?” I thought, watching the supporters tirelessly campaign against this man.
Now I know only too well!
Since my appointment as chairman Derrick Brown has shown no respect for any democratic decisions made by the board, he has sought to make life as difficult as possible for all concerned at this club, from the directors, the management, to the players and those who work in and around the stadium.
I have been appalled at his conduct, and due to yet another unpleasant incident last week I had decided that enough was enough and I was going to call it a day. However, I began to regret this decision almost instantly, the support and backing I have received from the fans, players and everyone at this club has been an inspiration to me and re-affirms my view that we are working together to make East Fife FC a force in football once more.
I will not let the actions of one man destroy this aim, when I took over as chairman I said that I will work with everyone who shares this goal to get the club back on its feet, I make that point again, we will take this club forward and those who attempt to sabotage this have no place at this club, not today, not ever.
I want to thank everyone again for their support, and I look forward to seeing you all on Saturday.
Willie Gray
Chairman
Sunday, August 27, 2006
"Doon wi Broon"
Special feature in the official AFC Wimbledon match programme
While the Dons were playing at Aldershot on 5 August, Finance Director Erik Samuelson was at the Bayview Stadium, Methil, where East Fife were hosts to Stenhousemuir in the Scottish League Division Third Division.
“In early July Matthew McLean, of the East Fife Supporters’ Trust (“EFST”), invited us to send a speaker to a dinner to celebrate changes in the board at East Fife and the likely appointment to the board of an EFST representative. The club and the Dons Trust feel that, whenever we can, we should support other trusts and so my wife Eileen and I decided to make a short break of it and accept .”
The reasons that we were invited to send a speaker to the dinner are complicated but, in many ways, they are just a variation on an old theme of fans versus board/chairman. There are lots of extraordinary stories of football ownership but East Fife’s has some unique features. On 3 December 2005, The Scotsman published an article in which it speculated how the major shareholder in East Fife might feel about a particular controversy and went on to say “… (the major shareholder) was oblivious to the controversy as she was ill and unable to attend school.” It seems that control of a Scottish football club was in the hands of an eight-year old girl whose shareholding had helped the then chairman, Mr Derrick Brown, to his position as chairman of East Fife.
Fans were already disturbed by the broad reach of Mr Brown’s influence, illustrated by his listing in the Scottish Football Review handbook as Chairman, Chief Executive, Secretary and media liaison person.
The fans turned to protest following an attempt by EFST to buy £10,000 worth of shares in the club. The offer was initially rejected by the board and this led to months of unrest as supporters questioned the board’s motives. They started by boycotting games and congregating on “the mound”, just outside the ground, which allowed them to watch their beloved team over the wall, while avoiding putting money into the club’s coffers. The club responded by putting up plastic flags to block the view; the fans merely shifted their position so that they could still see.
Shortly after the protest started, the club agreed to sell 1,000 shares to EFST but many of the protesters decided to keep going. With the “Doon wi’ Broon” protest gaining momentum, there followed a range of events, including protests at away games, a march (see photograph) and a chicken entered the ground to offer a personal taxi service to the beleaguered Mr Brown.
The story is long and complex but, in August a new chairman was appointed and Mr Brown became club secretary. While this was less than the protesters had hoped to achieve they nonetheless felt that this was real progress and invited us to talk to them about our experiences and to try to relate them to the issues facing them at Bayview.
Erik and Eileen offered to watch from the mound, as the protest was still continuing, but Matthew convinced them to go inside. “We sat in a neutral zone to watch the game, near the impeccably turned out Stenhousemuir directors. To be honest, I’m not competent enough to know how well the standard (of football, not directors’ dress sense) compares to ours, but both clubs tried to play football and there was quite a lot of excitement even though it ended 0 – 0. We enjoyed it.”
In the evening, Erik and Eileen attended a buffet dinner at a local hotel and Erik talked about our experiences, from the protest era (in which he admitted he played little part) to the recent offer to buy the club. East Fife’s attendances of late have been very low, with a gate of about 450 (excluding the mound) for the game, but many of the issues are the same. Supporters insist however that the fan base is there, with them taking 1300 fans to a midweek cup tie in Dunfermline a couple of years ago before the real trouble had started.
Matthew McLean said “we were delighted when Erik said he’d come to our dinner and everyone felt it was a worthwhile evening’s discussion. It is good to know that there are friends out there at other clubs who are willing to give up their time for each other. We’ve created a link now and I am sure that it will continue.”
One of the links will definitely continue as we are delighted to welcome Matthew to today’s game. He has moved south to pursue his career as a greenkeeper and will be coming to as many of our matches as he can. “I came to the East Thurrock game last year and really enjoyed it, so I’ve adopted AFC Wimbledon as my team in England” said Matthew. With East Fife joint top of the league at the time of writing and AFC Wimbledon making a good start too, I am hoping for two promotions in one season.”
“Eileen and I had a good time at the match and the dinner and we stayed at lovely hotel in Largo, right beside the sea. It was good to have a break after a long summer planning the new season, to meet some terrific people and to offer support for them in their struggle.”
While the Dons were playing at Aldershot on 5 August, Finance Director Erik Samuelson was at the Bayview Stadium, Methil, where East Fife were hosts to Stenhousemuir in the Scottish League Division Third Division.
“In early July Matthew McLean, of the East Fife Supporters’ Trust (“EFST”), invited us to send a speaker to a dinner to celebrate changes in the board at East Fife and the likely appointment to the board of an EFST representative. The club and the Dons Trust feel that, whenever we can, we should support other trusts and so my wife Eileen and I decided to make a short break of it and accept .”
The reasons that we were invited to send a speaker to the dinner are complicated but, in many ways, they are just a variation on an old theme of fans versus board/chairman. There are lots of extraordinary stories of football ownership but East Fife’s has some unique features. On 3 December 2005, The Scotsman published an article in which it speculated how the major shareholder in East Fife might feel about a particular controversy and went on to say “… (the major shareholder) was oblivious to the controversy as she was ill and unable to attend school.” It seems that control of a Scottish football club was in the hands of an eight-year old girl whose shareholding had helped the then chairman, Mr Derrick Brown, to his position as chairman of East Fife.
Fans were already disturbed by the broad reach of Mr Brown’s influence, illustrated by his listing in the Scottish Football Review handbook as Chairman, Chief Executive, Secretary and media liaison person.
The fans turned to protest following an attempt by EFST to buy £10,000 worth of shares in the club. The offer was initially rejected by the board and this led to months of unrest as supporters questioned the board’s motives. They started by boycotting games and congregating on “the mound”, just outside the ground, which allowed them to watch their beloved team over the wall, while avoiding putting money into the club’s coffers. The club responded by putting up plastic flags to block the view; the fans merely shifted their position so that they could still see.
Shortly after the protest started, the club agreed to sell 1,000 shares to EFST but many of the protesters decided to keep going. With the “Doon wi’ Broon” protest gaining momentum, there followed a range of events, including protests at away games, a march (see photograph) and a chicken entered the ground to offer a personal taxi service to the beleaguered Mr Brown.
The story is long and complex but, in August a new chairman was appointed and Mr Brown became club secretary. While this was less than the protesters had hoped to achieve they nonetheless felt that this was real progress and invited us to talk to them about our experiences and to try to relate them to the issues facing them at Bayview.
Erik and Eileen offered to watch from the mound, as the protest was still continuing, but Matthew convinced them to go inside. “We sat in a neutral zone to watch the game, near the impeccably turned out Stenhousemuir directors. To be honest, I’m not competent enough to know how well the standard (of football, not directors’ dress sense) compares to ours, but both clubs tried to play football and there was quite a lot of excitement even though it ended 0 – 0. We enjoyed it.”
In the evening, Erik and Eileen attended a buffet dinner at a local hotel and Erik talked about our experiences, from the protest era (in which he admitted he played little part) to the recent offer to buy the club. East Fife’s attendances of late have been very low, with a gate of about 450 (excluding the mound) for the game, but many of the issues are the same. Supporters insist however that the fan base is there, with them taking 1300 fans to a midweek cup tie in Dunfermline a couple of years ago before the real trouble had started.
Matthew McLean said “we were delighted when Erik said he’d come to our dinner and everyone felt it was a worthwhile evening’s discussion. It is good to know that there are friends out there at other clubs who are willing to give up their time for each other. We’ve created a link now and I am sure that it will continue.”
One of the links will definitely continue as we are delighted to welcome Matthew to today’s game. He has moved south to pursue his career as a greenkeeper and will be coming to as many of our matches as he can. “I came to the East Thurrock game last year and really enjoyed it, so I’ve adopted AFC Wimbledon as my team in England” said Matthew. With East Fife joint top of the league at the time of writing and AFC Wimbledon making a good start too, I am hoping for two promotions in one season.”
“Eileen and I had a good time at the match and the dinner and we stayed at lovely hotel in Largo, right beside the sea. It was good to have a break after a long summer planning the new season, to meet some terrific people and to offer support for them in their struggle.”
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Chairman vows to lift Fifers’ fortunes
From The Courier
EAST FIFE’S new chairman has pledged to get the proud football club “back on its feet” after taking the reins as part of the new-look Bayview board.
Willie Gray was appointed following last month’s boardroom overhaul which saw Falkirk businessman Sid Collumbine installed as vice-chairman and departing chairman Derrick Brown handed the role of part-time treasurer/secretary.
But despite continued unrest among many supporters, the former Raith director—who described his appointment as a “great honour”— has urged fans to get behind the club’s new era.
“Though I have never claimed to be a life-long supporter of the club, I have learned much about it in recent months—the great history and achievements of the past are something that few clubs can boast,” he said.
“The challenge to bring some long overdue silverware back to Methil in the present day is one that I will relish, and I’m sure the fans will, too.
“I think it would be fair to say that this club has been brought to its knees in recent years. Frustration and anger amongst the support has been understandably high, and rightly so.
“We have drastically improved the on-field situation at the club with the appointment of a quality manager, David Baikie, and investment in a talented squad of players who will hopefully achieve promotion this season.
“We are also well aware, however, that essential changes in the boardroom are needed to allow the club to flourish.
“Supporters can rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to bring about these changes, but they don’t happen overnight.
“The past achievements of East Fife FC are something huge to live up to, but if we do it with the same spirit that this club held in days gone by, then anything is possible.”
A group of dissenting supporters, who had waged a lengthy campaign against Brown’s involvement with the club, recently suspended their protests after it became clear that Collumbine and Gray wanted to involve the supporters’ trust on the club’s board.
Despite many returning to the ground, Gray acknowledged that much more had to be done to rebuild the club’s image and strengthen links with the community.
“The protests and demonstrations by the supporters show a great passion and desire for change at this club,” he added.
“This is something I commend and now that the wheels of change are in motion, I hope that the supporters can unite with Sid and I, in order that we can bring about the changes needed to get the club back on its feet.
“I understand that many hundreds of supporters are still staying away from Bayview on match days.
“It is the responsibility of the club to win these people back, and I am sure that with the changes under way off the field, and the success on it, we can soon hope to see people coming back to watch their team in large numbers.”
EAST FIFE’S new chairman has pledged to get the proud football club “back on its feet” after taking the reins as part of the new-look Bayview board.
Willie Gray was appointed following last month’s boardroom overhaul which saw Falkirk businessman Sid Collumbine installed as vice-chairman and departing chairman Derrick Brown handed the role of part-time treasurer/secretary.
But despite continued unrest among many supporters, the former Raith director—who described his appointment as a “great honour”— has urged fans to get behind the club’s new era.
“Though I have never claimed to be a life-long supporter of the club, I have learned much about it in recent months—the great history and achievements of the past are something that few clubs can boast,” he said.
“The challenge to bring some long overdue silverware back to Methil in the present day is one that I will relish, and I’m sure the fans will, too.
“I think it would be fair to say that this club has been brought to its knees in recent years. Frustration and anger amongst the support has been understandably high, and rightly so.
“We have drastically improved the on-field situation at the club with the appointment of a quality manager, David Baikie, and investment in a talented squad of players who will hopefully achieve promotion this season.
“We are also well aware, however, that essential changes in the boardroom are needed to allow the club to flourish.
“Supporters can rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to bring about these changes, but they don’t happen overnight.
“The past achievements of East Fife FC are something huge to live up to, but if we do it with the same spirit that this club held in days gone by, then anything is possible.”
A group of dissenting supporters, who had waged a lengthy campaign against Brown’s involvement with the club, recently suspended their protests after it became clear that Collumbine and Gray wanted to involve the supporters’ trust on the club’s board.
Despite many returning to the ground, Gray acknowledged that much more had to be done to rebuild the club’s image and strengthen links with the community.
“The protests and demonstrations by the supporters show a great passion and desire for change at this club,” he added.
“This is something I commend and now that the wheels of change are in motion, I hope that the supporters can unite with Sid and I, in order that we can bring about the changes needed to get the club back on its feet.
“I understand that many hundreds of supporters are still staying away from Bayview on match days.
“It is the responsibility of the club to win these people back, and I am sure that with the changes under way off the field, and the success on it, we can soon hope to see people coming back to watch their team in large numbers.”
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Chairman's statement to supporters
To all supporters of East Fife FC
As you will know, I was recently appointed to the position of Chairman. It is a great honour for me to hold such a position at a club with as proud and as colourful a history as East Fife FC. Though I have never claimed to be a lifelong supporter of the club, I have learned much about it in recent months, the great history and achievements of the past are something that few clubs can boast. The challenge to bring some long overdue silverware back to Methil in the present day is one that I will relish, and I’m sure the fans will too.
I think it would be fair to say that this club has been brought to its knees in recent years. Frustration and anger amongst the support has been understandably high, and rightly so. The protests and demonstrations by the supporters show a great passion and desire for change at this club. This is something I commend, and now that the wheels of change are in motion, I hope that the supporters can unite with Sid and I, in order that we can bring about the changes needed to get the club back on its feet.
We have drastically improved the on-field situation at the club with the appointment of a quality manager, David Baikie, and investment in a talented squad of players who will hopefully achieve promotion this season. We are also well aware however, that essential changes in the boardroom are needed to allow the club to flourish. Supporters can rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to bring about these changes, but they don’t happen overnight.
I feel that the East Fife Supporters Trust has a big role to play in the future of the club and we look forward to working closely with them to achieve long term success, both on and off the park, for East Fife FC. I would encourage all fans to join the Trust and give them your support, I know I will be!
It is also important that we work closely with other groups connected to the club, the East Fife Supporters Club, The Fife Fans for the Future group, the East Fife Ladies team and the Junior Supporters Club. Every one has a role to play in this new era, and we welcome the input, support and participation of everyone with a desire to see East Fife FC reach its full potential.
I understand that many hundreds of supporters are still staying away from Bayview on match days. It is the responsibility of the club to win these people back, and I am sure that with the changes underway off the field, and the success on it, we can soon hope to see people coming back to watch their team in large numbers. I would appeal to all supporters who were not thinking of returning, in the near future or at all, to attend our next home game so come and introduce yourselves to me, tell me your opinions and views. I want to be as open as possible and I will always give an honest answer.
If anyone remains unconvinced at this point then please write to me at the club, and again I will always do my best to explain things and ask for your support. For the first time in a good few years East Fife FC is takinggiant steps forward. With your support, input and our hard work combined we can keep this success going on and off the park. The past achievements of East Fife FC are something huge to live up to, but if we do it with the same spirit that this club held in days gone by, then anything is possible!
Willie Gray
Chairman
As you will know, I was recently appointed to the position of Chairman. It is a great honour for me to hold such a position at a club with as proud and as colourful a history as East Fife FC. Though I have never claimed to be a lifelong supporter of the club, I have learned much about it in recent months, the great history and achievements of the past are something that few clubs can boast. The challenge to bring some long overdue silverware back to Methil in the present day is one that I will relish, and I’m sure the fans will too.
I think it would be fair to say that this club has been brought to its knees in recent years. Frustration and anger amongst the support has been understandably high, and rightly so. The protests and demonstrations by the supporters show a great passion and desire for change at this club. This is something I commend, and now that the wheels of change are in motion, I hope that the supporters can unite with Sid and I, in order that we can bring about the changes needed to get the club back on its feet.
We have drastically improved the on-field situation at the club with the appointment of a quality manager, David Baikie, and investment in a talented squad of players who will hopefully achieve promotion this season. We are also well aware however, that essential changes in the boardroom are needed to allow the club to flourish. Supporters can rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to bring about these changes, but they don’t happen overnight.
I feel that the East Fife Supporters Trust has a big role to play in the future of the club and we look forward to working closely with them to achieve long term success, both on and off the park, for East Fife FC. I would encourage all fans to join the Trust and give them your support, I know I will be!
It is also important that we work closely with other groups connected to the club, the East Fife Supporters Club, The Fife Fans for the Future group, the East Fife Ladies team and the Junior Supporters Club. Every one has a role to play in this new era, and we welcome the input, support and participation of everyone with a desire to see East Fife FC reach its full potential.
I understand that many hundreds of supporters are still staying away from Bayview on match days. It is the responsibility of the club to win these people back, and I am sure that with the changes underway off the field, and the success on it, we can soon hope to see people coming back to watch their team in large numbers. I would appeal to all supporters who were not thinking of returning, in the near future or at all, to attend our next home game so come and introduce yourselves to me, tell me your opinions and views. I want to be as open as possible and I will always give an honest answer.
If anyone remains unconvinced at this point then please write to me at the club, and again I will always do my best to explain things and ask for your support. For the first time in a good few years East Fife FC is takinggiant steps forward. With your support, input and our hard work combined we can keep this success going on and off the park. The past achievements of East Fife FC are something huge to live up to, but if we do it with the same spirit that this club held in days gone by, then anything is possible!
Willie Gray
Chairman
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Statement on protests
Following a number of discussions with fellow supporters and also with the chair and vice chair of our club, we have decided to call for an end to the current match day protests for the time being. I think we would all agree that this tactic was very successful in achieving the first step, removing Brown from the chair, but a different strategy is needed for the second stage which will see him removed from the club altogether.
As has been said all along though, we cannot end the protests simply by announcing an end. Supporters are free to do as they wish, to choose when and where to spend their money, if supporters remain unconvinced that Derrick Brown will remain at the club for any length of time they will not come back. This is an urgent problem that needs to be addressed by the club. It is not only the money of the 40 or 50 fans on the mound that the club has lost out in, but the hundreds who stay away altogether.
Only be clearing the initial hurdle of removing the ex-chairman, and by uniting with the supporters and their organisations to conduct patient and tireless work in the local community, can the club begin the long task of winning back layers of fans who had previously seen enough, but also new fans who need to be attracted to the club.
When we spoke with Erik Samuelson, the AFC Wimbledon director who visited early in the month, he said that being a community club was so much harder in London because of the competition they faced from so many other teams. He commented on how lucky we were to have such a large area which was represented by a single senior club, our club. It is time to stamp the mark of East Fife FC over this area once again.
But again, before this work can begin we need to close the last chapter, however soon that might be is now in the hands of the board, the fans wait in anticipation for this decision to be made, and for the green light to be given to re-build this great, proud and famous club.
Matthew McLean
As has been said all along though, we cannot end the protests simply by announcing an end. Supporters are free to do as they wish, to choose when and where to spend their money, if supporters remain unconvinced that Derrick Brown will remain at the club for any length of time they will not come back. This is an urgent problem that needs to be addressed by the club. It is not only the money of the 40 or 50 fans on the mound that the club has lost out in, but the hundreds who stay away altogether.
Only be clearing the initial hurdle of removing the ex-chairman, and by uniting with the supporters and their organisations to conduct patient and tireless work in the local community, can the club begin the long task of winning back layers of fans who had previously seen enough, but also new fans who need to be attracted to the club.
When we spoke with Erik Samuelson, the AFC Wimbledon director who visited early in the month, he said that being a community club was so much harder in London because of the competition they faced from so many other teams. He commented on how lucky we were to have such a large area which was represented by a single senior club, our club. It is time to stamp the mark of East Fife FC over this area once again.
But again, before this work can begin we need to close the last chapter, however soon that might be is now in the hands of the board, the fans wait in anticipation for this decision to be made, and for the green light to be given to re-build this great, proud and famous club.
Matthew McLean
Anti-Brown Protest Suspended
From the East Fife Mail
The nine month public protest by East Fife supporters is over – for the moment at least. The protestors had been campaigning vigorously for the removal of former chairman Derrick Brown from the club following his refusal to sell shares to supporters and to allow them to become involved more in the club. A very active campaign had been waged, including a march through Leven led by a pipe band and regular demonstrations both at home and away matches.
The temporary suspension follows changes at the club which have seen a new chairman in the form of Willie Gray and new director Sid Collumbine who have signalled their desire to involve the Supporters’ Trust on the club board. In his statement calling for the protest to be temporarily suspended, Matthew McLean, one of the protest leaders said:
“Now we have cleared our initial hurdle of removing Derrick Brown as club chairman it is time to alter our strategy and give the reconstructed board the chance to bring about other changes. We want the supporters to be able to work with the club to rebuild this proud and famous club. As AFC Wimbledon director Erik Samuelson said at a supporters meeting recently, East Fife have the potential again to be a strong community club. In the meantime our discussions with Mr Gray have convinced us that Derrick Brown will not remain at the club for any length of time and should that prove to be the case we will be happy to renew our support for the club. This should result in considerable financial benefits to East Fife FC.
Our fellow protestors will watch with interest over the next few weeks to see the final closure of an unpleasant chapter in the club history and look forward to concentrating on results on the football field”
The nine month public protest by East Fife supporters is over – for the moment at least. The protestors had been campaigning vigorously for the removal of former chairman Derrick Brown from the club following his refusal to sell shares to supporters and to allow them to become involved more in the club. A very active campaign had been waged, including a march through Leven led by a pipe band and regular demonstrations both at home and away matches.
The temporary suspension follows changes at the club which have seen a new chairman in the form of Willie Gray and new director Sid Collumbine who have signalled their desire to involve the Supporters’ Trust on the club board. In his statement calling for the protest to be temporarily suspended, Matthew McLean, one of the protest leaders said:
“Now we have cleared our initial hurdle of removing Derrick Brown as club chairman it is time to alter our strategy and give the reconstructed board the chance to bring about other changes. We want the supporters to be able to work with the club to rebuild this proud and famous club. As AFC Wimbledon director Erik Samuelson said at a supporters meeting recently, East Fife have the potential again to be a strong community club. In the meantime our discussions with Mr Gray have convinced us that Derrick Brown will not remain at the club for any length of time and should that prove to be the case we will be happy to renew our support for the club. This should result in considerable financial benefits to East Fife FC.
Our fellow protestors will watch with interest over the next few weeks to see the final closure of an unpleasant chapter in the club history and look forward to concentrating on results on the football field”
Saturday, August 05, 2006
East Fife fans to continue their protests
From The Courier
WHILE THE new football season kicks-off for East Fife this afternoon, the fans’ protests which were witnessed at the end of last term are set to continue outside the New Bayview ground.
Supporters remain angry that outgoing chairman Derrick Brown has now been offered a part-time administrative position at the Methil club, despite calling for him to be removed completely during several demonstrations at home games last season.
New vice-chairman Sid Collumbine has already publicly urged fans to return to the ground to give their backing to the players ahead of their bid for promotion to division two.
However, at a fans’ meeting at the Wellesley Inn in Methil on Thursday, around 30 supporters agreed that they would not return to the stadium until Mr Brown cuts all ties with the club—instead choosing to view the action from a mound outside the stadium.
Former director Dave Marshall, who has been at the forefront of calls for a complete change at New Bayview, said those in attendance “unanimously agreed that the protests would continue unabated” until Mr Brown stepped down completely.
Stressing that Mr Brown’s appointment as treasurer/secretary had done nothing to “diminish the determination” of the protesters, Mr Marshall said, “In fact, it has only increased the volume of protest.
“The mature and realistic manner in which the protesters have carried out their campaign was again evident in their approach to seeking a solution to the apparent problems being encountered to his removal by new chairman Willie Gray and Sid Collumbine.
“A meeting is requested as soon as possible in order to begin the rebuilding of our club.
“If, at this meeting, the new regime could give certain assurances as to a time scale for Derrick’s final departure then a return to supporting the team inside the stadium could become a distinct possibility.”
Mr Marshall said he had received other calls of support from other fans who could not make it to Thursday’s meeting and maintained that honesty had to be a “basic requirement” if relations between fans and the new look board were to improve.
“We have been asked to trust the new board but this has to be a two-way process,” he added.
“Manager Dave Baikie and his team are about to set out to improve our image on the playing field.
“It is therefore imperative that the board and supporters are there to assist them in every way possible.”
East Fife welcome title favourites Stenhousemuir to Methil this afternoon.
WHILE THE new football season kicks-off for East Fife this afternoon, the fans’ protests which were witnessed at the end of last term are set to continue outside the New Bayview ground.
Supporters remain angry that outgoing chairman Derrick Brown has now been offered a part-time administrative position at the Methil club, despite calling for him to be removed completely during several demonstrations at home games last season.
New vice-chairman Sid Collumbine has already publicly urged fans to return to the ground to give their backing to the players ahead of their bid for promotion to division two.
However, at a fans’ meeting at the Wellesley Inn in Methil on Thursday, around 30 supporters agreed that they would not return to the stadium until Mr Brown cuts all ties with the club—instead choosing to view the action from a mound outside the stadium.
Former director Dave Marshall, who has been at the forefront of calls for a complete change at New Bayview, said those in attendance “unanimously agreed that the protests would continue unabated” until Mr Brown stepped down completely.
Stressing that Mr Brown’s appointment as treasurer/secretary had done nothing to “diminish the determination” of the protesters, Mr Marshall said, “In fact, it has only increased the volume of protest.
“The mature and realistic manner in which the protesters have carried out their campaign was again evident in their approach to seeking a solution to the apparent problems being encountered to his removal by new chairman Willie Gray and Sid Collumbine.
“A meeting is requested as soon as possible in order to begin the rebuilding of our club.
“If, at this meeting, the new regime could give certain assurances as to a time scale for Derrick’s final departure then a return to supporting the team inside the stadium could become a distinct possibility.”
Mr Marshall said he had received other calls of support from other fans who could not make it to Thursday’s meeting and maintained that honesty had to be a “basic requirement” if relations between fans and the new look board were to improve.
“We have been asked to trust the new board but this has to be a two-way process,” he added.
“Manager Dave Baikie and his team are about to set out to improve our image on the playing field.
“It is therefore imperative that the board and supporters are there to assist them in every way possible.”
East Fife welcome title favourites Stenhousemuir to Methil this afternoon.
FANS' PROTESTS CONTINUE
From the East Fife Mail
ANGRY fans have been urged to put their trust in East Fife's new board, despite former chairman Derrick Brown being given a three-year contract as paid secretary of the club.
Protesting supporters had already expressed dismay that Mr Brown had not severed ties with the club and this latest news has further incensed them. But vice-chairman Sid Collumbine insists the move is in the best interests of the club.
He explained: "If we just change everything for the sake of it then it would be no good for the club.
"We need some continuity and only make changes when we see fit.
"Mr Brown is the one who has been running things. He will now be running things but only under the control of the board.
"I don't want to see the club suddenly disorganised and we need to do things in stages."
Despite the three-year contract, Mr Collumbine insists there is no guarantee Mr Brown will remain at East Fife that length of time. He said: "He could go if he isn't doing the job to our satisfaction or he could decide to leave himself."
It also appears a deal was struck with Mr Brown to avoid a protracted take-over bid. Mr Collumbine explained: "There are other reasons why we had to do things this way but I won't go into details.
"But we wanted to avoid having an extraordinary general meeting which could have taken months and months. At least now we are on the inside."
ANGRY fans have been urged to put their trust in East Fife's new board, despite former chairman Derrick Brown being given a three-year contract as paid secretary of the club.
Protesting supporters had already expressed dismay that Mr Brown had not severed ties with the club and this latest news has further incensed them. But vice-chairman Sid Collumbine insists the move is in the best interests of the club.
He explained: "If we just change everything for the sake of it then it would be no good for the club.
"We need some continuity and only make changes when we see fit.
"Mr Brown is the one who has been running things. He will now be running things but only under the control of the board.
"I don't want to see the club suddenly disorganised and we need to do things in stages."
Despite the three-year contract, Mr Collumbine insists there is no guarantee Mr Brown will remain at East Fife that length of time. He said: "He could go if he isn't doing the job to our satisfaction or he could decide to leave himself."
It also appears a deal was struck with Mr Brown to avoid a protracted take-over bid. Mr Collumbine explained: "There are other reasons why we had to do things this way but I won't go into details.
"But we wanted to avoid having an extraordinary general meeting which could have taken months and months. At least now we are on the inside."
