Shops urged to buy shares in Darlington FC

Running Total: £294,150

SHOPS are being urged to show their support for the Quakers by buying shares in the company formed to save the football club.

The Shares for Shops initiative has been launched by Darlington FC 1883.

In return for buying shares in the community company, shops in Darlington and surrounding towns and villages will receive a poster to display in their window.

They will also be included in a roll of honour in The Northern Echo.

Although sales of shares have slowed in recent days, board members are confident a new focus on business investors will help the company hit the target.

One of the first businesses to invest was Your Move Scott-Collier Taylor estate agents in Duke Street, Darlington.

Director Ian Taylor has been a Quakers supporter for 43 years and a season ticket holder for the past 15 years.

He said: “Darlington FC puts the town on the map and as a supporter and a business I cannot think of the town without this asset.

“By being involved with the club my business benefits through networking and developing contacts. It’s one way of getting my name out and about while helping another local businesses and the community.

“By even buying just one share in the club at £100, this investment helps to secure this national link to the town.”

Bengal Merchant Restaurant, in Barnard Castle, has also bought a share.

Owner Rejaur Choudhury said: “We’re from Darlington and we wanted to support the club.

“We feel businesses – as well as fans – should help out.”

Peter Ashmore, interim director of Darlington FC 1883, said fans were grateful for the two companies’ backing.

He said: “We hope that their support will encourage other commercial and retail businesses to join in the Shares for Shops scheme – leading to a thriving Darlington Football Club which can only benefit the business community as a whole.”

In a separate development, there are plans for an open evening where fans can talk to Darlington FC 1883 directors about the progress being made to buy the club.

There will also be an opportunity to buy shares and volunteer to help the campaign.

The event will be held at the Arts Centre, in Vane Terrace, Darlington, from 8pm on Monday.

Shares will be on sale again today for cash and cheques in the Dolphin Centre, Darlington, from 11am to 4pm.

Investors must take along two forms of identity, including one form of photo ID.