DARLINGTON supporters are soon to be asked if they would welcome private investment in the fan-owned club.

Representatives of the club, including the Darlington FC Supporters Group (DFCSG) who hold a majority shareholding in Quakers, have recently met with an investor interested in taking a stake in the club.

A statement released late on Tuesday issued by the boards of Darlington FC and the DFCSG read: “We’d like to take this opportunity to update all Darlington FC 1883 Ltd shareholders and Darlington FC Supporters Group members of the current progress made in relation to the potential investor with whom we met last week.

“Initial high level aspirations were discussed as well as outline requirements of both parties; we must stress that these discussions are at a very early stage.

“We are acutely aware of the time frames which have been discussed in the media by our manager Martin Gray and are fully committed to moving as quickly as possible, as drawing the process out will be of benefit to no-one, however we must do so whilst following the rules and processes designed to safeguard the future of the football club.”

Since a fortnight ago when manager Martin Gray first announced he had been speaking two potential investors, opinion among supporters on the subject has been split.

The statement continued: “It is our intention to announce a proposal in the coming week which will allow both Darlington FC 1883 Ltd shareholders and Darlington FC Supporters Group members to indicate whether they believe the proposals of external investment should be advanced whilst also hopefully ensuring that the club does not stagnate until such a time that a detailed proposal can be submitted which is likely to take a number of months.”

Meanwhile, in the first legs of National League North play-offs last night, Salford City drew 1-1 at home to FC Halifax Town, while Kidderminster won 1-0 at Chorley.

Chorley are involved due to Quakers being ineligible.

The second legs take place on Sunday (3pm).