Suporters Direct to drive Darlington FC's conversion to community club (From The Northern Echo)

Suporters Direct to drive Darlington FC's conversion to community club

7:51pm Friday 3rd February 2012 in Darlington FC News By Andrew Douglas, Deputy News Editor

A MEETING of Darlington Football Club Rescue Group (DFCRG) has confirmed the concept of a community-based club is the best way forward for the Quakers.

It was agreed that the initiative will be pursued by Supporters' Direct, an independent national body whose aim is to promote sustainable sports clubs based on fans' involvement and community ownership.

A statement released tonight by DFCRG said: "All of the various parties who have been working towards the salvation of Darlington FC are delighted that their own shared objectives will now be amalgamated under the single umbrella of this recognised national organisation which is throwing the full weight of its experience behind the campaign."

The Northern Echo reported on Thursday that it was understood talks had taken placed with Supporters Direct, which has worked with fans to set up more than 160 Supporters Trusts since 2000.

Members of the DFCRG met to discuss their next step on Thursday night after they were given time to form a community organisation to run the club on a not-for-profit basis by administrator Harvey Madden.

The move came after potential buyer Paul Wildes walked away following a breakdown in talks with former chairman Raj Singh.

However, DFCRG has said that it has the backing of Mr Singh, who is the club's main creditor after investing about £3m.