THE fans’ company running the Quakers has reported a surge in investments following the announcement of member benefits.

Darlington FC 1883 (DFC 1883) revealed last night that about 50 investors had come forward in 24 hours to put money into its community interest company (CIC).

The CIC now has more than 210 members, with the total investment in the club standing at about £85,000.

The increased uptake came after DFC 1883 received the backing of Quakers legend David Hodgson and a range of investors’ benefits were announced.

The benefits include: 􀁥 The opportunity to elect the board to run the CIC and a vote on matters relating to Darlington FC; 􀁥 The opportunity to attend exclusive CIC events and forums with the 1883 board, players and management team; 􀁥 A regular newsletter and priority booking for match tickets and events; 􀁥 A £5 voucher for use at the club shop; 􀁥 A personalised and numbered membership certificate.

Craig McKenna, DFC 1883 project manager, said: “The combination of support from David Hodgson and the publication of the benefits to CIC members has seen a big uptake in the CIC membership in the last 24 hours.

“We are hopeful that this momentum can be maintained and drive us on to achieve what we need to achieve.”

Mr McKenna said recent investments had varied from the minimum of £100 to one of £800.

The updated figures were revealed yesterday as the club announced plans for an investors’ panel, which will be open to anyone who has invested either through the CIC or by other means.

The panel will remain in place until the DFC 1883 annual meeting when fans will be appointed to the board, although panel members would not automatically become board members.

DFC 1883 chairman Denis Pinnegar will attend the weekly panel meetings.

Mr Pinnegar said their aim would be to bring the panel up to speed and take on board their opinions.

He added: “Due to the time available before the AGM, there isn’t scope to appoint further directors to the board so we feel the introduction of this panel is invaluable.”

To invest in the CIC, visit 1883cic.org.

Any questions?

MEMBERS of the CIC are being invited to a question and answer session with Quakers manager Martin Gray next week.

The event will be held at Blackwell Grange, Darlington, from 6pm on Wednesday.

An open day for all fans at Bishop Auckland’s Heritage Park ground has also been planned for June 23.

The gates will open from 10am to 4pm, with food and refreshments available from noon.

Martin Gray, several players and board members are scheduled to attend the event.

Club merchandise will be on sale and there will be facilities to accept new CIC memberships. Fans will also be able to put down deposits for season tickets.

DFC 1883 confirmed yesterday that it had written to all those who invested in the previous shares scheme by paying cash at the Dolphin Centre.

Fewer than half have responded so far and further letters are being sent out.

Anyone who has not received a letter should call 01325-354494 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

In a further development, DFC 1883 confirmed yesterday that it will be providing coach transport from Darlington town centre to Bishop Auckland and back for all home games.