Chesterfield FC takeover: Ashley Carson and community trust's Mike Goodwin provide update

Chesterfield FC Community Trust entered into a period of exclusivity with Spireites owner Dave Allen at the end of December but then announced last week that it had “suffered a setback” regarding funding.

As a result the exclusivity period was removed, allowing Mr Allen to speak to any interested parties again.

The trust added that it was still committed to buying the club and said that a takeover could still be completed by the middle of March.

Before the trust a local fans’ consortium had been the frontrunner, but, according to Mr Allen, “struggled to make progress.”

Providing an update today, Mr Carson, Chesterfield FC company secretary, said: “Nothing has progressed on (takeover) talks with any interested parties.

“(I am) currently in talks with four (interested parties), if you include the community trust and fans' consortium.

“The current uncertainty is very damaging for the business.

“One member of staff had handed in his notice this week and quoted the uncertainty the reason why he has been looking for another job as he wants job security and is extremely worried about this with no firm deal with any potential new owner on the horizon.”

Mr Carson added: “Meanwhile, January has been an extremely quiet month with only two home games and one of those right at the end of the month. Cash flow as predicted was very poor. Therefore Dave Allen has had to inject over £200,000 into the club during January.”

While Mike Goodwin, chairman of the community trust, told us today: “We have been working on putting together a business plan, based on thorough research and careful planning so that we have a solid platform to build.

“We remain committed to ensuring a positive outcome for both the club and the trust and we will provide an update on progress at the appropriate time.”