Shrimpers Trust urge Ron Martin to agree 'new' takeover deal
They say the drawn out takeover process is like 'mental torture' for fans
The Shrimpers Trust, Southend United's leading fan group, has issued a critical call for action regarding the long-delayed takeover of the football club, urging the current owners, the Martin family, to accept the offer from COSU (Consortium of Southend United) and provide necessary security by next Friday. This comes after a series of meetings and discussions involving the Trust, Southend Fan Protest Group, Shrimper Zone, the Southend-on-Sea City Council, and COSU.
Following a crucial update from Southend-on-Sea City Council on May 30, 2024, the Shrimpers Trust has maintained close communication with key stakeholders to expedite the takeover process. On Monday, representatives from the Trust, alongside Southend Fan Protest Group and Shrimper Zone, engaged in constructive dialogues with Council Leader Daniel Cowan and Justin Rees, head of COSU, the consortium actively seeking to acquire the club.
"We believe the proposed new deal is viable and more likely to progress through the planning stage," stated the Shrimpers Trust. "As a result, we urge the Martin family to accept COSU's offer and provide the requested security by the end of next week to ensure the consortium can continue funding the club."
The Trust acknowledged the frustrations expressed by COSU regarding the slow pace of progress but praised their patience and investment in keeping the club afloat during the uncertain period.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the impending Winding Up Petition hearing on June 26, brought by Stewarts Law LLP against the football club. Many supporters are anxious about the pace of the deal and some are considering protests to expedite the process. However, the Trust advises against immediate protests, deeming it counterproductive at this stage. "It is appropriate for parties to be given the space to manufacture a resolution during the next seven days," the Trust stated. "If the Martin family cannot justify rejecting the deal by then, we will support direct action."
"Our silence in the past fortnight should not be mistaken for inaction," the Trust emphasized. They warned of the severe consequences if a deal is not reached by next Friday, highlighting the possibility of COSU withdrawing their offer. "We are planning for every eventuality to ensure the football club's survival."
The Shrimpers Trust also offered support to fans struggling with the ongoing uncertainty and mental toll of the situation, encouraging them to seek help from listed organizations.
Greatest Hits Radio have approached Ron Martin for a comment.