Just Giving 'Save The Camrose' Fund Update

I would like to comment on both BTCFC's progress and Save the Camrose.

Running a foootball club is truly demanding in any circumstances. Credit should go to the volunteer BTCFC board and to Dan Brownlie and his management team for the remarkable progress on and off the pitch that has been achieved in such a short time. Against a backdrop of eviction from the Camrose and loss of major financial resources the turnaround is uplifting. It is also attributable to the constant and continued backing of fans.

As the board will be acutely aware, significant challenges remain. Winklebury for its benefits and good attendances cannot currently ( if ever ?) accommodate higher step football - not many people know that. And it will be a major ongoing financial challenge to sustain and grow a club that a prosperous town the size of Basingstoke deserves.

A strategic aim of Saving the Camrose alongside running current football is essential. I note and commend the vital work being done to defend the Camrose as an Asset of Community Value. I too recognise timely further activity is necessary to counter Basron’s appeal against refusal of planning permission. Personally, I believe it a strategic and tactical error not to be maintaining a high profile public campaign (national and local) to Save the Camrose. This could generate the support of key influencers , decision makers , potential financial backers , whilst strengthening council resolve and keeping the matter in public consciousness. And of course it would helping the very large fund raising needed .A true and compelling telling of the loss of the Camrose is a scandal that would command widespread public support and condemnation .

I hope the club will kick start a high profile and energetic Save the Camrose campaign in the New Year. If not I fear that the long term future of the club could be compromised.

Steve Williams