brianss
Joined: November 2014
Posts: 17 
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Post by brianss on Mar 5, 2016 9:37:04 GMT
A very good morning Gasheads!
Having read some of the comments on this Forum, I thought it only right to update you on where Ken and I are as Fans Directors now and perhaps how our roles may change under new ownership.
I will be honest and say that the last few years, after a promising start four years ago, became harder and harder. As you will be aware the previous regime held what they called "equity directors meetings." As time went on, it became clear that board meetings were starting to play second fiddle to the main decision making. It was becoming clear also I was learning more about what was happening at the club through Forums such as this than I did at Board meetings, even though I was accused of believing what I read on the forums. It seems at times some of the comments made, particularly from the Fans Forum for example, were often and are 'spot on' and I appreciate that this really is from my point of view not an acceptable position to be in from a representational point of view.
Although no formal board meeting is yet to be held, I am delighted the AGM is still taking place and I have no doubts that a board meeting will happen very soon once all the players are in place. Nevertheless I and Ken have had conversations with several key directors about things that we believe need to be addressed and I am extremely hopeful that this really is the dawn of a new era. The comments I have made include all pricing, facilities particularly for our disabled and female supporters, catering to name but a few. I have been greatly encouraged by the feedback I have had, and both Ken and I will continue to work on your behalf to do our utmost to meet your expectations. Once the first board meeting has taken place I hope I can come back and provide regular updates. Of course, like you, I am also interested to learn what will be happening about the new stadium plans. I sincerely believe that this is essential if Bristol Rovers FC are to reach their full potential.
As always, I am open to suggestions on my email br467@btinternet.com. I regularly speak to supporters in regard to issues on a one-to-one, either by phone or twitter or on matchday.
I hope this clarifies your concerns and I am sure, as the early evidence suggests, the club is now moving forward in a very positive direction.
For everyone travelling to Notts County today, I hope to see you there and three points to take home!
May I thank you for your comments, positive or otherwise. I do read and I do take on board.
UTG!
Yours in friendship
Brian SS
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Peter Parker
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Richard Walker
You have been sentenced to DELETION!
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Post by Peter Parker on Mar 5, 2016 9:55:59 GMT
A genuine question
Why did you never 'stand up' and tell the fans you represent that you and Ken were being cut out?
I dont want to start a massive argument here amongst posters and looking back too much as it is about moving forward and getting on with a new hopefully brighter future.
Such revelations although hardly a suprise just reaffirmed how some of us had thought the positions had become worthless.
Thanks for posting and I hope you and any successors receive more attention than before
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brianss
Joined: November 2014
Posts: 17
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Post by brianss on Mar 5, 2016 10:08:28 GMT
I wouldn't use the phrase worthless, more like extremely difficult. It was becoming increasingly obvious that a change was taking place, an open battle would not have helped in my opinion and, as is the case, the hope was with new owners coming in, they would be easier to work with. I am extremely confident about the future!
Best wishes
Brian
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Post by tanksfull on Mar 5, 2016 10:10:07 GMT
A very good morning Gasheads! Having read some of the comments on this Forum, I thought it only right to update you on where Ken and I are as Fans Directors now and perhaps how our roles may change under new ownership. I will be honest and say that the last few years, after a promising start four years ago, became harder and harder. As you will be aware the previous regime held what they called "equity directors meetings." As time went on, it became clear that board meetings were starting to play second fiddle to the main decision making. It was becoming clear also I was learning more about what was happening at the club through Forums such as this than I did at Board meetings, even though I was accused of believing what I read on the forums. It seems at times some of the comments made, particularly from the Fans Forum for example, were often and are 'spot on' and I appreciate that this really is from my point of view not an acceptable position to be in from a representational point of view. Although no formal board meeting is yet to be held, I am delighted the AGM is still taking place and I have no doubts that a board meeting will happen very soon once all the players are in place. Nevertheless I and Ken have had conversations with several key directors about things that we believe need to be addressed and I am extremely hopeful that this really is the dawn of a new era. The comments I have made include all pricing, facilities particularly for our disabled and female supporters, catering to name but a few. I have been greatly encouraged by the feedback I have had, and both Ken and I will continue to work on your behalf to do our utmost to meet your expectations. Once the first board meeting has taken place I hope I can come back and provide regular updates. Of course, like you, I am also interested to learn what will be happening about the new stadium plans. I sincerely believe that this is essential if Bristol Rovers FC are to reach their full potential. As always, I am open to suggestions on my email br467@btinternet.com. I regularly speak to supporters in regard to issues on a one-to-one, either by phone or twitter or on matchday. I hope this clarifies your concerns and I am sure, as the early evidence suggests, the club is now moving forward in a very positive direction. For everyone travelling to Notts County today, I hope to see you there and three points to take home! May I thank you for your comments, positive or otherwise. I do read and I do take on board. UTG! Yours in friendship Brian SS Thank you Brian. _________________________________ Here's to the future. |
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Peter Parker
Global Moderator
Richard Walker
You have been sentenced to DELETION!
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Post by Peter Parker on Mar 5, 2016 10:12:35 GMT
Thanks for the reply. I dont want to.drag up all the arguments that could be had, as it is about moving forward, but if we are to i thought it right to ask the question.
UTG
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Deleted
Joined: January 1970
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Mar 5, 2016 10:30:32 GMT
Cheers Brian, that's a very honest assessment of what I'm sure was a difficult situation.
Hopefully, the new regime will be more accommodating of the fan's representatives. Otherwise what's the point?
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Deleted
Joined: January 1970
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Mar 5, 2016 10:35:21 GMT
Brian, Thank you for your honest summery of events. Let's hope that in this new era for Rovers that you and Ken will be able to communicate more often with the fans not just via the SC page but by all forms of communication available. Once again thank you for taking the time out and posting on here.
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Post by a more piratey game on Mar 5, 2016 10:51:58 GMT
Morning Brian,
Thanks for that. With no direct knowledge or exposure, I always had an open mind as to whether there was a 'rift between board and fans' etc, as many on here have attested for a long time.
Your post seems to confirm that such a rift did exist, and my sense is that it goes back a very long time. As a result, I would ask that you ponder on the root cause of that, and maybe help the new regime understand its history in order that any mistakes aren't repeated or sores re-opened.
I think that we share the feeling of seeing a bright new dawn at present, and long may it continue.
Ta!
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eppinggas
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Ian Alexander
Don't care
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Posts: 8,165
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Post by eppinggas on Mar 5, 2016 10:52:34 GMT
Great post and thank you Brian SS. I hope to hear more like this in the future. As you say "this really is the dawn of a new era". UTG! Yasil Alghaz!
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dinsdale
Andy Rammell
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 495
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Post by dinsdale on Mar 5, 2016 11:05:45 GMT
A very good morning Gasheads! Having read some of the comments on this Forum, I thought it only right to update you on where Ken and I are as Fans Directors now and perhaps how our roles may change under new ownership. I will be honest and say that the last few years, after a promising start four years ago, became harder and harder. As you will be aware the previous regime held what they called "equity directors meetings." As time went on, it became clear that board meetings were starting to play second fiddle to the main decision making. It was becoming clear also I was learning more about what was happening at the club through Forums such as this than I did at Board meetings, even though I was accused of believing what I read on the forums. It seems at times some of the comments made, particularly from the Fans Forum for example, were often and are 'spot on' and I appreciate that this really is from my point of view not an acceptable position to be in from a representational point of view. Although no formal board meeting is yet to be held, I am delighted the AGM is still taking place and I have no doubts that a board meeting will happen very soon once all the players are in place. Nevertheless I and Ken have had conversations with several key directors about things that we believe need to be addressed and I am extremely hopeful that this really is the dawn of a new era. The comments I have made include all pricing, facilities particularly for our disabled and female supporters, catering to name but a few. I have been greatly encouraged by the feedback I have had, and both Ken and I will continue to work on your behalf to do our utmost to meet your expectations. Once the first board meeting has taken place I hope I can come back and provide regular updates. Of course, like you, I am also interested to learn what will be happening about the new stadium plans. I sincerely believe that this is essential if Bristol Rovers FC are to reach their full potential. As always, I am open to suggestions on my email br467@btinternet.com. I regularly speak to supporters in regard to issues on a one-to-one, either by phone or twitter or on matchday. I hope this clarifies your concerns and I am sure, as the early evidence suggests, the club is now moving forward in a very positive direction. For everyone travelling to Notts County today, I hope to see you there and three points to take home! May I thank you for your comments, positive or otherwise. I do read and I do take on board. UTG! Yours in friendship Brian SS Brian you, Ken and BRSC should have spoken out a long time ago , easy to do now they have left. This has left a bit of a sour taste for me. |
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Igitur
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 2,294
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Post by Igitur on Mar 5, 2016 11:19:26 GMT
With you on this Dinsdale, while I can understand nothing could be said during the move towards the takeover, before BSS, Ken and BRSC have hardly spoken up for the fans.
I get so cross when retired generals only speak up for the soldiers or against cuts when they have retired.
Still if new times are ahead then we should welcome the changes.
(If the fans' directors were on the board because of the fans' share scheme, then surely they were equity directors.)
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Post by a more piratey game on Mar 5, 2016 11:23:43 GMT
I get so cross when retired generals only speak up for the soldiers or against cuts when they have retired. but that's the job isn't it - when serving they are inside the tent pissing out, when retired outside the tent pissing in
if you're inside the tent and piss inside, then you very swiftly get moved outside. Everyone knows that?
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Post by Henbury Gas on Mar 5, 2016 11:24:02 GMT
A very good morning Gasheads! Having read some of the comments on this Forum, I thought it only right to update you on where Ken and I are as Fans Directors now and perhaps how our roles may change under new ownership. I will be honest and say that the last few years, after a promising start four years ago, became harder and harder. As you will be aware the previous regime held what they called "equity directors meetings." As time went on, it became clear that board meetings were starting to play second fiddle to the main decision making. It was becoming clear also I was learning more about what was happening at the club through Forums such as this than I did at Board meetings, even though I was accused of believing what I read on the forums. It seems at times some of the comments made, particularly from the Fans Forum for example, were often and are 'spot on' and I appreciate that this really is from my point of view not an acceptable position to be in from a representational point of view. Although no formal board meeting is yet to be held, I am delighted the AGM is still taking place and I have no doubts that a board meeting will happen very soon once all the players are in place. Nevertheless I and Ken have had conversations with several key directors about things that we believe need to be addressed and I am extremely hopeful that this really is the dawn of a new era. The comments I have made include all pricing, facilities particularly for our disabled and female supporters, catering to name but a few. I have been greatly encouraged by the feedback I have had, and both Ken and I will continue to work on your behalf to do our utmost to meet your expectations. Once the first board meeting has taken place I hope I can come back and provide regular updates. Of course, like you, I am also interested to learn what will be happening about the new stadium plans. I sincerely believe that this is essential if Bristol Rovers FC are to reach their full potential. As always, I am open to suggestions on my email br467@btinternet.com. I regularly speak to supporters in regard to issues on a one-to-one, either by phone or twitter or on matchday. I hope this clarifies your concerns and I am sure, as the early evidence suggests, the club is now moving forward in a very positive direction. For everyone travelling to Notts County today, I hope to see you there and three points to take home! May I thank you for your comments, positive or otherwise. I do read and I do take on board. UTG! Yours in friendship Brian SS Brian you, Ken and BRSC should have spoken out a long time ago , easy to do now they have left. This has left a bit of a sour taste for me. Move on, nothing gained by moaning about the past |
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dinsdale
Andy Rammell
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 495
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Post by dinsdale on Mar 5, 2016 11:26:00 GMT
With you on this Dinsdale, while I can understand nothing could be said during the move towards the takeover, before BSS, Ken and BRSC have hardly spoken up for the fans. I get so cross when retired generals only speak up for the soldiers or against cuts when they have retired. Still if new times are ahead then we should welcome the changes. (If the fans' directors were on the board because of the fans' share scheme, then surely they were equity directors.) Kim Stukey had the right approach in similar circumstances. I think BRSC should just sell the shares back to the club and let the board appt a fans rep or club ambassader. No point in mute fans reps |
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Post by manchestergas on Mar 5, 2016 11:35:01 GMT
Brian you, Ken and BRSC should have spoken out a long time ago , easy to do now they have left. This has left a bit of a sour taste for me. Move on, nothing gained by moaning about the past Those who forget history repeat it. The first few weeks of the new regime appears to show a very competent board open to fans and very very different to the shambles that went before it. Also remembering all the apologists attacking fans who dared to criticise the old regime, as not true fans. However although one should not constantly rake over old arguments, it is fairly obvious from Brian's comments, which should be welcomed, the old structure and interaction with the Share Scheme Directors didn't work. The new board and indeed the SC should make sure that doesn't happen again. I invested in the scheme with many others. |
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Post by tanksfull on Mar 5, 2016 11:36:57 GMT
With you on this Dinsdale, while I can understand nothing could be said during the move towards the takeover, before BSS, Ken and BRSC have hardly spoken up for the fans. I get so cross when retired generals only speak up for the soldiers or against cuts when they have retired. Still if new times are ahead then we should welcome the changes. (If the fans' directors were on the board because of the fans' share scheme, then surely they were equity directors.) Kim Stukey had the right approach in similar circumstances. I think BRSC should just sell the shares back to the club and let the board appt a fans rep or club ambassader. No point in mute fans reps Dinsdale I agree 100% and as a minimum both, in my opinion, should have resigned when Kevin was not allowed to go to Roger's wake. I knew none of the parties concerned but that for me was outrageous. However as I have indicated above I have drawn a line and moved on. The future is very bright and I have no intention of letting the past get in the way. We have what we have. |
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Post by tanksfull on Mar 5, 2016 11:39:06 GMT
Brian you, Ken and BRSC should have spoken out a long time ago , easy to do now they have left. This has left a bit of a sour taste for me. Move on, nothing gained by moaning about the past Move on yes, but never forget otherwise you do not learn. |
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Deleted
Joined: January 1970
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Mar 5, 2016 12:00:02 GMT
PP put it well.
I welcome the admission that things were not as they should have been. Like Igitur, it has to be said that you are equity Directors - representing considerably more equity than some others. That was the point, and one recognised by Kim Stuckey. Really this should have been said when, not after, it was relevant.
Nevertheless, it wasn't, it's gone, and the most important thing now is establishing a more respectful and involved relationship with your new fellow Directors. Good luck. Please let us know how it goes.
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Post by a more piratey game on Mar 5, 2016 12:00:03 GMT
With you on this Dinsdale, while I can understand nothing could be said during the move towards the takeover, before BSS, Ken and BRSC have hardly spoken up for the fans. I get so cross when retired generals only speak up for the soldiers or against cuts when they have retired. Still if new times are ahead then we should welcome the changes. (If the fans' directors were on the board because of the fans' share scheme, then surely they were equity directors.) Kim Stukey had the right approach in similar circumstances. I think BRSC should just sell the shares back to the club and let the board appt a fans rep or club ambassader. No point in mute fans reps it has only just dawned on me that the purchase of 92% of the club (leaving 8% to supporters) is probably as much a statement of intent as the most expedient was to complete the transaction |
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Deleted
Joined: January 1970
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Mar 5, 2016 12:10:43 GMT
Time to move on? Yes it is.
Time to forgive people for spiteful and vindictive actions? Never. Edit: (unless they grew some and actually apologised)
Good luck working with the new regime Brian and well done for coming out after all this time. Let's hope the openness continues as the fans deserve far more for their £1m+.
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