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Up The Shakers is proud to announce that, thanks entirely to the generosity of our forum members, we have raised enough money to become the front-of-shirt sponsor of the Bury FC Under-21s home kit. The Up The Shakers name will now be worn proudly across the front of the famous white and blue shirt throughout the season, a fitting symbol of what can be achieved when Bury supporters come together to back their club. This is far more than a sponsorship deal or an opportunity to put our logo on a shirt. It is a direct investment in the future of Bury Football Club. Supporting the next generation The Under-21s provide an essential bridge between youth football and the senior game. It is at this stage that promising young players must adapt to a faster, stronger and more demanding level of football while continuing to develop their technical ability, confidence and understanding of the game. Without a strong development pathway, talented young players can easily be lost to the club. Supporting the Under-21s gives them the opportunity to train, compete, and demonstrate their ability to progress further. The money provided through sponsorship contributes to the practical costs of running and developing the team. This includes areas such as playing and training equipment, match balls, medical supplies, travel, facilities and wider support for young players who may otherwise find the financial demands of football difficult. Every contribution made by an Up The Shakers member has therefore helped create a better and more stable environment in which these players can develop. Building a pathway to the first team For a club like Bury, developing our own players should be a central part of the long-term strategy. A successful Under-21 setup can provide the first team with players who already understand the club, its expectations and what it means to represent the town. It can also reduce the need to continually recruit from elsewhere and may eventually create valuable assets for the club. Not every Under-21 player will go on to become a first-team regular, but every player deserves the best possible opportunity to reach their potential. A properly supported development team gives the coaching staff more time and better resources to work with players, while giving those players a meaningful standard of competitive football. It also gives younger supporters players they can follow as they progress through the club—from the Under-21s and, hopefully, into the first-team squad. A forum that does more than talk Up The Shakers was created as a place for Bury supporters to discuss the club, share opinions and remain connected. However, our members have repeatedly shown that the forum can be much more than a place for conversation. When the opportunity arose to support the Under-21s, members responded. Some donated larger amounts, others contributed whatever they could afford, but every donation helped us reach the target. This sponsorship belongs to every member who contributed, shared the appeal or encouraged others to get involved. Seeing the Up The Shakers name on the front of a Bury FC shirt is something we can all be proud of. It represents the collective effort of supporters who care deeply about the club and want to play a positive role in rebuilding its future. What it means to the players For the young players wearing the shirt, the sponsorship also sends an important message: the supporters are watching, they care about their progress, and they want them to succeed. Pulling on a Bury FC shirt already carries responsibility. Wearing one backed directly by the club’s supporters adds another layer of meaning. It connects the players with the people in the stands and reminds them that the development team is an important part of the wider club. We hope the players wear the shirt with pride and recognise that an entire community of supporters is behind them. Thank you We would like to thank every Up The Shakers member who helped make this possible. Whether you donated, promoted the fundraiser or simply supported the idea, you played a part. We would also like to thank everyone involved with the Bury FC Under-21s—the coaches, volunteers, players and families who give their time and energy to help develop the next generation. This is what supporter involvement should look like: backing the club, strengthening its foundations and helping provide opportunities for young people to succeed. The logo may say Up The Shakers, but the message behind it is even more important: Bury supporters backing Bury players and investing in the future of Bury Football Club.

The Curious Case of the Missing Trophies – and the Fans Who Still Hold Them for “Safety” For us as Bury FC supporters, 27 August 2019 is a date that will forever be etched into our memory. On that night, the English Football League (EFL) convened, voted, and expelled our club from its ranks, ending 134 years of continuous membership and stripping one of England’s oldest football institutions of its league status. It was early evening when representatives from our supporters’ group Forever Bury arrived at Gigg Lane. Some of us came to comfort devastated fans who had gathered at the stadium, others to liaise with the media and keep those at home updated on last‑ditch negotiations with prospective buyers. For many of us, the atmosphere was one of disbelief – supporters dazed and broken, struggling to comprehend what was happening to our beloved club. Amid the chaos, one Forever Bury representative recalls taking a call from colleagues working behind the scenes on a potential rescue deal when they were quietly approached by a supporter, away from the crowds. Their concern wasn’t about the takeover talks, but something more tangible: our club’s history. This fan admitted they had already worked with members of staff to remove some of our club’s most precious items – including the recently won League Two Runners‑Up trophy – and had hidden them “in their loft for safety.” Their fear was that, with the club in financial freefall, historic memorabilia might be sold off, lost, or even destroyed. This was not an isolated act. Weeks earlier, another supporter had driven his work van to the Carrington training ground and filled it with our club’s possessions – framed photographs, posters, training equipment and other artefacts. They later told Forever Bury that these items were being kept in a lockup at their business premises, again, in an effort to “protect” them from being sold off to pay debts. In the months and years that followed Bury’s expulsion, our fanbase itself fractured. Some of us walked away, unable to bear the pain. Others poured their energy into the phoenix club, Bury AFC. Many remained in limbo, still yearning for the identity, history, and pride tied up in Bury FC. For all of us, the sense of loss and betrayal will never fully heal. Meanwhile, the fate of much of our club’s memorabilia – trophies, shirts, photographs, and other artefacts collected since its formation in 1885 – remains uncertain. While some items have been recovered, others are still believed to be in the hands of individuals who insist they are safeguarding them. Our club’s Heritage Committee has made repeated attempts to catalogue and reclaim assets on behalf of the community. The aim is to preserve them collectively, not privately – to ensure Bury’s legacy belongs to all of us, not a few individuals who believe they alone can decide the future of our history. Why write this article?Because the time has come to return the missing history that binds our club together. These items – the cups, the medals, the photographs, the shirts – are not possessions to be hoarded in lofts or hidden away in businesses. They are community assets, symbols of a shared past that belong to every one of us who has ever stood on the terraces at Gigg Lane. It is not for one individual to decide what happens to our history. That responsibility belongs collectively to us, the fans, and to representatives such as the Heritage Committee, whose role is to safeguard, support, and preserve the legacy of Bury FC for future generations. So this is an appeal, not an accusation. We urge those who hold these priceless pieces of our story – particularly the 2019 League Two Runners‑Up trophy, the last piece of silverware lifted before expulsion – to return them to their rightful home: our club and our community. Until they are returned, the story of Bury FC remains incomplete. And just as the fight to restore our club has always been a collective one, so too must be the task of restoring our history. A Way ForwardWe want to make clear that this is not about blame, but about reconciliation. If you currently hold items of our club’s history, we are more than willing to act as mediators and help ensure they are safely returned to the club. You can remain anonymous – your identity will not be disclosed. All we ask is that you take the step to give these pieces of history back to where they belong. If you are willing to return items, please reach out to us using the clicking this link: Contact Us or emailing us via enquiries@uptheshakers.co.uk. Together, we can restore these symbols of our heritage to their rightful place – for our club, our fans, and our community.

Cup matches carry their own kind of electricity, the anticipation, the noise, the sense that anything can happen. But long before the turnstiles click open and the floodlights hum into life, an enormous amount of work takes place across the club to make sure everything runs safely, smoothly and proudly in the Bury way. The First Steps: Safety, Planning and Permissions Once the draw is made, the countdown begins. With fewer than twelve days’ notice, the Club must estimate the likely crowd size, a number that dictates almost everything else. Larger crowds mean increased medical cover, more stewards, additional infrastructure and enhanced safety measures. At the same time, we begin securing all the relevant permissions required for hosting a high-attendance fixture. This includes revisiting our safety certificate conditions, updating operational plans and ensuring compliance with regulations that change depending on the level of opposition, including the return of the Sporting Events (Control of Alcohol etc.) Act 1985, which restricts alcohol consumption within sight of the pitch. Meetings, Meetings, Meetings: Cup matches bring more stakeholders to the table. In the space of a few days, we organise meetings with: Greater Manchester Police Bury Council Stadium Safety Officer and Stewarding Contractors NWAS Matchday Commander & Medical Provisions Hospitality Suppliers’ Media Team & Partners Volunteer Coordinators Ticketing and Press Officer BFC Leadership Team These sessions ensure every organisation understands the plan, the risks, the timings and the contingencies. And just when we think we’ve got it all lined up, the BBC calls. The BBC Arrives and the Plan Changes: Ten days before kick-off, we receive a request from the BBC to attend and broadcast. Fantastic news for the Club, but it means revising the entire operational plan. Kick-off times shift. Permissions must be re-applied for. Safety documents need updating. Stakeholders reconvene. Every department adjusts its workload to accommodate the change. One of the first questions was where the cameras would be positioned. Following a site visit, risk assessments were completed and seating plans for the South Stand were reviewed to ensure supporter safety and that sightlines of the pitch were not adversely affected. Cup matches don’t stand still. Neither do we. Preparing the Stadium: A Herculean Effort The stadium team and maintenance volunteers deserve enormous credit. Preparing Gigg Lane for a major cup tie is not simply about opening the gates and welcoming supporters through the turnstiles. Every area of the stadium must be reviewed, inspected and prepared to ensure it is safe, presentable and ready to host thousands of supporters, staff, media personnel and guests. Across the stadium, work included repairs, deep cleaning, reinstating signage and safety equipment, checking facilities, preparing hospitality areas and ensuring every part of the ground was match-ready. It was a huge effort and one that reflects the pride our staff and volunteers take in presenting Gigg Lane at its very best. As part of our contingency planning, the Manchester Road End (MRE) was also prepared in case attendances exceeded 5,000 spectators. Having not been used since last season, this involved additional repairs, cleaning and preparation work to ensure the area could be brought into operation if required. Elsewhere in the ground, blinds were measured, ordered and fitted in Starkies and the hospitality suites, ensuring every space was ready for guests, sponsors and broadcasters. Communication and Community: Cup matches affect more than just the stadium. We write to all our neighbours to inform them of revised arrangements, including parking, timings, road use and expected footfall. Our media team works flat out creating content to promote the game, while the programme team pulls together a souvenir edition and races it to the printers. While planning remains fluid, we work hard to balance transparency with accuracy. Our supporters always want more information, and often believe they know better, but we must ensure what we share is correct, safe and approved. Planning can remain fluid depending on outstanding decisions and the implementation of necessary safety measures. As a result, the Club is not always able to confirm arrangements until they have been fully assessed and approved. A special thank you to our supporters. Purchasing match tickets in advance helps us enormously, allowing us to plan more effectively and put the appropriate contingencies in place much earlier. For the Harrogate match, only around 4% of tickets were purchased at the turnstiles on the day, which made a significant difference operationally. We hope supporters will continue to buy in advance whenever possible, as it also helps create a smoother and quicker entry process on matchday. Football Operations: The Work You Don’t See Behind the scenes, the football staff adjust training plans, manage workloads and prepare for the opposition. Club secretaries organise registrations, complete official paperwork, liaise with the opposition and governing bodies and rearrange fixtures affected by the cup tie. Every now and then, they even manage to sneak a new signing through in time to surprise our supporters. Cup matches don’t just change one day, they change the whole week. Volunteers: The Heart of Matchday No matchday at Gigg Lane happens without our volunteers. Organising them is a major operation in itself, ensuring every role is covered, from turnstiles to hospitality, from ball retrieval to supporter assistance. Their commitment keeps our supporters safe, comfortable and welcome. The End of the Journey: While every supporter dreams of seeing a cup run continue a little longer, our FA Cup journey has now come to an end. Like everyone connected with the Club, we would have loved another draw, even an away day and another opportunity to showcase Bury FC on the national stage. The pride we all feel in this team was evident once again as 1,050 supporters travelled to Harrogate Town to back the Shakers in the replay. What this run has shown, however, is the tremendous progress being made both on and off the pitch. From our talented – passionate players and coaching team, staff, to our volunteers, supporters, sponsors and partners, everyone has played their part in creating special memories along the way. The atmosphere at Gigg Lane, the backing from the stands and the pride shown in representing our town once again demonstrated exactly what this football club means to so many people. Although the cup run is over, the momentum it has generated remains. Our attention now turns back to the League challenges ahead and the FA Trophy, carrying with us the belief, confidence and togetherness that these occasions help to create. All This… On Top of the Day Job. The Club runs seven days a week, from 9am until 10pm. A major cup tie does not replace the day job, it simply gets added on top. While supporters see ninety minutes on the pitch, our staff, volunteers and partners invest countless hours behind the scenes to make those ninety minutes possible. Cup runs are magical, but they are also the result of hundreds of hours of work from people who care deeply about this football club. From those preparing the stadium and planning operations, to the volunteers supporting on matchday and the fans filling the stands, everyone plays their part in making Gigg Lane the beating heart of our town. A Final Word.. This FA Cup campaign may have come to an end, but it has reminded us all of what can be achieved when a football club, a town and its supporters pull together. The memories created, the crowds attracted and the pride felt throughout the competition will stay with us long after the final whistle. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who played their part, whether that was preparing the stadium, planning operations, volunteering on matchday, supporting from the stands or following the journey from afar. This is what it takes. This is what we do. This is Bury. Up the Shakers! View the full article

It was a busy weekend for our loan and dual-registration players as the FA Trophy and FA Vase kicked off and league action continuing. Harvey Hampson was the hero for Atherton LR as they progressed in the FA Vase with a penalty shootout victory against Cammell Laird. With the scores locked at 2-2 at the end of 90 minutes, LR scored 3 of their penalties before Hampson secured their spot in the next round by saving Ben Wood’s spot kick. Elsewhere in the FA Vase, Oliver Hodgson notched his first goal of the season in Longridge’s 2-1 exit away at Boldon – with Liam Gould also making an appearance from the bench. Brad Sullivan kept his first clean sheet of the season as Wythenshawe Town progressed with a 3-0 win v Cheadle Heath Nomads. Three other players were on the wrong side of results as Daisy Hill (Gerry McCullion and Danny Fernandez) and Barnoldswick (Harrison Aubrey-Williams) were both eliminated from the competition. In the FA Trophy, Freddie Machell played 90 minutes for Clitheroe away at Pontefract with the home side scoring a 94th minute winner. Finally, in the North West Counties Premier Divison Charlie Cox’s Ramsbottom United travelled to FC Isle of Man but were on the wrong side of a 3-2 result. Check back every Monday for updates on all of our players out on loan and dual registration! Photo credit: PJ Photography View the full article

We are delighted to announce the signing of Anthony Dudley, our first signing of the summer. He returns to Gigg Lane having first come through the youth ranks at Bury FC, making his Football League debut for the club in January 2014 against Burton Albion. Now returning to the Shakers with over a decade of senior experience behind him, Dudley brings proven quality, versatility and attacking threat to the squad. During his first spell with Bury, Dudley gained valuable experience through loan spells with Guiseley AFC and Macclesfield Town, impressing with his pace and eye for goal in the National League. A move to Salford City followed in 2017, where he first linked up with manager Anthony Johnson, and helped the club secure the National League North title during the 2017/18 campaign. Dudley later enjoyed a successful spell with Chester FC, initially on loan before making the move permanent, going on to make more than 140 league appearances and scoring over 30 goals for the Seals. Most recently, Dudley has featured for Radcliffe, making 30 appearances in the 2024/25 season, continuing to demonstrate the experience and attacking quality that have made him a well-known figure across the non-league pyramid. Anthony will link up with his new teammates when pre-season begins later this summer. Welcome back to Gigg, Duds! View the full article

Thank you for your continued support of the club. Bury FC is a community, fan-owned football club competing in the Northern Premier League West. #BuryFC | #PartOfIt

Dom Telford - Prescot Cables (H) | Post-Match Interview | Bury FC

Bury Football Club is proud to announce that it has achieved the She Belongs Standard from Manchester FA, recognising the club’s commitment to creating female-friendly facilities and an environment that provides equal opportunities for women and girls. The achievement was celebrated at the club last week with the presentation of a She Belongs Standard plaque, with a number of women and girls from across Bury FC’s football community joining the celebration, presented by Georgie Oliver, Facilities & Investment Manager and Leigh Gell, Football Development Officer (Women & Girls) from Manchester FA. The She Belongs Standard focuses on ensuring that women and girls feel welcome, comfortable and able to access football facilities. As part of the standard, facilities are assessed against areas including clean and well-stocked toilets, accessible sanitary products, equal access for women and girls, clear signage and well-lit facilities, reflective imagery and a sense of belonging. For Bury FC, achieving the standard represents an important step in ensuring that women and girls feel that they have a place within the club and its facilities and follows on from the long-standing work the club has done with HerGameToo. The achievement also provides an opportunity to celebrate the wider work taking place across Bury FC to develop women’s and girls’ football. The club is committed to creating opportunities for women and girls to participate in football and to support the development of the game across the club. This includes providing opportunities across different age groups, developing coaches and volunteers, engaging with the local community and continuing to build a positive environment for players and their families. Bury FC also recognises the importance of making football accessible and welcoming beyond the pitch, with facilities, communication and the overall matchday and football experience playing an important role in helping women and girls feel that they belong. Casey Lynchey, Head of Operations at Bury FC, said: View the full article

It’s back on the road for The Shakers this Tuesday, making the 90 mile round trip to Guiseley AFC. Jonno’s men will be hoping to build on their unbeaten start, with a 1-0 win over Warrington Rylands last time out sending us up to 3rd in the Northern Premier League Premier Division North. Our opponents were held 2-2 by Workington in their last outing. Players to have represented both clubs include Gabriel Johnson and Anthony Dudley. In Opposition – Guiseley AFCGuiseley AFC were formed in 1909 in West Yorkshire, moving to their current home, Nethermoor Park, the same year. The club’s greatest day came in 1991, beating Gretna Rovers 3-1 in the FA Vase. Guiseley reached the National League in 2015, surviving for two seasons before being relegated in 2018. Admission & TicketsTickets are on sale and can be purchased from Guiseley’s website. You can also pay on the gate. Travel & ParkingAddress: Nethermoor Park, Otley Road, Guiseley, Leeds, LS20 8BT Parking: There is a large council carpark on Netherfield Road (LS20 9PY) which is a 2 minute walk across a railway bridge to the ground. Nethermoor Park is closely bordered by local residents and we aim to minimise disruptions where possible. Nearest Train Station: Nethermoor is about five minutes’ flat walk from Guiseley station. It is very well served on the Wharfedale Line by trains from Leeds, Bradford and Ilkley. Supporters Coach: Fans can still purchase tickets for our supporters coach, tickets are £28. Click here to purchase. Tickets will be on sale until 3pm on Monday, or until they are sold out. Match Coverage & Live StreamIf you are unable to make the game, we’ll have all the live coverage across our media platforms. Live Stream: For this game, we will have no live stream. Keep up-to-date with all our video content via the club’s YouTube Channel. Click to subscribe and never miss highlights and match reaction across the season. Audio Commentary: Roch Valley Radio will be providing commentary for this game. Click here ahead of kick-off to listen live. Audio commentary will be provided for every game of the season, so you will never miss a piece of the action. Social Media: Our team will also bring you in-depth text commentary via the club ‘MatchDay Live‘ Twitter feed, with team news and half time and full time updates available also on Facebook and feel like you are there with our match galleries and imagery available over on Instagram. Whatever the weather, wherever you are across the globe, we have you covered. Up the Shakers! #BuryFC | #bfc140 View the full article

The board of the Football Supporters’ Society of Bury would like to provide some context and clarification regarding the statement posted on the Bury Football Club website on 9 July 2026 and the club’s social media platforms on 13 July 2026, the supporter reaction to the statement having been duly noted. Bury FC is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and well‑managed environment for all supporters. Following guidance from national governing bodies and stadium safety specialists, the club is introducing an updated policy regarding junior attendance at matches at the Salford Van Hire Gigg Lane Stadium with effect from 21 July 2026. Across the professional game, safeguarding standards have been strengthened to reflect societal change. The EFL already requires all persons under the age of 16 to be accompanied by an adult and this summer the National League (Steps 1 and 2 of the non-league system) has introduced a compulsory policy requiring all persons under the age of 14 to be accompanied by an adult ahead of the commencement of the 2026-2027 season. Although Bury FC competes at Step 3 of the non-league system, we have been advised by various authorities, taken input from the Safety Advisory Group and our Ground Safety Officer to adopt the same approach as that now applicable to Steps 1 and 2. This recommendation is based on the size and density of our attendances, the average home attendance for the 2025-2026 season having exceeded that of every club competing in National League North, the scale and layout of the stadium and the need to maintain consistent safeguarding standards in line with national football policy. As most of you know, Bury FC is the exception to the rule when it comes to supporter numbers in non‑league football. Attendances being significantly higher than the average for Step 3 brings an increased responsibility to ensure that every supporter, and especially our youngest, is kept safe at all times. There can be no scope for ignorance or complacency where safety is concerned. It is of absolute paramount importance in our operation and should we progress to a higher level the policies relating to attendance of junior supporters will be formally imposed on us in any event. Taking the advice of the specialists now is the responsible and proactive approach. This is not something that we can simply ignore. The club and its directors have a legal responsibility to provide a safe environment for everyone who enters the stadium and implementing this policy will ensure that we continue to meet the highest standards of safeguarding and stadium safety. It is important to emphasise that this is the reason for introducing the policy. It is not a reaction to specific incidents of misconduct or the behaviour of our younger supporters generally. Having said this, and after considering supporter feedback, we do feel that we are able to draw a distinction between weekend afternoon fixtures and midweek evening fixtures. On that basis, all persons under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a responsible adult (over 18) when attending midweek evening fixtures with effect from the pre-season friendly against Wigan Athletic on 21 July 2026. However, in terms of weekend fixtures during the 2026-2027 season, we will continue with the current policy, which is, persons under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult (over 18). In terms of weekend afternoon fixtures, the position will be monitored during the 2026-2027 season and it should not be assumed that the same policy will remain for the 2027-2028 season and beyond. In fact, as alluded to above, should we achieve a third successive promotion, we will be required to comply with the National League policy in any event. To clarify, this policy is designed solely to protect children, support families and uphold the highest standards of stadium safety. We appreciate the co-operation of all supporters as we implement this important measure and continue to make the Salford Van Hire Gigg Lane Stadium a safe and enjoyable place for everyone. View the full article

Bury Football Club is delighted to announce a landmark new commercial partnership with Salford Van & Car Hire, who become the Club’s Official Stadium Naming Rights Principal Partner ahead of the 2026/27 season. The agreement represents one of the most significant commercial partnerships in the Club’s recent history and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both organisations as Bury FC continues its progression on and off the pitch. Founded with strong roots in Greater Manchester, Salford Van & Car Hire has grown into one of the region’s most trusted vehicle rental providers, serving businesses and individuals across the North West and beyond. Despite the company’s continued growth and success, the Bacci family has never forgotten its connection to Bury. Several members of the family grew up in the town, attended local schools and have maintained a strong affinity with the local community, making this partnership a natural fit. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to community, ambition and long-term growth, with both organisations looking forward to creating new opportunities for supporters, local businesses and the wider Bury community. Bury FC Head of Commercial & Media, Chris Watts, said: Gianluca Bacci-Evers of Salford Van & Car Hire added: Everyone at Bury Football Club would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Graziella Bacci, Gianluca Bacci-Evers, Alessandro Bacci, and everyone at Salford Van & Car Hire for their support and commitment. We look forward to welcoming them to the Bury FC family and embarking on an exciting new journey together as we prepare for the 2026/27 season. View the full article

Bury Football Club is delighted to announce a new commercial partnership with Howarth & Reed Electrical & Solar Ltd ahead of the 2026/27 season. The agreement sees the locally based electrical and renewable energy specialists join the growing family of businesses supporting the Shakers as the club continues to build momentum both on and off the pitch. Howarth & Reed Electrical & Solar Ltd has established an excellent reputation across the North West for delivering high-quality electrical installations, maintenance services and renewable energy solutions for domestic and commercial customers. Their commitment to professionalism, reliability and community values aligns closely with the vision and ambitions of Bury Football Club. The partnership marks an exciting new chapter for both organisations and reinforces the importance of local businesses supporting grassroots and community-focused football. Bury FC Head of Commercial & Media, Chris Watts, welcomed the partnership: “We’re delighted to welcome Howarth & Reed Electrical & Solar Ltd to Bury Football Club ahead of what promises to be another exciting season. As a club, we’re passionate about building strong relationships with businesses that share our values and commitment to the local community. “Connor and his team have built an outstanding reputation within their industry, and we’re proud to have their support as we continue our journey. Partnerships like this are vital to helping the club grow and achieve its long-term ambitions, and we look forward to working closely together throughout the 2026/27 campaign and beyond.” Connor Reed, Director at Howarth & Reed Electrical & Solar Ltd, added: “We are proud to become a local sponsor of Bury Football Club and to support a team that plays such an important role in our community. We look forward to being part of the club’s journey and wish everyone involved a successful season ahead.” Bury Football Club would like to thank Connor, Phillip, and everyone at Howarth & Reed Electrical & Solar Ltd for their support and warmly welcome them to the Shakers commercial network. For more information about commercial opportunities at Bury FC, please contact the club’s commercial team. View the full article

Bury Football Club is proud to announce that its England Football Accredited Star Rating has officially been upgraded to 3-Star status – a major recognition of the club’s phenomenal growth and ongoing commitment to football development across Bury and the surrounding areas. The upgrade from England Football highlights the incredible progress being made throughout the club and reflects the growing number of football opportunities now available to players, families, volunteers and supporters within the local community. England Football confirmed the upgrade with the message: “Being an England Football Accredited Club demonstrates that Bury FC provides a SAFE, FUN and INCLUSIVE environment for players within your community. Your Accredited Star Rating reflects the breadth of football opportunities on offer at your club, with more stars recognising a wider and more inclusive offering. To recognise the range of football at Bury FC, we are upgrading your Star Rating to 3-Star.” The 3-Star accreditation reflects: Increased grassroots participation across boys’, girls’, and mixed football A wider range of football opportunities within the local community Continued investment in player development and coaching standards A strong commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and player welfare The growth of volunteer involvement and community engagement The creation of a safe, fun and welcoming football environment for all The move to 3-Star status demonstrates that the club is now recognised nationally for offering an increasingly broad and inclusive football programme that supports participation at every level. As the club continues to grow both on and off the pitch, the accreditation serves as another important milestone in Bury Football Club’s long-term journey of rebuilding football pathways within the community and creating opportunities for future generations to thrive. This is not only a reflection of where the club is today – it is a statement of where the club is heading. The club continues to grow, inspire and lead the way for football in Bury. “This achievement represents far more than just a badge of accreditation. It is recognition of the enormous amount of hard work taking place behind the scenes to build a thriving football structure that is accessible, welcoming, inclusive and sustainable for future generations. From junior development and youth football through to inclusive participation opportunities and community-based programmes, the club has worked tirelessly to create pathways for players of all abilities to enjoy football in a positive environment. I see first hand, every single day, how hard everyone works behind the scenes to provide opportunities for players across our community. The commitment, passion and dedication shown by our coaches, volunteers, parents and staff is truly incredible and is the driving force behind everything we are building at Bury FC. To achieve this recognition when we have only been on this journey for such a relatively short period of time is quite simply outstanding. It shows just how far the club has come and reflects the phenomenal growth of our football provision and community development programme. This is something everyone connected with Bury FC should be immensely proud of and we remain fully committed to continuing that growth and creating even more opportunities for future generations.” Casey Lynchey, Head of Operations and Community. View the full article

We are delighted to announce that Bury FC Women Reserves have been awarded promotion to the North West Regional Women’s Football League Division One Central for the 2026/27 season. The promotion has been confirmed following a successful application through The FA’s promotion pool process, marking another significant milestone in the continued development of the club’s women’s pathway. The move sees the Reserves step up to Tier 6 of the women’s football pyramid and is recognition of the progress made both on and off the pitch. The promotion provides an exciting new challenge for the squad while strengthening the pathway for players progressing through Bury FC’s women’s programme. The club would like to place on record its thanks to the Women’s Reserves coaching team of Craig, Mitch and Tommy for their dedication, commitment and hard work throughout the season, which has helped the squad reach this significant milestone. Casey Lynchey, Head of Women’s Football, said: Everyone at Bury FC would like to congratulate the players, coaching staff and volunteers on this achievement and looks forward to seeing the team compete in the North West Regional Women’s Football League Division One Central during the 2026/27 campaign. View the full article

Bury FC are confirmed in the Northern Premier League Premier Division for 2026/27. We are joined among the promoted clubs by fellow West Division side Avro, while Redcar Athletic and Emley step up from the East Division. The Premier Division will also welcome back Alfreton Town and Curzon Ashton following relegation from National League North, with Quorn switching across laterally from the Southern League Central. The new-look division sets up an exciting campaign for Bury supporters, with a mix of historic non-league names, local rivalries and ambitious clubs standing between the Shakers and another push up the pyramid. The 22-team Northern Premier League Premier Division for 2026/27 will consist of: Alfreton Town, Ashton United, Avro, Bamber Bridge, Bury, Cleethorpes Town, Curzon Ashton, Emley, FC United, Gainsborough Trinity, Guiseley, Hyde United, Ilkeston Town, Lancaster City, Leek Town, Quorn, Redcar Athletic, Stockton Town, Warrington Rylands, Warrington Town, Whitby Town, Workington. Another big step forward for the Shakers as preparations begin for a new challenge at Step 3. We can’t wait to welcome supporters back to Gigg Lane for another huge season. View the full article

It’s not just the Men’s first team that lifted a trophy this season as our Women’s first team capped off their campaign by lifting the North West Women’s Regional League Plate on Sunday. Two first half goals from Ellie Cook and Ava Hanson saw Jason Jarrett’s team take a 2-0 lead into the break against FC St Helens at Chester’s Deva Stadium. Substitute Nia Wharton added a third midway through the second half before Cook put the icing on the cake in the 89th minute to seal the victory. It caps off a perfect campaign for the Shakers, which started with a walkover against Macclesfield, that saw them concede 0 goals on their way to victory. The run to the trophy included a 7-0 win against Winton Wanderers before dispatching Fleetwood Town 9-0. A 1-0 away win at Poulton saw them secure their spot in the final before the win against FC St Helens on Sunday. Speaking about the cup success manager Jason Jarrett said: “Winning the plate trophy has capped off a fantastic run of form! We feel like we have made huge progress these last few months and the determination and mindset of the players has been rewarded with a trophy for all their hard work. On Sunday, the girls gave me one of my proudest moments in football and I’m sure we will create more memorable moments in the future. I’d like to thank our staff and coaches, as well as the behind-the-scenes staff Kirsty, Lisa and Casey – who do amazing work for us that goes unseen but their work means we have a setup that many of the teams at our level and above are envious of. I’d also like to thank all the volunteers and fans who have supported us throughout the season. Lastly I’d like to thank my back room staff Mike, Joe and India who have been fantastic additions to our coaching team this season. Sunday was made even more memorable for me by sharing it with my right hand man Gary Pratt, we’ve been friends for over 30 years and his support and knowledge is priceless. We will now enjoy the off season but we are so excited to bring even more success to this amazing club!” View the full article

We can confirm that an international live stream will be available for our Northern Premier League West Division fixture away at Atherton Collieries. Supporters based outside the UK will be able to watch the game live, with coverage starting from approximately 2:45pm ahead of kick-off, with streaming access priced at £7.29 (including VAT and fees). Supporters who purchase the stream are advised to keep their digital receipt, as access to the match will be provided via links included within it. Please note that Season Ticket Holder discounts do not apply to overseas streams. Due to geo-locking restrictions, the stream cannot be accessed within the UK. We kindly ask supporters not to purchase if located in the UK, as refunds will not be available. We kindly ask supporters to remain patient in the event of any technical issues during the broadcast, as we have put additional infrastructure in place for this fixture to support a smooth and reliable stream. We would like to place on record our thanks to the committee at Atherton Collieries for their support and cooperation in facilitating this broadcast. We hope this coverage allows our supporters around the world to follow the action and feel part of the occasion. Tickets for the live stream can be purchased via our official ticketing provider from 5pm this evening. View the full article

2 of our girls teams have battled their way to the Manchester FA County Cup Finals, a tremendous success given our Junior section is only in our second season. We also have several of our Boy’s teams in the Finals and will putting these details out ASAP. We are so proud of the teams and coaches and their respective achievements. Supporters are welcome to attend the Cup Finals and our squads would love to see some of you there! The U18 Girls are up first with their Youth Cup Final on 23rd April, at Irlam FC with a 7pm kick off. Their opposition is Wythenshawe FC U18 Girls. They play in the Greater Manchester Women’s Football League U18 Championship and are currently top of a very competitive table. Exceptionally they will play in 3 Cup Finals this season having also won through to the finals of the U18s Division A Cup and the U18s Challenge Cup. The U16 Girls Youth Cup Final takes place on 26th April at 10 am at Abbey Hey FC with a 10am kick off. The girls with play Haslingden Ladies and Girls Cyclones U16. The girls play in the competitive North West Girls Super League and have taken on the challenge representing Bury FC with relish. We really hope that the whole of Bury FC get behind these youngsters who, week in, week out wear the white and blue with such pride and who have worked so hard to get to these finals. Girls U18 Youth Cup Final Bury FC U18 v Wythenshawe FC U18 Irlam FC 23rd April 7pm Girls U16 Youth Cup Final Bury FC U16 v Haslingden Ladies and Girls U16 Abbey Hey FC 26th April 10am Admission £6 Adults £4 Concession U16 £1 View the full article

Supporters heading to Gigg Lane on Good Friday will notice a real change in the matchday experience! Behind the scenes, Bury Football Club, working in collaboration with catering partner The Difference Group, has made significant improvements to its food and drink offering across the ground. The result is a more varied, higher-quality selection designed to better serve fans and enhance the overall atmosphere on matchdays. Upgrades Across the Kiosks Inside the stadium, kiosks have seen a clear upgrade in both quality and choice. Supporters can now enjoy a range of new additions that go beyond the traditional football fare. Recent changes include the popular Bowen’s Pies, which were introduced and went down a treat at the last match. Even after ordering 50% more than usual, confident fans would love them as much as we do, they still sold out! We’ll ensure there’s even more on sale for our remaining fixtures, with both steak and meat & potato sold in all kiosks around the ground. At the Main Stand kiosks, fans can now enjoy a ‘Pie of the Week,’ with the first special – salt & pepper chicken – quickly becoming a fan favourite last week. Another exciting addition is giant samosas, served with tasty dips, offering a flavour-packed alternative for a Saturday afternoon treat. In the South Stand, the focus has been on hearty, satisfying dishes. Fans can enjoy options like black pudding with roast potatoes and peppercorn sauce, or chilli with roast potatoes – providing a more substantial choice for a filling matchday meal. And for fans looking to raise a glass, our very own Shakers 1885 Pilsner has now joined the beer van in the South Stand. Brewed exclusively for Bury fans, 1885 Pilsner adds the perfect complement to your matchday experience and gives fans even more choice when it comes to refreshments. Expanding Beyond the Turnstiles The improvements aren’t limited to inside the ground. Outside the stadium a range of new food vendors has been introduced this season to broaden the matchday experience even further. Fans can now enjoy a range of tasty options, from a jacket potato van serving healthy, loaded toppings to an Indian street food van bursting with flavour, there’s something for everyone. There’s also a hot drinks van offering artisan coffees, teas and hot chocolates to keep you warm. Perfect for grabbing a bite or drink on the way in — and yes, you can take your food and hot drinks to your seat and enjoy them while watching the warm-ups, ready for the action to kick off. This expanded offering helps reduce queues inside the stadium while also giving supporters more variety and flexibility. Speaking about the improvements, Casey Lynchey, Head of Operations & Community said: “Improving the matchday experience for our supporters is a huge priority for us, and the changes to our food and drink offering are a big part of that. We’ve listened to feedback from fans and worked closely with our catering partners to introduce more variety and better quality across the ground. It’s about making sure that a visit to Gigg Lane is enjoyable from the moment you arrive to the final whistle. We know we still have more work to do and we won’t rest until every single fan has the best possible experience.” Raising the Standard These changes reflect a wider commitment to improve every aspect of the fan experience. By working closely with its catering partner, the club is ensuring that food and drink at Gigg Lane matches the ambition and pride shown on the pitch. For supporters, it’s a simple but important upgrade: better quality food, a more varied choice and a matchday experience that continues to improve. With just three home games left this season, it’s all hands on deck as we chase another title and push for promotion – so purchase your tickets and come down to enjoy the upgraded matchday experience. Let’s all help drive the team to the finish line! View the full article

Our Head of Women’s Football, Casey Lynchey provided the latest updates on the women’s section at the club in yesterday matchday programme. As Head of Women’s Football at Bury FC, I am immensely proud of the progress we have made in recent years. What we are building is far more than a collection of teams; it is a clearly defined pathway, a thriving community, and a culture in which women and girls feel valued, supported and inspired to be part of our club. On any given training evening at Gigg Lane, the impact of this work is visible. Young girls take their first touches in a Bury shirt through our Bury Ballers and Wildcats sessions, teenage players grow in confidence and ambition, and adult women rediscover their love of the game, sometimes after many years away. Creating a genuine journey from grassroots participation to adult football has been a central focus of our efforts. We now proudly field girls’ teams across multiple age groups, from Under-7s through to Under-18s, as well as an FA-approved Squad Girls’ provision for teenage girls. At senior level, our women’s first team, reserves and development squad provide a clear progression route for those advancing through the pathway. Our first team is currently competing in Tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid within the NWWRFL, where they continue to demonstrate resilience and ambition. This season, they have secured valuable points against respected local rivals including Bolton Wanderers and FC United of Manchester. These results reflect both the quality within the squad and the progress we are making as a club. Our reserves and development squads play an equally important role within this structure. The women’s reserves have gone over a year unbeaten in the league, are pushing for another league title and are firmly in the hunt for back-to-back promotions. They have also secured a place in the Greater Manchester Women’s Football League Cup semi-final, showing real consistency and quality throughout the season. If promoted, they will join the first team in the North West Regional League (Tier 6). The newly formed development team, made up mainly of young and upcoming U21 players, have had an excellent first year in the Women’s Football League. Their progress has been impressive, and they have now reached their first divisional cup final after a strong 3–2 win over Salford United. With eight women’s recreational teams and five women’s vet’s teams, this section has become one of the most diverse and well-established parts of the club. It reflects our commitment to providing football for every level of ability and ambition, ensuring genuine accessibility. Our recreational programme offers a structured, supportive environment for those new to the game and those returning after time away, while our thriving vets section demonstrates that passion for football continues well beyond traditional pathways. Together, these teams showcase our inclusive ethos and reinforce our reputation as a club that champions lifelong participation in football. Furthermore, we have recently introduced a women’s walking football programme, ‘Walk This Way’, funded by Bury VCFA. Our message is simple: football at Bury FC is for life. Our youngest female participant is just two years old, and we are proud to offer opportunities that extend well beyond traditional playing years. Each new team represents more than growth in numbers; it represents opportunity for women and girls in our town and beyond to play, compete, build friendships and develop through football. I am particularly proud of the strong female presence throughout the wider club. Women are not only participating – they are leading, organising and shaping the future direction of Bury FC. From important decision-making and leading match-day operations to community engagement and youth development, women’s voices are integral to our club. Visibility matters. When young girls see women leading, coaching, volunteering and representing the club, they see tangible examples of what is possible. What we are building is sustainable, inclusive and ambitious. Above all, it is driven by passion – passion from players proud to wear the shirt, from volunteers committed to our vision, and from a club that recognises the importance of equal opportunity. As we continue to grow and evolve, I firmly believe that the most exciting chapters are still ahead. View the full article

Bury FC are delighted to announce that Leo Graham’s loan from Wigan Athletic has been extended until the end of the 2025/26 season. Leo has made a strong impact during his time with us, and we’re thrilled to see his development continue in a Bury shirt for another year. The 19-year-old came off the bench to make his Shakers debut at Witton Albion at the end of November and has gone on to make 10 appearances, with 8 starts. Graham has quickly become a fan’s favourite with his Man of the Match display against Clitheroe on Boxing Day leading to becoming December’s Player of the Month. Leo has also contributed 3 goals during his short-term loan, the pick of the bunch being the opener against Darlaston Town last Saturday. We’d like to place on record our sincere thanks to everyone at Wigan Athletic for their continued trust in Bury FC and for allowing us to play a part in Leo’s ongoing development. View the full article

Over the Christmas break, Bury FC proudly ran a Holiday Club in partnership with the holiday activities and food programme (HAF). A fantastic few days filled with football, fun activities, and nutritious meals, supporting local children and families during the holidays. The holiday club was another huge success, with lots of children getting a chance to play at Gigg Lane. The children also got a special visit from Bury FC Women’s first team! We’re proud to continue supporting our local community both on and off the pitch. A huge thank you to our coaches, partners, and everyone who helped make the holiday club a success. We loved every minute! View the full article

Bury Football Club can confirm that Tim Lees will step up into the role of First Team Manager on an interim basis until the end of the 2025/26 season. Tim has been a highly valued member of the club’s football staff and brings continuity, commitment, and a deep understanding of the club’s values and ambitions. His appointment ensures stability as the team continues its work on and off the pitch for the remainder of the campaign. Tim will be supported by Sam Ashton, who will play a key role within the first team setup and provide additional experience and continuity during this interim period. Lees stated on his appointment: The club will now take time to carefully assess all available options as part of a thorough process to appoint a permanent First Team Manager ahead of the 2026/27 season. This approach will allow the club to plan strategically for the future while maintaining focus on current objectives. Everyone at Bury Football Club would like to congratulate Tim on his appointment and wish both him every success in the role. The club would also like to thank supporters for their continued backing as we move forward together. View the full article

Structure of the organisation – How we arrived at the current position I have previously given an update on where we are with the structure of the organisation and the relationship with the benefactors, but with more questions and so much misinformation in circulation I have prepared this more detailed note which summarises how we have arrived at the current position. As secretary of the Football Supporters’ Society of Bury (FSSB) I have no vote, my role is to record discussions and decisions made and where appropriate share these with members. My role is primarily to protect the members’ interests and if, as Secretary, I believe the society is not acting in the best interests of its members then I must remedy the situation. As a result, these notes are intended to be a factual record of events, rather than a statement of opinion. External advice has been sought and received all the way through this process, and I will refer to this where relevant. In summary: The current ownership structure was agreed by all seven of the board members present. There were no objections and one person was absent due to holiday. We have acted in accordance with the external advice we sought from both our lawyers and the FSA. The facts were supported by other impartial individuals involved in discussions, including the Investment Director at Greater Manchester Combined Authority. Opportunities to discuss or comment on our previous communications have been offered to the benefactors. There is no reason the structure cannot change once the promised funds are committed, it just needs member approval. The contents of this report have all been agreed as accurate by the board of FSSB. There was very little difference in the information presented to members from the first amalgamation vote in October 2022, which did not pass, and the second vote in May 2023 which was approved. The formalities of the motions themselves were identical and all of the actions required from these motions are complete. Specifically, Bury FC Supporters’ Society members (BFCSS) were asked to approve the amalgamation of the two societies. Shakers Community Society (SCS) members were asked to approve the amalgamation of the two societies, change the playing name to Bury Football Club, and move playing venue to Gigg Lane. The differences between the two votes simply reflect that SCS owned the football club, then playing as Bury AFC, which needed member approval to change playing name and home ground. BFCSS owned a controlling interest (in that they owned the majority of voting rights) in the company which owns the stadium, called The Bury Football Club Company Limited. The other co-owner of The Bury Football Club Company Limited is Bury FC Benefactors Limited, which is the vehicle which holds the shares on behalf of the benefactors who invested in half of the cost of the acquisition of Gigg Lane, the other half funded by central government money in the form of the Community Ownership Fund, which falls under the remit of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC). In regard to the benefactors’ contribution to acquire Gigg Lane they have no expectation or desire to earn a financial reward. Two other key pieces of information were noted within the documentation issued to members prior to the vote, which are pertinent to the current situation. One was that the organisation would be restructured so that the football club would fall under the ownership of The Bury Football Club Company Limited, which would give Bury FC Benefactors Limited an equal share in the football club, albeit without voting control. The other was that a successful vote to amalgamate would result in additional capital committed to the project. This included £300k from the two societies, £450k from Bury Council, the remaining £300k from DLUHC and around £300k from Bury FC Benefactors Limited. There is some dispute as to the exact figure which should be used for the benefactor contribution but as no monies have been committed at all so far, I do not think this point is relevant at this point. DLUHC have confirmed that around £300k of the £1m agreed is still available to draw down from their fund. Prior to the second vote SCS board members wished to evidence to its members that this money was still available. It was evident from its own finances that the society could meet its obligations. Bury Council reconfirmed their own commitment, subject to the conditions previously outlined, and DLUHC confirmed the remaining funding was still available. Understandably, it was not possible to evidence the Bury FC Benefactors Limited money was available as it had not been committed and we were advised it would not be committed unless the second amalgamation vote was successful. This was not a surprise. No additional funding has been provided from Bury FC Benefactors Limited to The Bury Football Club Company Limited other than the initial funding required to purchase the stadium in early 2021. A request for a letter of intent from benefactors was requested but not provided and it was accepted this would have no binding legal status. There was a desire from both sides to find a solution to this, as the SCS board was uncomfortable recommending the merger to members based on this level of uncertainty. The Investment Director at Greater Manchester Combined Authority, who had chaired various meetings on the second amalgamation, was asked to discuss the availability of the benefactor funding with a director and representative of Bury FC Benefactors Limited, who confirmed that the funding was available and conditional only on the merger. This information was relayed to the SCS board to provide some additional comfort and evidence that this information had been provided to a third party, not just the SCS board. We received written confirmation from that Investment Director on the 11th2023 that this conversation took place and I have copied the relevant statement below: “At the working group meeting on 10th February, the minutes show that in order to move forwards towards a vote one of the points you (SCS) needed was confirmation that the £300k of funding from the Benefactors was still available. The minutes note that the £300k was subject to a positive outcome of the vote.” “Further to this meeting I had a conversation with Matt Barker to understand the position with respect to the additional benefactor monies as given the status of the vote at that time, Matt had not wanted to revert to Benefactors and ask for a letter of commitment. In my conversation Matt was clear that whilst he did not feel it was the right time to go back and ask for a letter of commitment from the Benefactors, that he was comfortable that this funding was available subject to a positive vote outcome and that I could reiterate this message to you ( SCS). In addition, the Q&As, which were approved by that same director and representative of Bury FC Benefactors Limited, and issued to members of both societies ahead of the merger vote read: “All of the previous funding is available again should a vote go through this time. This is an instant £1.3m rising to an estimated £2.3m over time. This includes a further £300,000 from the existing benefactors. There has been no further capital invested or donated to the project since the first vote. There will be some confirmatory diligence undertaken to confirm all funds are in place as expected before the merger completes.” It was understood, therefore, that the additional benefactor money was readily available, and subject to no conditions other than a positive amalgamation vote, given that it was to come from existing benefactors who had already committed funds. The exact source of the funds, whether it be new or existing benefactors is not material, other than by stating the money could come from existing benefactors it gave the SCS board far more confidence it would be made available. Bury Council were also concerned to establish that this funding was available. The terms of their own funding which are detailed in their cabinet paper of 13th June 2022 states: “The business plan includes a commitment of £1m from private benefactors of which £730k has been invested to date. The balance of £270k will be invested if the merger discussions are successful and will be used as match funding, alongside the Bury Council funding, to release the balancing £300k of grant from the Community Ownership Fund.” The business plan originally submitted included additional funding from Bury FC Benefactor Limited. We were advised that there were no available Bury FC Benefactor Limited funds after voting had closed. There was no immediate financial pressure caused by this situation, however once it became apparent that the money would not be committed a discussion amongst the FSSB board members was held at a board meeting on firstly the 4th July 2023 ( where seven board members were present) and later on the 18th July 2023 ( where seven board members were present) ) about the next steps. At the meeting on the 4th July 2023 the relevant minute confirms that: ‘It was agreed by all that it would be wrong to transfer Bury Football Club (2019) Ltd to The Bury Football Club Company Ltd as the financial diligence has not been completed and Bury FC Benefactors Ltd have not provided an additional £300k into that company as set out in the original merger proposal.’ It was also agreed at the meeting on the 4th July 2023 that: “advice from Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP would be sought (should these funds be made available in future) about whether a member vote would be required. Bury Football Club (2019) Ltd trading as Bury Football Club would remain a wholly owned subsidiary of the Football Supporters’ Society of Bury’ A course of action was agreed at board meeting on the 18th July 2023 attended by seven of the eight board members. All seven voted in favour of this and the relevant minute is copied below. “MB has confirmed there is £240k outstanding from the Benefactors who want a meeting to discuss. We can arrange a meeting but even with this figure there seems to be a £60k downfall. Benefactors feel £760k has been paid in to date. JW said there was an understanding that there would be £1mil of funding from existing benefactors at the time of the vote amongst members. MB spoke to PY prior to vote results being announced to say that additional benefactor funding would not immediately be available. DT raised that current position of the benefactors suggest that they do not or are unwilling to immediately invest existing funds. MB has stated that the current position is ‘uninvestible’ KL says we’re currently in transition period. Deadline has been given until the end of the month for the benefactors to provide additional funds but keen that all avenues should still be explored with the benefactors to resolve the matter. PY agreed that the deadline was sensible and then we can draw a line under it and decide on a new way forward. PY happy to meet to discuss with benefactors as requested along with other Interim Board members. . Meeting to be facilitated in forthcoming weeks between Benefactors and IB members, Face to Face is going to be more difficult due to geographical and proximity issues involved of IB members and benefactors. KL suggested that a minute taker be present and a second set of eyes and ears. ACTION: Meeting to be arranged between Benefactors and IB members to discuss this current impasse. Remote meeting would be most suitable.” The legal opinion, obtained from a mutual law expert at the firm who had advised us throughout the amalgamation process confirmed this course of action. In particular, it re-iterated that in the absence of any binding legal agreement on the matter the society could not force benefactors individually or collectively to pay the outstanding amount, nor could the benefactors force transfer of the football cub ownership. Given that this would effectively be transferring half of the ownership of the football club for no financial contribution it was clear this would not be in the interests of the society, which may wish to accept investment into the football club at a future date, subject to member vote. We were advised to provide a deadline date of seven or fourteen days to Bury FC Benefactors Limited for the investment to allow another opportunity for investment and gave a deadline of the 31st July 2023. It was confirmed that the outstanding monies would not be paid, and the matter closed. We had also advised further investment could be made, along with changes to the ownership structure but this would be subject to another consultation and member vote, as the terms of the previous agreement had expired. Again, this was in accordance with the legal advice we received and also the advice received from the Football Supporters Association (FSA) who had been involved throughout. It was expected that the benefactors would not agree with this, as they still believe the football club ownership should be transferred without any additional financial contribution from Bury FC Benefactors Limited. The dispute between board members of FSSB occurred when it was suggested that this situation be disclosed to members. The board was equally split on this issue and we did not have a majority vote to disclose the information to members. The statement which was eventually released and can be seen here, and is repeated below, had been passed to the board of Bury FC Benefactors Limited for comment on the 1st August 2023 and we had received no comment on it other than that it had been received and they were not in agreement with its release. By the 6th August 2023 we had still received no comment on it, and I, acting as Secretary, took advice from the FSA on my obligations as I felt it was something FSSB members should be informed of given we had been asked about funding by some members, questions had been raised about the football club ownership and it was pertinent to the amalgamation vote which was a hugely significant event for members of both societies. It was issued to members by email on the 7th August 2023 at 6.00pm and is reproduced below. Update from The Secretary of the Football Supporters' Society of Bury We have completed the amalgamation of the two societies, the name change to Bury Football Club and made Gigg Lane our home ground, which were the three items voted on by members in May. We also advised as part of the pre-vote information pack that we would move the ownership of the football club, which is Bury Football Club (2019) Ltd trading as Bury Football Club, under the ownership of The Bury Football Club Company Limited, subject to further financial due diligence. We have been advised by Bury FC Benefactors Ltd that at this stage they will not be investing the further £300, 000 they had committed to in the business plan presented to members. This does not place the stadium or club in any significant jeopardy as we are still able to access both central and local government funding in addition to holding our own cash reserves. There is no obligation on Bury FC Benefactors Ltd to invest this money, and we will continue to work with them as normal. Equally there is no requirement for the Football Supporters’ Society of Bury to make any changes to the ownership of the club, and so it will remain 100% owned by the Society, and separate from The Bury Football Club Company Limited, which the Society co-owns with Bury FC Benefactors Ltd. The Football Supporters’ Society of Bury also owns the majority of voting rights in The Bury Football Club Company Limited, so should not be prejudiced in any way by keeping the organisational structure in its current format. Should any party, including Bury FC Benefactors Ltd, wish to invest into either Bury Football Club (2019) Ltd or The Bury Football Club Company Limited at a future date they may do so by an approach to the board of the Football Supporters’ Society of Bury, who can take this forward to member consultation and a member vote if they believe it is a credible offer in the best interests of the club and the society. There are some significant legal and tax issues to consider as part of any transaction like this, in addition to the need for member approval, and so it is unlikely that any offer could be agreed and put forward for a vote quickly or without professional advice. Rod Peters Secretary to the Interim Board