Karen Matthews
11th May 2003, 17:21
COPIES OF THE REPORTS REFERRED TO IN THE AGM MINUTES ARE AVAILABLE ON APPLICATION TO THE COMPANY SECRETARY, SHAREHOLDERS UNITED, 1 BRADDON ROAD, WOODLEY, STOCKPORT SK6 1RE - OR BY SENDING AN EMAIL TO KAREN.MATTHEWS2@BTINTERNET.COM
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
SATURDAY 3RD MAY 2003
THE NORSEMAN ROOM, SAMUEL PLATTS, TRAFFORD PARK
PRESENT:
Jonathan Michie (Chair); Karen Matthews (Secretary); John Fletcher; Sean Bones; Roger Brierley; Michael Crick; Duncan Drasdo; Oliver Houston; Margaret Orhan;George Baxter; Howard Borrington; Andy Brennan; Pete Butler; John Butterfield; Andy Grainam; Roy Graham; Anthony Grundy; Henry Hyatt; Mark Longden; Jonathan Lord; Julian Lord; Brian Pendlebury; Lucy Pendlebury; Rupert Pendlebury; Fraser Rettie; Shirley Roberts; Graeme Rule; Sue Simpson; Mark Southee; Scott Taylor; Geoff Watson and Jean Watson.
APOLOGIES:
Lynette Cawthra; Gary Hirst; John Hurst; Sheila Kenyon; Mick Meade; Jean Nash; Tanya Taylor; Nick Towle; Theresa Towle; Helen Sadler; Lee Shailer and Doreen Walmsley.
MINUTES OF THE 2002 AGM:
The Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 11th May 2002, having been previously circulated, were formally approved and accepted as a true and accurate record.
ELECTION RESULTS:
The Secretary reported that nominations had been sought for two Directors’ posts, six Committee members’ posts, and for the Fans’ Forum Representative. As a result of the nominations received, and subsequent ballots held, the following are duly elected:
Sean Bones is re-elected unopposed as Vice Chair for two years: 2003-2005
Roger Brierley is re-elected unopposed as Finance Director for three years: 2003-2006
Committee Members
There were six nominees for the Committee posts. It was previously agreed that the person receiving the least amount of votes would serve for a term of one year only (this being the place vacated by Duncan Drasdo) and would then be eligible to stand for re-election in 2004.
The following are therefore elected for a period of three years (2003-2006):
Nick Towle (125 votes); Margaret Orhan (121 votes); Theresa Towle (120 votes); Jeffrey Boxen (100 votes) and John Hurst (96 votes).
The following is elected for a period of one year (2003-2004):
Richard Hytner (70 votes).
As two nominations had been received, a ballot was held for the Fans’ Forum Representative post:
Gary Hirst (103 votes)
Jeffrey Boxen (23 votes)
Gary Hirst is therefore duly elected to serve as the SU Representative on the Fans’ Forum for the Season 2003/2004.
Action: Karen Matthews to notify Marie Woodward at MUFC
REPORTS:
Copies of all reports received were available for members at the meeting.
Chair’s Report
Jonathan Michie presented his report (copy attached), making particular reference to the following:
· The threat of takeover bids, and the consequential media speculation, highlighted the dangers of introducing a whole series of new investors who may only be interested in financial gain. The instability of the situation underlined the importance for Shareholders United to increase its membership.
· The SU Committee recommended not submitting any Resolutions to the MUplc AGM in 2003, preferring instead to pursue such issues through discussion and concentrating on working towards an improved relationship and constructive meetings with the Board.
· It was hoped to have Peter Kenyon present at the Committee Meeting scheduled for the date of the first home fixture of the new season. The venue to be advised in due course.
Financial Director’s Report/Appointment of Auditors
Roger Brierley presented his report (copy attached) and explained that the short reporting period, i.e. 1st January 2002 to 3rd July 2002, was because Shareholders United had become a company limited by guarantee (clg) on 4th July 2002. Companies House had recommended that SU clg’s first accounts should run from 4th July 2002 to 31st December 2003, and thereafter annually to 31st December. This will effectively mean that next year’s accounts will cover an eighteen months period.
Roger reported that currently there was approximately £3500 in the Bank and £5043 in reserves; with notification from Duncan that there is approximately £6000 in net membership fees still to come through.
Given that at the May 2004 AGM the figures would still be three months out of date, Michael Crick asked if there could be an informal ‘add-on’ paragraph to the end of the Financial Director’s report next year giving, as far as possible, a more accurate and up-to-date report of the financial situation as at May 2004.
The Auditor’s report was presented (copy attached) and both reports adopted by unanimous consent.
A proposal to re-appoint Henry Hyatt as the SU Auditor for 2003-2004 was accepted unanimously, and a vote of thanks extended to Henry for his excellent work on the preparation and auditing of this year’s accounts.
Fundraising Report
John Fletcher presented his report and emphasised the importance of fundraising especially if there was an urgent need to write to all 35,000 shareholders. John referred specifically to –
· SU Credentials presentation (26 slides on Powerpoint)
· Affiliate sponsors – now looking at whether SU recruits competing sponsors or high profile regional companies rather than official Club sponsors
· Exploring various opportunities, including life membership
· Plenty of ideas for the forthcoming year
John expressed his thanks to Duncan Drasdo and Sean Bones for their help and support throughout the year.
Jonathan Michie said SU had benefited hugely due to the efforts of both IMUSA and the three main fanzines – a situation he said was somewhat unusual for a supporters’ trust – and suggested that SU write to IMUSA, the three Fanzine Editors and Jim Smith of Clear Marketing to express the organisation’s gratitude for their assistance and support during the last twelve months.
Patrons Report
Margaret Orhan presented the Patrons Report (copy attached):
· Invitations (33) sent to new group of potential patrons during April 2003. Not considered a good idea to invite ex-players who are still involved with other clubs but pursuing those who are not.
· Patrons confirmed from all categories currently total 14.
· Montage sample shown to the meeting.
· SU may need to consider delegating Committee member to liaise with the official MUFC Branches.
Recruitment and Membership Report
Sean Bones presented his report (copy attached) and added that 10,000 application forms promoting the chance to win a signed Beckham shirt had been sent out during the preceding week to 200 official Manchester United Supporters’ Club Branches – throughout the United Kingdom and overseas.
Duncan Drasdo had also sent two viral emails: one to the current membership to encourage them to each recruit two new members; and the other to non-members to introduce SU and promote the Beckham shirt offer before the deadline of 31st May.
There are now reported to be 2215 members.
Media/Website Report
Oliver Houston gave a verbal report on press coverage (including appearances on MUTV) during the preceding twelve month period and tabled two articles in particular: the two-page spread which appeared in the April edition of United magazine; and an article which appeared in the Manchester Evening News on 3rd April. He stated that every effort was being made to try to work more amicably with the Club and avoid causing offence wherever possible.
The web site has been re-designed and now has an on-line joining facility and the facility for some SU Committee members to post items on the site. The site has still retained some of its old features.
Newsletter Report
As Theresa Towle had been delayed in traffic, there was no report tabled at the meeting. This has since been received and is attached with these minutes.
Fans’ Forum Report
As Gary Hirst had tendered his apologies, no report was tabled. It is hoped this might be circulated in the near future.
Share Scheme Report
Duncan Drasdo tabled his report (copies were available at the meeting) and drew members’ attention particularly to the membership growth (illustrated by a graph), which he felt was directly as a result of recent publicity and recruitment drive. He went on to explain the content of the report, answering a query raised regarding the standing orders figure.
He concluded by saying that there were plenty of leaflets remaining (containing the Beckham shirt offer) and available for distribution after today’s game, and anyone willing to help was encouraged to take a bag. It was noted that the promotion ends on 31st May.
IMUSA Report
Mark Longden (Chair of IMUSA) gave a verbal report, the main items presented were:
· Ticketing – Mick Meade reportedly to be working successfully by cajoling the Club into helping with discrepancies on ticket allocations.
· IMUSA put a case to UEFA that United fans had been charged almost double the price charged to home supporters, despite this being in clear breach of current regulations on ticket prices for the game at the BayArena on 24th September. IMUSA complained at the prices charged by Bayer Leverkusen and Manchester United Football Club in turn took the complaint to UEFA, where their disciplinary committee reviewed the case and ruled in favour of United's fans, confirming supporters should receive refunds to the value of the difference between what they paid and the true value of tickets on sale to supporters of Bayer Leverkusen.
· IMUSA London meetings going well. Paddy Harverson attended the most recent one.
· Early Kick-Offs – the 3PM SAT campaign on 22nd March (home fixture against Fulham) was a great success with supporters keen to participate and asking for the A4 sized cards bearing the number 3. The tender is going to the TV stations shortly. The demand is for at least 50% of 3.00 p.m. kick-off times for next season. Fans are urged to sign the petition at www.3pmsat.co.uk. Mention also made of the PR and press publicity provided by Helen Goldsmith (thought to be worth circa £285k if taken as ‘real’ advertising space.)
· Mick Meade has written to UEFA about the treatment of fans abroad.
· Football Fans’ Federation (FSF) trying to put together some funding for a Development Officer.
· Mark advised he would be stepping down as Chair of IMUSA this year and that their AGM would be held on 4th June.
Jonathan Michie thanked Mark for his report and for all his help during his term of office as the Chair of IMUSA. He then referred briefly to the issue of the redistribution of Premiership income whereby MU plc are seeking to take some of its media rights from the Premier League. This is to be included as an agenda item for further discussion at the next SU Directors’ meeting on 12th May.
RESOLUTIONS:
No Resolutions were received.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
There was no other business.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
SATURDAY 3RD MAY 2003
THE NORSEMAN ROOM, SAMUEL PLATTS, TRAFFORD PARK
PRESENT:
Jonathan Michie (Chair); Karen Matthews (Secretary); John Fletcher; Sean Bones; Roger Brierley; Michael Crick; Duncan Drasdo; Oliver Houston; Margaret Orhan;George Baxter; Howard Borrington; Andy Brennan; Pete Butler; John Butterfield; Andy Grainam; Roy Graham; Anthony Grundy; Henry Hyatt; Mark Longden; Jonathan Lord; Julian Lord; Brian Pendlebury; Lucy Pendlebury; Rupert Pendlebury; Fraser Rettie; Shirley Roberts; Graeme Rule; Sue Simpson; Mark Southee; Scott Taylor; Geoff Watson and Jean Watson.
APOLOGIES:
Lynette Cawthra; Gary Hirst; John Hurst; Sheila Kenyon; Mick Meade; Jean Nash; Tanya Taylor; Nick Towle; Theresa Towle; Helen Sadler; Lee Shailer and Doreen Walmsley.
MINUTES OF THE 2002 AGM:
The Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 11th May 2002, having been previously circulated, were formally approved and accepted as a true and accurate record.
ELECTION RESULTS:
The Secretary reported that nominations had been sought for two Directors’ posts, six Committee members’ posts, and for the Fans’ Forum Representative. As a result of the nominations received, and subsequent ballots held, the following are duly elected:
Sean Bones is re-elected unopposed as Vice Chair for two years: 2003-2005
Roger Brierley is re-elected unopposed as Finance Director for three years: 2003-2006
Committee Members
There were six nominees for the Committee posts. It was previously agreed that the person receiving the least amount of votes would serve for a term of one year only (this being the place vacated by Duncan Drasdo) and would then be eligible to stand for re-election in 2004.
The following are therefore elected for a period of three years (2003-2006):
Nick Towle (125 votes); Margaret Orhan (121 votes); Theresa Towle (120 votes); Jeffrey Boxen (100 votes) and John Hurst (96 votes).
The following is elected for a period of one year (2003-2004):
Richard Hytner (70 votes).
As two nominations had been received, a ballot was held for the Fans’ Forum Representative post:
Gary Hirst (103 votes)
Jeffrey Boxen (23 votes)
Gary Hirst is therefore duly elected to serve as the SU Representative on the Fans’ Forum for the Season 2003/2004.
Action: Karen Matthews to notify Marie Woodward at MUFC
REPORTS:
Copies of all reports received were available for members at the meeting.
Chair’s Report
Jonathan Michie presented his report (copy attached), making particular reference to the following:
· The threat of takeover bids, and the consequential media speculation, highlighted the dangers of introducing a whole series of new investors who may only be interested in financial gain. The instability of the situation underlined the importance for Shareholders United to increase its membership.
· The SU Committee recommended not submitting any Resolutions to the MUplc AGM in 2003, preferring instead to pursue such issues through discussion and concentrating on working towards an improved relationship and constructive meetings with the Board.
· It was hoped to have Peter Kenyon present at the Committee Meeting scheduled for the date of the first home fixture of the new season. The venue to be advised in due course.
Financial Director’s Report/Appointment of Auditors
Roger Brierley presented his report (copy attached) and explained that the short reporting period, i.e. 1st January 2002 to 3rd July 2002, was because Shareholders United had become a company limited by guarantee (clg) on 4th July 2002. Companies House had recommended that SU clg’s first accounts should run from 4th July 2002 to 31st December 2003, and thereafter annually to 31st December. This will effectively mean that next year’s accounts will cover an eighteen months period.
Roger reported that currently there was approximately £3500 in the Bank and £5043 in reserves; with notification from Duncan that there is approximately £6000 in net membership fees still to come through.
Given that at the May 2004 AGM the figures would still be three months out of date, Michael Crick asked if there could be an informal ‘add-on’ paragraph to the end of the Financial Director’s report next year giving, as far as possible, a more accurate and up-to-date report of the financial situation as at May 2004.
The Auditor’s report was presented (copy attached) and both reports adopted by unanimous consent.
A proposal to re-appoint Henry Hyatt as the SU Auditor for 2003-2004 was accepted unanimously, and a vote of thanks extended to Henry for his excellent work on the preparation and auditing of this year’s accounts.
Fundraising Report
John Fletcher presented his report and emphasised the importance of fundraising especially if there was an urgent need to write to all 35,000 shareholders. John referred specifically to –
· SU Credentials presentation (26 slides on Powerpoint)
· Affiliate sponsors – now looking at whether SU recruits competing sponsors or high profile regional companies rather than official Club sponsors
· Exploring various opportunities, including life membership
· Plenty of ideas for the forthcoming year
John expressed his thanks to Duncan Drasdo and Sean Bones for their help and support throughout the year.
Jonathan Michie said SU had benefited hugely due to the efforts of both IMUSA and the three main fanzines – a situation he said was somewhat unusual for a supporters’ trust – and suggested that SU write to IMUSA, the three Fanzine Editors and Jim Smith of Clear Marketing to express the organisation’s gratitude for their assistance and support during the last twelve months.
Patrons Report
Margaret Orhan presented the Patrons Report (copy attached):
· Invitations (33) sent to new group of potential patrons during April 2003. Not considered a good idea to invite ex-players who are still involved with other clubs but pursuing those who are not.
· Patrons confirmed from all categories currently total 14.
· Montage sample shown to the meeting.
· SU may need to consider delegating Committee member to liaise with the official MUFC Branches.
Recruitment and Membership Report
Sean Bones presented his report (copy attached) and added that 10,000 application forms promoting the chance to win a signed Beckham shirt had been sent out during the preceding week to 200 official Manchester United Supporters’ Club Branches – throughout the United Kingdom and overseas.
Duncan Drasdo had also sent two viral emails: one to the current membership to encourage them to each recruit two new members; and the other to non-members to introduce SU and promote the Beckham shirt offer before the deadline of 31st May.
There are now reported to be 2215 members.
Media/Website Report
Oliver Houston gave a verbal report on press coverage (including appearances on MUTV) during the preceding twelve month period and tabled two articles in particular: the two-page spread which appeared in the April edition of United magazine; and an article which appeared in the Manchester Evening News on 3rd April. He stated that every effort was being made to try to work more amicably with the Club and avoid causing offence wherever possible.
The web site has been re-designed and now has an on-line joining facility and the facility for some SU Committee members to post items on the site. The site has still retained some of its old features.
Newsletter Report
As Theresa Towle had been delayed in traffic, there was no report tabled at the meeting. This has since been received and is attached with these minutes.
Fans’ Forum Report
As Gary Hirst had tendered his apologies, no report was tabled. It is hoped this might be circulated in the near future.
Share Scheme Report
Duncan Drasdo tabled his report (copies were available at the meeting) and drew members’ attention particularly to the membership growth (illustrated by a graph), which he felt was directly as a result of recent publicity and recruitment drive. He went on to explain the content of the report, answering a query raised regarding the standing orders figure.
He concluded by saying that there were plenty of leaflets remaining (containing the Beckham shirt offer) and available for distribution after today’s game, and anyone willing to help was encouraged to take a bag. It was noted that the promotion ends on 31st May.
IMUSA Report
Mark Longden (Chair of IMUSA) gave a verbal report, the main items presented were:
· Ticketing – Mick Meade reportedly to be working successfully by cajoling the Club into helping with discrepancies on ticket allocations.
· IMUSA put a case to UEFA that United fans had been charged almost double the price charged to home supporters, despite this being in clear breach of current regulations on ticket prices for the game at the BayArena on 24th September. IMUSA complained at the prices charged by Bayer Leverkusen and Manchester United Football Club in turn took the complaint to UEFA, where their disciplinary committee reviewed the case and ruled in favour of United's fans, confirming supporters should receive refunds to the value of the difference between what they paid and the true value of tickets on sale to supporters of Bayer Leverkusen.
· IMUSA London meetings going well. Paddy Harverson attended the most recent one.
· Early Kick-Offs – the 3PM SAT campaign on 22nd March (home fixture against Fulham) was a great success with supporters keen to participate and asking for the A4 sized cards bearing the number 3. The tender is going to the TV stations shortly. The demand is for at least 50% of 3.00 p.m. kick-off times for next season. Fans are urged to sign the petition at www.3pmsat.co.uk. Mention also made of the PR and press publicity provided by Helen Goldsmith (thought to be worth circa £285k if taken as ‘real’ advertising space.)
· Mick Meade has written to UEFA about the treatment of fans abroad.
· Football Fans’ Federation (FSF) trying to put together some funding for a Development Officer.
· Mark advised he would be stepping down as Chair of IMUSA this year and that their AGM would be held on 4th June.
Jonathan Michie thanked Mark for his report and for all his help during his term of office as the Chair of IMUSA. He then referred briefly to the issue of the redistribution of Premiership income whereby MU plc are seeking to take some of its media rights from the Premier League. This is to be included as an agenda item for further discussion at the next SU Directors’ meeting on 12th May.
RESOLUTIONS:
No Resolutions were received.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
There was no other business.