Karen Matthews
18th May 2004, 21:09
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
SATURDAY 8TH MAY 2004
THE NORSEMAN ROOM, SAMUEL PLATTS, TRAFFORD PARK
PRESENT
Jonathan Michie; Nick Towle; Karen Matthews; Sean Bones; Roger Brierley; Chris Baker; David Blatt; Pete Butler; Lynette Cawthra; Shirley Cawthra; Keith Cooke; Sharon Cowell; Bruce Crawford; Michael Crick; Eric Downs; Duncan Drasdo; Ian Gordon; A. Graham; Roy Graham; Malachy Halpin; Eric Halsall; Steve Hunt; Oliver Houston; John Howie; Henry Hyatt; John Kallinicos; Howard Kings; Cyril Lill; Jonathan Lord; Julian Lord; John Macgowan; Gez Mason; D. Nattan; Matthew O’Brien; Margaret Orhan; Sam Roberts; Helen Sadler; Sue Simpson; Christopher Small; Richard Stubbs; Lawrence Spencer; Theresa Towle; John Walker; Geoff Watson; Jean Watson; Paul Whatmore; Greg Whittaker; Louise Wilson; Oli Winton and Robert Winton.
APOLOGIES
Paul Brooks; Derek Burbidge; Mike Cawthra; Gary Hirst; John Hurst; Lee Shailer; Jules Spencer and Tanya Taylor.
WELCOME
Jonathan Michie welcomed everyone to the meeting and explained that he would be handing over the Chair to Nick Towle following item 3.
MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS AGM
The Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 3rd May 2003, having been previously circulated, were formally approved and accepted as a true and accurate record.
MATTERS ARISING
There were no matters arising.
RESOLUTIONS
(i) To approve the company’s annual accounts for the year ended 31st December 2003.
Jonathan Michie expressed thanks to Roger Brierley and Henry Hyatt for the huge amounts of work they have carried out; some of which had involved looking at many aspects brought about by growth, particularly the issue of VAT.
The accounts were formally and unanimously approved – copies were available for members to collect.
(ii) To re-appoint the company’s accountant.
Jonathan Michie proposed that Henry Hyatt once again be re-appointed as the company’s Accountant. His agreement sought, the resolution was passed by unanimous support. Henry was thanked for once again agreeing to fill this voluntary role.
(iii) To appoint Nick Towle as a new Director in the position of Chair and another Director as Vice-Chair in accordance with the results of the members’ ballot.
There being no other nominations for the post of Chair, Nick Towle was elected unopposed for a three year term.
A ballot having been conducted for the post of Vice Chair, the results were recorded as follows:
Candidate Number of Votes
Oliver Houston 388
Margaret Orhan 184
No votes cast 2
Oliver Houston was therefore elected to serve for a period of two years.
Both appointments were unanimously endorsed.
(iv) To confirm the election of certain Committee Members to replace those who are due to retire this year in accordance with the results of the members’ ballot.
There were eight vacancies and ten nominations had been received. A ballot having been conducted, the results were recorded as follows:
Candidate Number of Votes/Term Elected
Jonathan Michie 537 Elected for a term of three years
Eric Halsall 513 Elected for a term of three years
Tanya Taylor 467 Elected for a term of three years
Matthew O’Brien 464 Elected for a term of three years
Oliver Houston 459 Already elected Vice Chair, as above
Paul Brooks 427 Elected for a term of three years
Julian Lord 416 Elected for a term two years
Richard Stubbs 297 Elected for a term two years
Oli Winton 228 Elected for a term of one year
Richard Hytner 164
(v) To confirm the election of the Fans’ Forum Representative in accordance with the results of the members’ ballot.
A ballot having been conducted for the post of Fans’ Forum Representative of Season 2004/2005, the results were recorded as follows:
Candidate Number of Votes
Gary Hirst 481
Oli Winton 88
No Votes Cast 5
Gary Hirst was therefore duly elected to serve as the SU Representative on the Fans’ Forum for the Season 2004/2005.
Action: Karen Matthews to notify Marie Woodward at MUFC
Thanks were formally expressed to independent adjudicator Pat Crick for her valuable assistance in counting all the ballot forms.
REPORTS
(* copies made available at the meeting)
Reports were brief due to the shortage of time allocated to the meeting, but it was agreed that all would be posted onto the web site. (Copies of the reports marked * were made available at the meeting for members to take away.)
Action: Karen Matthews
Chair’s Report *
Jonathan Michie presented his report making particular reference to the following:
· The continued threat of takeover
· The continued need to recruit members
· To encourage all members who can, to join the share scheme
· To encourage those who cannot, to at least make one-off share purchases within the scheme whenever possible
· To encourage existing members of the Share Scheme to increase their monthly Standing Order if possible, and if this is not possible, then to make additional one-off purchases whenever they are able
· That urgent consideration should be given to approaching wealthy reds to encourage them to make sizeable one-off share purchases within the Share Scheme.
Jonathan explained the reason for his stepping down from the Chair and passed the meeting over to incoming Chair Nick Towle.
Financial Director’s Report *
Roger presented the first financial report since SU became a company limited by guarantee and explained that the accounts ran from the date of incorporation on 4th July 2002 to 31st December 2003.
He reported that the accounts show a surplus of £14,642, which (even allowing for the fact that this is an 18-month account) was a significant improvement on last year’s deficit. Subscriptions and donations for the period were £54,530 and Roger specifically extended his thanks to Theresa Towle for her welcome assistance in convincing Customs and Excise that SU are currently exempt from VAT. He went on to say that the balance sheet was equally healthy: SU’s assets include an investment in United shares (Cost £11,973 – Market Value at 31st December 2003 £15,368) and the company has been able to maintain satisfactory cash reserves which would enable SU to respond instantly to future threats of a takeover.
At the 2003 AGM the point had been made that at the May 2004 AGM the figures would still be three months out of date, and whether it would be possible for an informal ‘add-on’ paragraph to the end of the Financial Director’s report giving, as far as possible, a more accurate and up-to-date report of the financial situation as at May 2004. This information was provided verbally as follows: first three months £44,613 when takeover scare was at its highest. At 30th April 2004 balances were £22,851 (current account) and £5,053 (deposit account). SU owned shares amount to £19,363.
Roger concluded by expressing his thanks to Henry Hyatt both for his excellent work on the preparation of our accounts, again without remuneration, and for always making himself available for advice and assistance throughout the year.
Patrons Report *
Margaret Orhan reported that SU now has 19 Patrons with the latest additions being Alex Stepney and Paddy Crerand. Both ex-players are delighted to be involved and interviews for a future newsletter are planned imminently.
Thanks were extended to Paul Brooks for his excellent work in setting up Patrons Profiles on the website.
Quotations for embroidered badges are currently being sought.
Recruitment Report *
The year 2003/2004 has shown incredible and spectacular rise on the recruitment front. From a total of 1677 members at March 2003, to 8682 members in March 2004 - the membership has risen by over 500 % (an increase of 7005 new members in the year to March 2004).
The SU ‘Recommend a Friend’ email in particular has involved a lot more work than previously thought. Duncan Drasdo has spent over two weeks solidly programming with a team of five SU members - Tim Shaw, Darren Seamark, Paul Brooks, Gary Young and myself. There are very high hopes for the positive effects it will have in increasing SU membership in the coming year and beyond. Thanks to Duncan for his excellent work and dedication was supported by a round of applause.
Much work has been done with IMUSA in the continuing 'Not For Sale' campaign. Thanks IMUSA for all the help and support you have given SU throughout the year.
Future SU plans include:
· Getting a mail out sent to the 37,000 or so Manchester United shareholders asking them to join SU and pledge their shares in defending the club against takeover.
· Sending out and reacting positively to the demands of the SU “Recommend to a Friend” email – an email that could potentially reach millions of reds around the world.
· United websites SU banner initiative - writing to the webmasters of many United related websites asking them to host a banner ad linking to SU. On offer is an affiliate scheme whereby they will be rewarded with £1 worth of United shares for every member who joins via their website.
· Having a large SU presence on the team tour in the USA in July.
Media Report
Oliver Houston gave a verbal report on media coverage and explained that it was impossible to supply members with his usual batch of press cuttings this year, as media attention and interest had been both exceedingly high and relatively positive - the exception being the News of the World. He made particular reference to the Manchester Evening News and MUTV both of whom were reported as having been particularly supportive and having given SU good coverage.
Oliver also said the Press Conference has been successful and thanked Sean and Duncan for taking up some of the slack since he returned to live in London. He concluded by saying that inevitably something usually happens during the closed season and that everyone should try and be aware of what’s going on in case there is a need for a demo or similar. Thanks to Oliver for his tireless work during the year was supported by a round of applause.
Newsletter Report *
Theresa Towle has stepped down as Newsletter Editor, and the Editor from the June edition will be Julian Lord. Julian will be working in conjunction with Jonathan Bracey-Gibbon who has his own publishing company and designed the March edition. This design was long awaited and the newsletter now looks clean and new, more professional and more attractive to advertisers, which is essential as membership figures increase. The whole production and mail-out cost of the newsletter takes up a large portion of SU’s income. However, it is definitely a work in progress and any comments would be gratefully received. Please address them to Julian – telephone 020 7976 5033 or email juleslord@totalise.co.uk.
A journalist told Theresa that he found the SU website an incredibly useful resource on MU stories. Congratulations to Tanya and Sean and everyone else for all their postings!
Website Report
Duncan reported that the “Recommend a Friend” email was quite sophisticated and there were still a few technical issues to be resolved. He expressed his thanks to Tim Shaw for all his help on this.
The Forum and the Chat Room are both active now and encouraging members to become more involved. One enterprising member recently recruited 140 members initially through Ebay and then referring them onto the SU site.
Thanks were extended to Kathy and Peter Hargreaves for their efficient work in ensuring new members receive their membership packs within days!
Share Scheme Report
Duncan Drasdo tabled his report (copies were made available at the meeting) and reported as follows:
Latest complete report is for March 2004 (reports are filed around the 20th of the following month):
Headline figures – cumulative totals since start of share scheme to March 2004.
Members 8732
Shares in share scheme 337,290
Shares held privately 2,620,922
Share Purchases £596,006
Total income £715,946 (includes membership fees and donations)
Graphs were also supplied showing:
Members at March 2004 is 8732
Source of members plus Referral Reward Scheme
Share Scheme Shares now at 337,290
Number of standing orders now at 726
Fans’ Forum Report *
Gary Hirst had tendered his apologies but had provided his report for inclusion at the meeting. This comprehensive report is posted on the web site, however, below is Gary’s main summary of the season:
Conclusion/Season Review
The Loyalty Pot System has dominated the forum this season. The club have expressed a desire that ticketing not be the predominate issue in the fixture. Gary’s response to this is two fold: one, it’s to the Clubs credit and a sign of a fully functioning forum that ticketing is being improved, especially as this was the very issue that caused many fans to lose credibility in the FF early in its history; and two, that if the issue was solved and there was a fair, effective and transparent system throughout, the issue would not need to be debated!
In many respects the issue is disproportionate to others and next season is a vital one for the forum. Issues that surround the redevelopment of the ground will play a core role. Ground configuration and OT demographics, ticket pricing, safety and safe standing will be at the fore.
Not for Sale/IMUSA Report *
A report had been supplied by IMUSA with apologies that there was no representative available on the day to present it. Sean agreed to read the report to the meeting.
NOT FOR SALE
The continued speculation during the 2003-2004 season, surrounding ownership of Manchester United and the activities of Cubic Expression and Malcolm Glazer in particular, led to the formation of an unprecedented coalition of supporters groups. IMUSA and Shareholders United along with Red Issue, Red News and United We Stand fanzines formed a united alliance in opposing the possibility of a take over and a return to private ownership. A press conference headed by representatives of all the above parties was very well received and gained a large degree of publicity and support. The leaflet drops at various home games were the largest undertaken by both IMUSA and SU and yet, again, extremely well received. The banner in the Stretford End provides a permanent reminder to would-be-suitors that United are “Not For Sale”.
It is difficult to gauge the success of the campaign in terms of whether it prevented a take-over, as the motives of those who increased their shareholdings, were and remain, unclear. However it is firmly believed, and received anecdotal evidence supports this, that Magnier and McManus were staggered to witness the level of vociferous and organised opposition. It is not however believed to be a coincidence that their tactics changed (and similarly those of Malcolm Glazer since) once United supporters voiced their anger. Indeed the most encouraging aspect of the whole campaign was the degree of support it had amongst fans. It is testament to the work of both organisations and of everyone who gives up their time for such campaigns, that we have such positive reaction from supporters. Future ownership of the club is still unclear but confidence remains that whoever may decide they want to buy Manchester United Football Club, they will have a well organised, vociferous fight on their hands.
IMUSA
With next season’s ticket price increases, the administration charge and the scandalously short time after the end of this season supporters have to renew their Season Tickets and LMTB’s, it is clear a great deal of work still has to be done to convince the club to adhere to supporters’ wishes. However, IMUSA have achieved a number of significant results this season.
The loyalty pot, whilst being far from perfect and still the subject of consternation, is a vast improvement on the ‘lottery’ of pervious years and is the direct result of continued IMUSA lobbying over a number of years.
IMUSA, in conjunction with Charlton Athletic supporters and Football Club, managed to get our allocation increased for the game at The Valley, following their local authorities decision to significantly reduce it. A similar success was achieved for the Aston Villa cup game. Yet proving more work needs to be done, arguments fell on deaf ears for the semi-final at the same ground.
United pleasingly listened to IMUSA’s suggestion that they should subsidise tickets for the Northampton cup game. A gesture that was very much appreciated, but one that could be argued was the least they could have done after agreeing to Northampton’s price increase in the first place. Nevertheless it is unlikely that previous regimes would have even listened to IMUSA’s proposal, not least implemented it.
IMUSA also lobbied hard that the proposed semi-final switch to Cardiff should take place. Again it is encouraging that they were listened to and that their intervention helped to prevent such a move.
The leaking of the Trafford Council Safety Report gave the media some tasty headlines but beneath the ‘glamorous’ stories of safety risks for supporters there are real areas of substance that IMUSA hopes will finally allow them to fight reduced allocations based on the spurious grounds of persistent standing and also develop the safe standing argument further.
IMUSA have also this season, made a number of representations to varying groups with varying degrees of success. From the Premier League to the All Party Football Group - from UEFA to the PFA. The aim is to continue the dialogue, despite often having pleas rejected.
Thanks to everyone who has helped this season. Much has been achieved over the last twelve months. The degrees of success obtained are testament to the dedication and great deal of hard work of a whole host of people. Particular thanks to Sean and Oliver for their help with the media during “Not For Sale” and to Jonathan Michie for helping co-ordinate the campaign.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Social Events
Duncan advised that there was a possibility of a SU social event at Old Trafford on 26th May to celebrate the third anniversary of the Treble. Any suggestions would be welcome.
Sam Platts
Karen advised that she would be meeting with Sam Platts management during May to discuss the possibility of SU hiring the Norseman Room for every home fixture next season. Sue Simpson suggested that a waitress service for food and drink was worthy of investigation. IMUSA have been contacted to ask if their membership would be interested in joining forces on costs. They have agreed to discuss and advise in due course.
Possible Expansion of the Stadium
The Club is conducting a feasibility study into expanding the stadium capacity by completing a second tier in the two corners of the North Stand. The question of whether SU should be looking now to influence them about new seats and ticketing prices was thought to perhaps be a matter to be taken to the Fans’ Forum and/or for IMUSA. Message boards could be a vehicle for SU members to comment.
Outgoing Committee Members
Jonathan wished to record his thanks to the outgoing Committee members Theresa Towle, Michael Crick and Sue Simpson for their welcome contributions and involvement over the years since SUAM and SU were formed and said that he hoped they would continue to be involved in other capacities and attend meetings. He also paid tribute to what he described as the unity of SU comparing it to the hostility often witnessed at other Clubs amongst their supporters’ groups.
Letter from David Gill
Jonathan confirmed he had received a letter from David Gill stating that press reports regarding places on the Board for Glazer, and Cubic Expression were totally untrue. None of the three men concerned have apparently asked for a seat on the Board. Jonathan said he thought the Club were looking for a generally independent Director to comply with Governance regulations. SU will continue to press for a seat on the Board.
Presentation
Nick Towle paid tribute to Jonathan for his time as Chair of SU and presented him with a framed cartoon on behalf of the Committee. Thanks Jonathan you have done a tremendous job!
COMMITTEE MEETING – HELD AFTER THE AGM BUSINESS
A brief meeting was held immediately after the AGM to welcome the newly elected members to the Committee, to obtain personal details from them and provide them with future meeting dates.
It was unanimously agreed to co-opt two further members onto the Committee to serve for a period of one year:
Richard Hytner – recognised as having a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills, which could prove invaluable to SU during the coming 12 months.
Steve Hunt – in recognition for his active involvement and hard work/effort on SU matters such as leafleting, designing tee-shirts, contacting supporters’ club branches, web site work, etc.
Both co-options were unanimously accepted.
Action: Karen Matthews to notify Richard Hytner
IMUSA have agreed to nominate a person to represent them at SU meetings at their AGM scheduled for 3rd June. Jules Spencer will notify Karen.
SATURDAY 8TH MAY 2004
THE NORSEMAN ROOM, SAMUEL PLATTS, TRAFFORD PARK
PRESENT
Jonathan Michie; Nick Towle; Karen Matthews; Sean Bones; Roger Brierley; Chris Baker; David Blatt; Pete Butler; Lynette Cawthra; Shirley Cawthra; Keith Cooke; Sharon Cowell; Bruce Crawford; Michael Crick; Eric Downs; Duncan Drasdo; Ian Gordon; A. Graham; Roy Graham; Malachy Halpin; Eric Halsall; Steve Hunt; Oliver Houston; John Howie; Henry Hyatt; John Kallinicos; Howard Kings; Cyril Lill; Jonathan Lord; Julian Lord; John Macgowan; Gez Mason; D. Nattan; Matthew O’Brien; Margaret Orhan; Sam Roberts; Helen Sadler; Sue Simpson; Christopher Small; Richard Stubbs; Lawrence Spencer; Theresa Towle; John Walker; Geoff Watson; Jean Watson; Paul Whatmore; Greg Whittaker; Louise Wilson; Oli Winton and Robert Winton.
APOLOGIES
Paul Brooks; Derek Burbidge; Mike Cawthra; Gary Hirst; John Hurst; Lee Shailer; Jules Spencer and Tanya Taylor.
WELCOME
Jonathan Michie welcomed everyone to the meeting and explained that he would be handing over the Chair to Nick Towle following item 3.
MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS AGM
The Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 3rd May 2003, having been previously circulated, were formally approved and accepted as a true and accurate record.
MATTERS ARISING
There were no matters arising.
RESOLUTIONS
(i) To approve the company’s annual accounts for the year ended 31st December 2003.
Jonathan Michie expressed thanks to Roger Brierley and Henry Hyatt for the huge amounts of work they have carried out; some of which had involved looking at many aspects brought about by growth, particularly the issue of VAT.
The accounts were formally and unanimously approved – copies were available for members to collect.
(ii) To re-appoint the company’s accountant.
Jonathan Michie proposed that Henry Hyatt once again be re-appointed as the company’s Accountant. His agreement sought, the resolution was passed by unanimous support. Henry was thanked for once again agreeing to fill this voluntary role.
(iii) To appoint Nick Towle as a new Director in the position of Chair and another Director as Vice-Chair in accordance with the results of the members’ ballot.
There being no other nominations for the post of Chair, Nick Towle was elected unopposed for a three year term.
A ballot having been conducted for the post of Vice Chair, the results were recorded as follows:
Candidate Number of Votes
Oliver Houston 388
Margaret Orhan 184
No votes cast 2
Oliver Houston was therefore elected to serve for a period of two years.
Both appointments were unanimously endorsed.
(iv) To confirm the election of certain Committee Members to replace those who are due to retire this year in accordance with the results of the members’ ballot.
There were eight vacancies and ten nominations had been received. A ballot having been conducted, the results were recorded as follows:
Candidate Number of Votes/Term Elected
Jonathan Michie 537 Elected for a term of three years
Eric Halsall 513 Elected for a term of three years
Tanya Taylor 467 Elected for a term of three years
Matthew O’Brien 464 Elected for a term of three years
Oliver Houston 459 Already elected Vice Chair, as above
Paul Brooks 427 Elected for a term of three years
Julian Lord 416 Elected for a term two years
Richard Stubbs 297 Elected for a term two years
Oli Winton 228 Elected for a term of one year
Richard Hytner 164
(v) To confirm the election of the Fans’ Forum Representative in accordance with the results of the members’ ballot.
A ballot having been conducted for the post of Fans’ Forum Representative of Season 2004/2005, the results were recorded as follows:
Candidate Number of Votes
Gary Hirst 481
Oli Winton 88
No Votes Cast 5
Gary Hirst was therefore duly elected to serve as the SU Representative on the Fans’ Forum for the Season 2004/2005.
Action: Karen Matthews to notify Marie Woodward at MUFC
Thanks were formally expressed to independent adjudicator Pat Crick for her valuable assistance in counting all the ballot forms.
REPORTS
(* copies made available at the meeting)
Reports were brief due to the shortage of time allocated to the meeting, but it was agreed that all would be posted onto the web site. (Copies of the reports marked * were made available at the meeting for members to take away.)
Action: Karen Matthews
Chair’s Report *
Jonathan Michie presented his report making particular reference to the following:
· The continued threat of takeover
· The continued need to recruit members
· To encourage all members who can, to join the share scheme
· To encourage those who cannot, to at least make one-off share purchases within the scheme whenever possible
· To encourage existing members of the Share Scheme to increase their monthly Standing Order if possible, and if this is not possible, then to make additional one-off purchases whenever they are able
· That urgent consideration should be given to approaching wealthy reds to encourage them to make sizeable one-off share purchases within the Share Scheme.
Jonathan explained the reason for his stepping down from the Chair and passed the meeting over to incoming Chair Nick Towle.
Financial Director’s Report *
Roger presented the first financial report since SU became a company limited by guarantee and explained that the accounts ran from the date of incorporation on 4th July 2002 to 31st December 2003.
He reported that the accounts show a surplus of £14,642, which (even allowing for the fact that this is an 18-month account) was a significant improvement on last year’s deficit. Subscriptions and donations for the period were £54,530 and Roger specifically extended his thanks to Theresa Towle for her welcome assistance in convincing Customs and Excise that SU are currently exempt from VAT. He went on to say that the balance sheet was equally healthy: SU’s assets include an investment in United shares (Cost £11,973 – Market Value at 31st December 2003 £15,368) and the company has been able to maintain satisfactory cash reserves which would enable SU to respond instantly to future threats of a takeover.
At the 2003 AGM the point had been made that at the May 2004 AGM the figures would still be three months out of date, and whether it would be possible for an informal ‘add-on’ paragraph to the end of the Financial Director’s report giving, as far as possible, a more accurate and up-to-date report of the financial situation as at May 2004. This information was provided verbally as follows: first three months £44,613 when takeover scare was at its highest. At 30th April 2004 balances were £22,851 (current account) and £5,053 (deposit account). SU owned shares amount to £19,363.
Roger concluded by expressing his thanks to Henry Hyatt both for his excellent work on the preparation of our accounts, again without remuneration, and for always making himself available for advice and assistance throughout the year.
Patrons Report *
Margaret Orhan reported that SU now has 19 Patrons with the latest additions being Alex Stepney and Paddy Crerand. Both ex-players are delighted to be involved and interviews for a future newsletter are planned imminently.
Thanks were extended to Paul Brooks for his excellent work in setting up Patrons Profiles on the website.
Quotations for embroidered badges are currently being sought.
Recruitment Report *
The year 2003/2004 has shown incredible and spectacular rise on the recruitment front. From a total of 1677 members at March 2003, to 8682 members in March 2004 - the membership has risen by over 500 % (an increase of 7005 new members in the year to March 2004).
The SU ‘Recommend a Friend’ email in particular has involved a lot more work than previously thought. Duncan Drasdo has spent over two weeks solidly programming with a team of five SU members - Tim Shaw, Darren Seamark, Paul Brooks, Gary Young and myself. There are very high hopes for the positive effects it will have in increasing SU membership in the coming year and beyond. Thanks to Duncan for his excellent work and dedication was supported by a round of applause.
Much work has been done with IMUSA in the continuing 'Not For Sale' campaign. Thanks IMUSA for all the help and support you have given SU throughout the year.
Future SU plans include:
· Getting a mail out sent to the 37,000 or so Manchester United shareholders asking them to join SU and pledge their shares in defending the club against takeover.
· Sending out and reacting positively to the demands of the SU “Recommend to a Friend” email – an email that could potentially reach millions of reds around the world.
· United websites SU banner initiative - writing to the webmasters of many United related websites asking them to host a banner ad linking to SU. On offer is an affiliate scheme whereby they will be rewarded with £1 worth of United shares for every member who joins via their website.
· Having a large SU presence on the team tour in the USA in July.
Media Report
Oliver Houston gave a verbal report on media coverage and explained that it was impossible to supply members with his usual batch of press cuttings this year, as media attention and interest had been both exceedingly high and relatively positive - the exception being the News of the World. He made particular reference to the Manchester Evening News and MUTV both of whom were reported as having been particularly supportive and having given SU good coverage.
Oliver also said the Press Conference has been successful and thanked Sean and Duncan for taking up some of the slack since he returned to live in London. He concluded by saying that inevitably something usually happens during the closed season and that everyone should try and be aware of what’s going on in case there is a need for a demo or similar. Thanks to Oliver for his tireless work during the year was supported by a round of applause.
Newsletter Report *
Theresa Towle has stepped down as Newsletter Editor, and the Editor from the June edition will be Julian Lord. Julian will be working in conjunction with Jonathan Bracey-Gibbon who has his own publishing company and designed the March edition. This design was long awaited and the newsletter now looks clean and new, more professional and more attractive to advertisers, which is essential as membership figures increase. The whole production and mail-out cost of the newsletter takes up a large portion of SU’s income. However, it is definitely a work in progress and any comments would be gratefully received. Please address them to Julian – telephone 020 7976 5033 or email juleslord@totalise.co.uk.
A journalist told Theresa that he found the SU website an incredibly useful resource on MU stories. Congratulations to Tanya and Sean and everyone else for all their postings!
Website Report
Duncan reported that the “Recommend a Friend” email was quite sophisticated and there were still a few technical issues to be resolved. He expressed his thanks to Tim Shaw for all his help on this.
The Forum and the Chat Room are both active now and encouraging members to become more involved. One enterprising member recently recruited 140 members initially through Ebay and then referring them onto the SU site.
Thanks were extended to Kathy and Peter Hargreaves for their efficient work in ensuring new members receive their membership packs within days!
Share Scheme Report
Duncan Drasdo tabled his report (copies were made available at the meeting) and reported as follows:
Latest complete report is for March 2004 (reports are filed around the 20th of the following month):
Headline figures – cumulative totals since start of share scheme to March 2004.
Members 8732
Shares in share scheme 337,290
Shares held privately 2,620,922
Share Purchases £596,006
Total income £715,946 (includes membership fees and donations)
Graphs were also supplied showing:
Members at March 2004 is 8732
Source of members plus Referral Reward Scheme
Share Scheme Shares now at 337,290
Number of standing orders now at 726
Fans’ Forum Report *
Gary Hirst had tendered his apologies but had provided his report for inclusion at the meeting. This comprehensive report is posted on the web site, however, below is Gary’s main summary of the season:
Conclusion/Season Review
The Loyalty Pot System has dominated the forum this season. The club have expressed a desire that ticketing not be the predominate issue in the fixture. Gary’s response to this is two fold: one, it’s to the Clubs credit and a sign of a fully functioning forum that ticketing is being improved, especially as this was the very issue that caused many fans to lose credibility in the FF early in its history; and two, that if the issue was solved and there was a fair, effective and transparent system throughout, the issue would not need to be debated!
In many respects the issue is disproportionate to others and next season is a vital one for the forum. Issues that surround the redevelopment of the ground will play a core role. Ground configuration and OT demographics, ticket pricing, safety and safe standing will be at the fore.
Not for Sale/IMUSA Report *
A report had been supplied by IMUSA with apologies that there was no representative available on the day to present it. Sean agreed to read the report to the meeting.
NOT FOR SALE
The continued speculation during the 2003-2004 season, surrounding ownership of Manchester United and the activities of Cubic Expression and Malcolm Glazer in particular, led to the formation of an unprecedented coalition of supporters groups. IMUSA and Shareholders United along with Red Issue, Red News and United We Stand fanzines formed a united alliance in opposing the possibility of a take over and a return to private ownership. A press conference headed by representatives of all the above parties was very well received and gained a large degree of publicity and support. The leaflet drops at various home games were the largest undertaken by both IMUSA and SU and yet, again, extremely well received. The banner in the Stretford End provides a permanent reminder to would-be-suitors that United are “Not For Sale”.
It is difficult to gauge the success of the campaign in terms of whether it prevented a take-over, as the motives of those who increased their shareholdings, were and remain, unclear. However it is firmly believed, and received anecdotal evidence supports this, that Magnier and McManus were staggered to witness the level of vociferous and organised opposition. It is not however believed to be a coincidence that their tactics changed (and similarly those of Malcolm Glazer since) once United supporters voiced their anger. Indeed the most encouraging aspect of the whole campaign was the degree of support it had amongst fans. It is testament to the work of both organisations and of everyone who gives up their time for such campaigns, that we have such positive reaction from supporters. Future ownership of the club is still unclear but confidence remains that whoever may decide they want to buy Manchester United Football Club, they will have a well organised, vociferous fight on their hands.
IMUSA
With next season’s ticket price increases, the administration charge and the scandalously short time after the end of this season supporters have to renew their Season Tickets and LMTB’s, it is clear a great deal of work still has to be done to convince the club to adhere to supporters’ wishes. However, IMUSA have achieved a number of significant results this season.
The loyalty pot, whilst being far from perfect and still the subject of consternation, is a vast improvement on the ‘lottery’ of pervious years and is the direct result of continued IMUSA lobbying over a number of years.
IMUSA, in conjunction with Charlton Athletic supporters and Football Club, managed to get our allocation increased for the game at The Valley, following their local authorities decision to significantly reduce it. A similar success was achieved for the Aston Villa cup game. Yet proving more work needs to be done, arguments fell on deaf ears for the semi-final at the same ground.
United pleasingly listened to IMUSA’s suggestion that they should subsidise tickets for the Northampton cup game. A gesture that was very much appreciated, but one that could be argued was the least they could have done after agreeing to Northampton’s price increase in the first place. Nevertheless it is unlikely that previous regimes would have even listened to IMUSA’s proposal, not least implemented it.
IMUSA also lobbied hard that the proposed semi-final switch to Cardiff should take place. Again it is encouraging that they were listened to and that their intervention helped to prevent such a move.
The leaking of the Trafford Council Safety Report gave the media some tasty headlines but beneath the ‘glamorous’ stories of safety risks for supporters there are real areas of substance that IMUSA hopes will finally allow them to fight reduced allocations based on the spurious grounds of persistent standing and also develop the safe standing argument further.
IMUSA have also this season, made a number of representations to varying groups with varying degrees of success. From the Premier League to the All Party Football Group - from UEFA to the PFA. The aim is to continue the dialogue, despite often having pleas rejected.
Thanks to everyone who has helped this season. Much has been achieved over the last twelve months. The degrees of success obtained are testament to the dedication and great deal of hard work of a whole host of people. Particular thanks to Sean and Oliver for their help with the media during “Not For Sale” and to Jonathan Michie for helping co-ordinate the campaign.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Social Events
Duncan advised that there was a possibility of a SU social event at Old Trafford on 26th May to celebrate the third anniversary of the Treble. Any suggestions would be welcome.
Sam Platts
Karen advised that she would be meeting with Sam Platts management during May to discuss the possibility of SU hiring the Norseman Room for every home fixture next season. Sue Simpson suggested that a waitress service for food and drink was worthy of investigation. IMUSA have been contacted to ask if their membership would be interested in joining forces on costs. They have agreed to discuss and advise in due course.
Possible Expansion of the Stadium
The Club is conducting a feasibility study into expanding the stadium capacity by completing a second tier in the two corners of the North Stand. The question of whether SU should be looking now to influence them about new seats and ticketing prices was thought to perhaps be a matter to be taken to the Fans’ Forum and/or for IMUSA. Message boards could be a vehicle for SU members to comment.
Outgoing Committee Members
Jonathan wished to record his thanks to the outgoing Committee members Theresa Towle, Michael Crick and Sue Simpson for their welcome contributions and involvement over the years since SUAM and SU were formed and said that he hoped they would continue to be involved in other capacities and attend meetings. He also paid tribute to what he described as the unity of SU comparing it to the hostility often witnessed at other Clubs amongst their supporters’ groups.
Letter from David Gill
Jonathan confirmed he had received a letter from David Gill stating that press reports regarding places on the Board for Glazer, and Cubic Expression were totally untrue. None of the three men concerned have apparently asked for a seat on the Board. Jonathan said he thought the Club were looking for a generally independent Director to comply with Governance regulations. SU will continue to press for a seat on the Board.
Presentation
Nick Towle paid tribute to Jonathan for his time as Chair of SU and presented him with a framed cartoon on behalf of the Committee. Thanks Jonathan you have done a tremendous job!
COMMITTEE MEETING – HELD AFTER THE AGM BUSINESS
A brief meeting was held immediately after the AGM to welcome the newly elected members to the Committee, to obtain personal details from them and provide them with future meeting dates.
It was unanimously agreed to co-opt two further members onto the Committee to serve for a period of one year:
Richard Hytner – recognised as having a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills, which could prove invaluable to SU during the coming 12 months.
Steve Hunt – in recognition for his active involvement and hard work/effort on SU matters such as leafleting, designing tee-shirts, contacting supporters’ club branches, web site work, etc.
Both co-options were unanimously accepted.
Action: Karen Matthews to notify Richard Hytner
IMUSA have agreed to nominate a person to represent them at SU meetings at their AGM scheduled for 3rd June. Jules Spencer will notify Karen.