Moore hopes to buy back Boundary Park

Last updated : 09 January 2002 By Dave Moore
Latics' Chairman Chris Moore along with Director Alan Hardy and Head Coach, Mick Wadsworth met with the Club's Shareholders in a question and answer session. In what proved to be a popular and successful event, the panel spoken openly and candidly about a number of issues surrounding the Club.

One of the most debated topics was that of the purchase of Boundary Park. Chris Moore was quick to point out that, whilst he could not put timescales on it, he was very interested in buying Boundary Park. He also elaborated and talked about possible plans to develop the stadium and eventually increase capacity in tandem with success of the Club.

Racism, in particular incidents at away grounds, was also mentioned. Whilst the Club was commended for its proactive activities at home, the audience was interested to find out what officials were doing to try and eliminate the problem for our travelling fans. Alan Hardy was quick to reply stating that the Club was in conversations with the Police and actively looking to address the problem. He commented that a press release was due to be released shortly calling for genuine Latics fans to try and do their bit and should they witness racism at away games they should report the incident to a steward or the Police at the game.

He reassured the audience the Club would not rest on its laurels and will continue its fight against racism. Building on this point the audience then posed the question as to what the Club is doing to try and integrate people form ethnic minorities. Alan Hardy stated that through its 'Unity in the Community' scheme, every effort was underway and this was a gradual process, for example the donation of 1500 tickets to the multi-culturalinitiative - 'Give Children a Chance' run by Oldham Athletic, the Police and OMBC.

Mick Wadsworth, did not escape questions from the Shareholders. He was asked on his opinions on youth development and formations of play. The Head Coach insisted that his strategy was to build for long term. He quoted that the likes of Murray, at 25, were the future of the Club. He also commented that the youth set up at Boundary Park was vital and he was working closely with the coaches on developing this area. The event finished on a positive note when a member of the audience welcomed Chris Moore to the Club and praised the Chairman's efforts, endeavours and aspirations in trying to improve the success of Oldham Athletic.