“You can help us survive”

Last updated : 26 June 2003 By The Chairman
The Latics have launched a desperate appeal to all fans and local businesses. The “You can help us survive” initiative is a scheme that the club is hoping will give them some breathing space and avoid them going into liquidation which is a distinct possibility this Friday 27th. June. Staff wages are due this Friday.


Businesses across the north of England are being asked to contribute to a rescue package and it is hoped that they can raise £250,000 to stave off the wolves. The idea is to enable Athletic to continue operating long enough in hope that new investors can be found. Sean Jarvis said, “The position is very grave and, unless we can get help from outside, time will run out on securing our future. We won’t give up because the fight isn’t over yet, but this appeal couldn’t be more urgent.”


The club shop has been re-opened just to sell a book 'GET THOSE SHEEP OFF THE PITCH' to help raise some of the money. £40,000 will be raised if the full batch is sold and 80 books at £10 were sold on the first day. The newly-formed supporters’ trust which will receive the money which will then be handed over to the club. Marketing manager Jarvis (pictured) continued, “The book is a token gesture to say thank you — it is the £10 donation which is important. We hope to raise £40,000 from fans and, in turn, that might start a chain reaction throughout the town. Businesses are vital in getting behind us. The response has been promising and I am holding meetings with everyone we can think of. It all boils down to the next two days for survival. I would urge all fans to focus on raising as much money as possible in the next 48 hours to benefit the Supporters' Trust. Whilst I appreciate the anger levelled at Chris Moore, please focus on raising £10 or £20 wherever you can and by whichever method. If that means coming down to the Club then so be it. Hopefully that way we can raise £250,000 to help this campaign and give the Club a fighting chance for survival."