1. Apologies for absence
Katrina, Colin
2. Minutes of last meeting and matters arising
The presentation of the September Player Of The Month award was a success with John Bennett, one of the fans who made the journey to Grimsby, doing the honours.
3. Treasurers report
The Trusts balance currently stands at £25,195. A payment of £840 was recently made to the club for last seasons community coaching. The next match signs have cost £235 so far and £88 has been set aside for the prize for this seasons Prediction League. A total of £1,275 has been raised since the start of July through membership renewals.
4. Membership
Bill reported that the Trust currently has 212 members although this doesnt include renewals that were due in September and October. Junior memberships continue to be acquired at an increased rate with any junior nominated to present the Player Of The Month Award being offered 6 months free membership.
5. Liaising with local companies
Elite Positive Fitness is the latest local business to offer discounts to Trust members thanks to Colins efforts. There has already been quite an uptake from supporters and it is hoped that these initiatives will boost membership in the long term, as well as promoting the club in the community.
6. Coach Travel
The coaches have run at a net surplus of £42 so far this season. At the time of the meeting 24 were confirmed for the Tamworth coach which will definitely be running. Phil has begun to make enquiries regarding the weekend in Bristol towards the end of the season.
7. Cooperation with the club
Noel had been in touch with Haydn who stated that the floodlights will be installed as quickly as possible and that there is no need for alarm. The Trust will push for an official press release so that supporters can be kept up to date with developments. With regards to this seasons community coaching it was agreed that the Trust cannot commit funds until a clearer timescale for the installation of the floodlights is known.
8. Fundraising
The Race Night will now take place early in the new year with the 17th January the likely date. The buy a brick scheme would possibly consist of plaques that would be displayed on the wall at the back of the club shop. Any 50/50 draw is unlikely at the moment as it would clash with the clubs Golden Goal competition.
9. Other Trust events
Gary Brabin will be asked about taking part in a meet the manager session. Being a popular figure the Trust is sure this would be a well attended event and is keen to build a rapport with what will hopefully be a long term appointment.
10. Results of Questionnaire on attendances
A total of 21 replies were received to the questionnaire which asked supporters for their opinions of why gates have dropped and what can be done to improve them. The main factors were seen as the quality of football and the infrastructure of the club. It was agreed that attracting the youngsters of the town to watch Southport was a key issue and this could be a long term project for the Trust.
11. Any other business
None.
12. Dates of next meeting
Tuesday 18th November - Board Tuesday 16th December - Members
