The local businessmen who individually invested money in Hereford FC to give the club a solid financial base to build from when it was formed, have today commented on the current situation at Edgar Street.
In a joint statement, Mark Blandford, Mark Ellis, Nigel Edmondson, Mike Roberts and Rob Crawford said:
'While, like all our fellow supporters, we are disappointed with the club's recent results and our current league position, we continue to be appreciative and fully supportive of the hard work being done by the Directors and staff at Edgar Street. The long hours put in – on a voluntary basis in the case of the Directors – should not be under-played and the success the club has enjoyed would not have been possible without their dedication.
No-one can deny that this is probably the first period of extended difficulty the club has faced since being formed, which is why it is more important than ever that fans stick together and offer the best possible support to the players on the field.
'We are all confident that things will begin to improve soon and it is worth remembering that the Board's prudent financial management over the past three seasons has ensured the club retains a strong financial base.
'This means that the option of making additional resources available for the playing budget is one the Directors can look at if they believe it is necessary, and that it won't affect the longer-term sustainability of the club.
'As supporters of Hereford FC, we have been spoilt over the past three seasons. We now find ourselves competing against teams who are not only a match for us in terms of their fanbase, but also have far greater experience at this level. Despite this, we are confident the corner will be turned and that soon we will all be able to start looking up the table again.
'Finally, we'd like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the vital work that our fantastic volunteers do on a matchday and beyond. On behalf of the five of us, and all Hereford FC supporters, thank you for everything you do.'