Carlisle United’s newest director believes the club is poised to “grow and grow” as part of the new era at Brunton Park.
Matt Spooner was this week confirmed as supporters’ trust CUOSC’s new representative on United’s board.
He replaces Nigel Davidson, who was voted off the trust’s own board in CUOSC’s elections this week.
Spooner said that, whilst it is important to recognise the work of his predecessors on United’s 1921 board, there was now the chance for fans to play their part in the new “buzz” surrounding the club after the Piataks’ takeover.
He believes the American owners want to embrace supporters and CUOSC’s representation with directors at the club remains a key part of that.
“First and foremost it is important that I recognise the work put in by Nigel Davidson, Jim Mitchell and those that have previously helped us be where we are today,” Spooner said.
“The relationship between the club and CUOSC is significantly improved on where it was historically.
“This is an incredibly exciting time for Carlisle United and our fans. We’ve all seen the buzz around the city and I am thrilled I have the opportunity to represent our members on the board of Carlisle United.
“Bring able to help to do my little bit to continue to progress this amazing football club is an honour.
“Castle Sports Group [the Piataks’ business which has taken 90 per cent control of CUFC Holdings] were keen on fan involvement from the get-go and I am keen to get to work on behalf of fans making our club grow and grow.”
Spooner’s appointment to United’s 1921 operational board is dependent on him passing the EFL’s owners’ and directors’ test, likewise CUOSC’ newly-appointed alternate 1921 director, Dave Noble.
They will replace Davidson and Carol Wilson in the respective positions after the long-serving trust board members did not gain enough voted to be re-elected for another three-year term.
Instead, the four vacancies on the CUOSC board were claimed by Claire Winder, Mike Denovellis, Ross Parkinson and Martin Robson.
Davidson and Wilson continue in their 1921 roles until Spooner and Noble pass the EFL test.
The trust have also confirmed that Dan MacLennan is now their new chair, replacing Spooner in the role. He had previously been vice-chair - a title which now goes to newly-elected board member Claire Winder.
Billy Atkinson remains CUOSC's representative on United's Holdings company board.
The trust, at its AGM, added that a process of “rebranding” can now resume after it had been paused during the takeover process, during which CUOSC played a key part in the courting of the Piataks.
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