The Leeds United Supporters Trust tonight held a meeting on their ongoing Campaign For Change protests, focusing on this weekend’s march ahead of the Brighton game (starting in Leeds City Square @ 13:15)

LUST On Investment Statement

  • It was made clear at the start of the meeting that investment discussion would be kept to a minimum this time round, however, the Supporters Trust confirmed that they have received responses from potential investors, including local people and potential consortia.
  • There are groups from overseas willing to help create an investment prospectus, outlining the huge potential of the club. The Trust are happy to work with these groups and individuals to collate information that can be used to attract potential investors.
  • Trust members feel Ken Bates’ claim that “there is no alternative” is nonsense, but the only way to prove that is if someone with the relevant wealth admits publicly his desire to either invest in, or purchase Leeds United.
  • One of the parties interested in Leeds United during 2007 administration are still interested. LUST will be pursuing this interest.

Campaign For Change March

  • West Yorkshire Police slightly concerned about potential for trouble ahead of this weekends march but are supportive of peaceful protest.
  • The Supporters Trust are keen to stress the importance of a peaceful protest.
  • LUST have tasked an “independent legal observer” to look out for potential trouble makers and ascertain whether these are Trust members or random members of the public looking for trouble.
  • March will end at the East Stand. Supporters asked to refrain from heading around to the other stands.
  • Strictly no alcohol on the march by order of the West Yorkshire Police. This will be confiscated.
  • Protest considered an important momentum building exercise. Aim is to raise awareness of disillusioned fans. There will be press in attendance.

Moving Forwards

  • Media coverage (Sky Sports, The Times, BBC, YEP) so far considered successful. Going forward, getting the supporters message out to the media is considered key. LUST confident media interest will continue to grow.
  • No need to lie about or “spin” information. Putting out the facts to counter Bates’ claims is more important.
  • LUST hoping to announce high-profile political backing in the “very near future”. Also hoping to announce celebrity backing.

Other Points Of Interest

  • LUST have heard from Elland Road staff that the club has been inundated with season ticket refund requests (on renewals) following the sacking of Simon Grayson. There is a “cooling off” period where supporters are entitled to a refund.
  • Trust membership approaching 3,000. Now the 9th biggest Supporters Group in the country.
  • Nigel Martyn (honorary LUST chairman) is “as passionate” about Leeds United and the Campaign For Change as LUST’s Chairman.
  • LUST enquired about advertising at Elland Road (such as player sponsorship). A meeting was set-up with Leeds United, but the advertising representative for the club failed to show.

Click here to visit the Leeds United Supporters Trust website for further information on the Campaign For Change.