Impasse (From Barry And District News)

Impasse

THE "Opinion" column on Barry Town (March 3) emphasised the impasse between the owner of Barry Town, Mr Lovering and the Council.

Unfortunately such an impasse also exists between Mr Lovering and the supporters. Indeed Mr Lovering has gone so far as to commit himself in print that the supporters committee is "selfish and nave." The well-attended meeting, notably not at the clubhouse, highlighted the problems that now exist.

When Mr Lovering bought the club out of administration, effectively the extensive clubhouse, a thriving bar trade, changing rooms, and skittles alley became his. As a successful property speculator this was an excellent buy.

Today even the most successful of football clubs expect some money from the social side to be diverted to the football team. This Mr Lovering refuses to do.

This is where it gets interesting.

Since he controls all aspects of Barry Town, it is he who has the debt to the Council.

While it is agreed that the District Auditor has produced a ridiculously high figure for the usage of Jenner Park, and as it appears that the Council has dug its heels in over the large debt, then eventually court proceedings will be taken by the council.

And if the money is not paid, then like all individuals would find, the bailiffs will call. Of course such proceedings usually drag on for some time.

In the meantime if an alternative Barry Town team is created then the problems are immense.

If the team would play at Jenner Park then Mr Lovering would be in his rights to stop such a team using changing room facilities. The team would probably start in the Premier Division of the Barry and District League, and this would take several years to build up into higher leagues.

It also seems to me that the current football management would probably prefer to stay with Mr Lovering since they seem at least to be able to talk to him.

My conclusion to this letter is to stay with it, and see what happens. It may be a miracle, but I feel that there may be agreement over the debt eventually.

G E Thomas

Gladstone Road

Barry