Global support for Binos’ campaign

Jun 10 2009 by Donald Morton, Stirling Observer Wednesday

THE campaign to buy Stirling Albion is attracting support from around the world.

Founding director Archie Gourlay’s grandson Gordon, who lives in Russia, heard about the campaign last week and signed up immediately.

“I might be miles away but the Binos remain close to my heart,” said Gordon.

And in Thailand, a seven-a-side competition featuring a team of Thai expats met a team from Japan – and opposing players discovered they had both signed up to buy the Binos!

Speaking at the Scottish Footballers Direct Conference at Stirling University, UEFA’s William Gaillard announced a change to the structures of the association to allow fans involvement in the running of their clubs.

Addressing representatives of fans from around 30 clubs, Mr Gaillard spoke of the changing attitude towards fans representation in the game.

The www.buystirlingalbion.org.uk spokesperson Paul Goodwin said: “The concept of community ownership is a compelling one and it is fantastic that UEFA recognises the important role that fans can play in the running of their local club.

Nearer to home, the campaign team have had support from the Thistles, with a stall set up in the shopping centre over the weekend. M&S provided backing for the team during their stint resulting in their biggest sales day since the launch.

Paul added: “After a somewhat slow start locally we are now really motoring and this week we will be at the Thistles Centre again, at Stirling Agricultural Show and at the Kippen Fayre.

“We are urgently calling for the 165 people who volunteered to help at our launch night to get in touch. We need staff to man the Thistles Centre stall, leafleting activities, visiting small businesses, attending events, fundraising and those with PC skills to get posting on forums..”

If you can assist, email stevenl@buystirlingalbion.org.uk

Meanwhile, Stirling Albion Supporters Club is introducing a new style membership for the 2009-10 season.

Fans can now purchase a Gold Membership costing £120 for adults and £60 for concessions (children under 16 years old and OAPs) – effectively a season ticket for the supporters’ bus as it pays for all trips to all league away games (not including Alloa, Clyde and Stenhousemuir).

A Silver Membership, similar to the standard Supporters Club membership can be purchased for £5.

If you buy your gold membership before July 31 you will receive a £10 discount.

For more details, contact James Stewart from the Stirling Albion Supporters Club on 07748 823165 between 5pm and 8pm Sunday to Wednesday, 10am to 8pm on Thursday and Friday. You can also contact Stef Torrance on 01259 219570 or Jimmy Watson on 01786 475573.