Albion go back to Forthbank

Jun 6 2012 by Donald Morton, Stirling Observer Wednesday

STIRLING Albion’s deal with DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro to rename the Forthbank ground is over.

The DoubleTree by Hilton sponsorship was originally for a one-year period only but both parties agreed to a year’s extension.

The outcome of recent discussions between the club and general manager of the DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro, Robert Glashan, was a mutual agreement that it was time to change direction.

Albion’s operation director Stuart Brown, said: “We enjoy a fantastic relationship with Robert and his staff could not have been more helpful.

“Our two flagship events – the Billy Bremner Memorial and Annfield Revisited Dinners – were superbly handled by the hotel and very successful for the club.

“Both parties are in full agreement that it was the right time to move on and I would like to thank everyone at the DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro for the support and friendship extended to SAFC over the past couple of years.”

He added: “Looking ahead, I am delighted to be able to report that the club is close to finalising the detail on a couple of new and lucrative sponsorship and partnership initiatives, with several more in the pipeline.

Business

“Whilst there is never a time for complacency in running a business, particularly a football club, I’m able to confirm that, through the hard work of the club executive throughout the last 12 months, we have established a firm foundation to build on and that we are heading in the right direction.”

Robert Glashan said: “We would like to extend sincere thanks for all the hard work and effort that both parties have shown in the last two years and wish Stirling Albion Football Club a successful and prosperous future. It has been great working with everyone at the club and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their professionalism, friendship, drive and enthusiasm.

“Hopefully, we may have the opportunity to work together again in years to come.”

The club is gearing up for the new season with the news that they will prepare for the Third Division with a trip up north to play two pre-season friendly matches against Highland League opposition.

First up is a meeting with Strathspey Thistle in Grantown-on-Spey on Friday, July 20, kick-off 7.45pm, with a game the following day against Brora Rangers at Dudgeon Park.

It’s a route taken back in 2003 under Allan Moore when they travelled to Buckie and Keith, winning both games – and the Binos will be hoping it’s a lucky omen after they went on to win promotion at the end of the 2003-04 season.

There are sure to be a number of fans heading up to the Highlands and to get them in the mood, the club is reminding them that season tickets are still on sale at the Forthbank office.

Striker

Tomorrow (Thursday) the office is open from 4-7pm and prices are as follows: Adults £150; Seniors (aged 65 and over) £100; Students (with valid ID) £100; Children U17 £30.

Manager Greig McDonald and coaches Shaun Fagan and Marc McCulloch are in Largs this week undergoing their UEFA "B" License course but on their return, it looks like Albion may have a new face appearing at Forthbank.

Stuart said: “We’re close to signing a striker but I don’t want to name names at the moment.”