Change of control at Sandgrounders

SOUTHPORT FC's new owners have moved to clarify the situation regarding the running of the football club.

- BY RICHARD PARTINGTON

The Sandgrounders are now under the control of local businessmen David Cunningham and Kieran Malone with the formal completion of their takeover delayed by The Charities Commission investigation into previous owners, The Big Help Group.

Though the takeover is yet to be rubberstamped, the duo have already installed a new management team at the club, with Neil Danns and assistant Mark Duffy taking charge last week.

With a manager announced but question marks over who was running the club, Cunningham penned an open letter to fans, published on the club's official website, which clarified the situation. It read:

“Dear Supporters,

“We want to inform you of recent developments regarding the ownership of Southport Football Club. As many of you know, The Big Help Group, along with Peter Mitchell and the rest of their board, are no longer involved with the club. Liam Watson and Steven Porter remain as Directors.

“The ownership of the club has now been transferred to myself (David Cunningham) and Kieran Malone. We are preparing a more detailed statement and look forward to meeting with you all soon to discuss our plans.

“In the meantime, we want to clarify the current situation.