Alfreton unveil new American ownership as Bradley steps down

ALFRETON Town owner and chairman Wayne Bradley has stepped down after 27 years, selling the club to an American consortium headed by 27-year-old William Rush.

- By COLSTON CRAWFORD

Little is known of the new owner - there has not even been a picture of him released with the club's statement - but he is promising to meet supporters at an open forum on July 1.

Rush, who lives in Puerto Rico, does say in an introductory letter that he has Derbyshire connections in an "ancestor", David Rushe, whose Victoria Cross, won during the Indian Mutiny in 1858, is displayed in Derby Museum.

Bradley will remain with the club in an advisory role and as a director and steps down as the longest-serving chairman in the National League, guiding the Reds through several layers of the non-League pyramid to National League North, in which they play now.

"I see Alfreton Town as a club with remarkable heritage, potential and an incredibly passionate supporter base," said Rush in a statement issued yesterday.

"Wayne is a terrific person who has earned the respect of the entire fan base and club for his strong moral voice and community spirit and, as a man of shared values, I am grateful he is staying on."

Bradley said: "I want to thank all of the community and fans for the incredible loyalty shown over the past 27 years, through every challenge and triumph during my tenure as chairman.

"I look forward to the continuance of that support to the new owners who, I believe, will take on the task of elevating the club on to new levels, to make us all proud."

The new owners say they are "deeply committed to preserving Alfreton's core identity while making strategic enhancements to strengthen the squad.

"Immediate initiatives include the creation of a dedicated academy and professional development programme aimed at nurturing local talent and securing the club's long-term future.