Browse Sections

• Salford City Reds
• Local football
• Local cricket

New Lions deal set in concrete!

31/10/2002

SWINTON Lions have dismissed rumours that they are in financial crisis - but have admitted that savings will have to be made during the new campaign.

And Advertiser Sport can exclusively reveal that the club do not plan to replace Swinton stalwart Tony Barrow, who stepped down from his role as chief executive at the beginning of October.

Swinton announced on Wednesday morning that the day-to-day affairs of the Lions will be run by a management committee, in a bid to save much-needed cash.

The Lions will be overseen by general company secretary and major shareholder Dave Jones, with the Supporters Trust having a 10 per cent stake in the club.

But with a new five-figure sponsorship deal secured with Concrete TS Ltd., the Lions remain upbeat about their financial future.

Steve Wild, one of the directors of Swinton Lions, said: "The general mood at the club is very upbeat and positive, and rumours of financial instability are totally unfounded."

Wild said that the club planned to work closely with the Supporters Trust, who had invested £18,500 in the club during the past six months.

He also said that the Lions were soon to begin formal negotiations with Salford City FC regarding a long-term lease at Moor Lane.

Meanwhile, coach Phil Veivers has begun talks with prospective players for next season's squad.

Veivers, who has been coach at the Lions for nearly a year after taking over from Tony Humphries, is still thrashing out terms with players he wishes to retain or sign.

The new Lions replica kit is now on sale at the club shop, and season tickets go on sale from December 1, with prices to be announced.