Trust in Charlton

The concept of a Charlton supporters' trust could move closer to reality this week as interested fans are invited to attend a second meeting.

Members of Supporters' Direct, a funded organisation which assists with the establishment and development of supporter groups to achieve responsible, democratic representation within their clubs, addressed around 50 Addicks fans at the start of August.

And on Tuesday (7.30pm), supporters will reconvene at Charlton Conservative Club, a stone's throw away from The Valley on Charlton Church Lane.

Former elected supporters' director Ben Hayes explained: "A trust is not an easy or quick solution to all the challenges that face clubs, but it is a model that has worked well elsewhere.

"From the likes of Manchester United and Glasgow Rangers to Lincoln City and Brentford, the trust model has been taken up.

"A Charlton trust would have its own aims. What those aims are will be decided by the fans themselves, but being Charlton fans, we will no doubt do it in our own special way."

He added: "Among the topics discussed in the first meeting were the aims and objectives of any new trust, and the structure it should take.

"The [next] meeting is open to all Addicks fans, whether they wish to undertake some involvement or simply have an interest in the concept of a trust.

"All Charlton fans, and especially those who have their doubts or want to question the idea of setting up a trust, are welcome."