Thanks for that H
Ian, I have not heard of that name but then that means nothing as we have only been involved with the club since February.
I have been a friend of Ray Trew for about 7 years as well as working for him. Ray took over the club whilst it was in a period of turmoil due to the Munto Ownwership, this topic will be covered on tv later this month or in February by Panorama. They have been filming down at the ground and investigating the wrong doings of the previous owners and also reporting on the way that the club has and is moving forward whilst under the control of Ray.
You are correct in saying that there is a family atmosphere at the club and that is the main reason I've taken to them so much. The commercial side of things was shocking to say the least and we are now in the middle of an education process and introducing new staff and procedures to ensure the club has a stable finacial platform to call upon. We have worked hard in introducing partnerships such as 'vision express' Co-operative Group' 'Carlsberg' '3663' etc. These corporate companies see the value in what we are trying to achieve and support us very hard, results such as knocking Sunderland out of the cup is the reward because now their name will be advertised to bigger clubs and tv is the bonus.
I have now removed myself from the commercial side of things as we also have major problems in banqueting and more so tea bar areas. Quality of service has been suffering due to the lack of it but again I have managed to educate staff that cheaper is not the way forward. Both myself and Ray have discussed this at length and the message we promote to all staff is that, the most important thing to our supporters is the matchday experience and one of the few things we have control over. We endeavour to compete with other clubs on price of food etc but make sure that they receive it in a way that is not only professional but good quality and clean from trained uniformed staff that do things with a smile. I want to make sure that even if the team lose 10-0, that the supporter will leave the stadium having had a great experience either way.
The supporters of Notts County FC have had their club turned upside down over the last few years and our aim is to bring a matchday experience not to be forgotten and finacial stability that will help to move the club forward. Ray had the target of reaching the play off's this season and at times it seemed unachievable but with the introduction of Paul Ince it seems to have put us back on track.
I suppose all I can say is "Watch this space", NCFC has a truely great pedigree and history to share with people that enjoy football, over the next couple of years we will once again cement it into the minds of our sport for years to come.
Sorry for banging on but a little insight to the world of Notts County FC shouldn't offend anyone. (Only Forest Supporters)
