Football fans to become owners of non-league club

Fans of a non-league football club are set to become its new owners, officials have revealed.

Joining the likes of AFC Wimbledon and FC United of Manchester, they claimed Bilston Town would will be the first fan-owned club in the West Midlands.

The club will become a community benefit society and will launch the sale of memberships at their lunchtime home game against Paget Rangers on Saturday.

"Becoming an owner of Bilston Town FC will help towards protecting and securing its future," club chair Denise Frankham said.

Each member will be issued with a share in the company owning the football club, giving the holder one vote on how it is run, officials added.

Membership packages range from £10 to £1,000 with businesses invited to get involved as well.

Shareholders will receive a share certificate and other benefits including an owners' pin badge, depending on which membership package they buy, the club said.

"We have always believed our club belonged to our fans and community," said Ms Frankham.

"Our decision to convert to a legal form of community ownership is the best way to ensure that will remain the case."

The club secured a new 35-year lease in 2022, which they said meant they had "stability for the future" and could grow and apply for further funding for projects.

Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.