Press Release Article

Sunday 22nd July 2001: Mass rally postponed, but Supporters' Trust concerns about United continue

A MASS Carlisle United supporters' rally in Bitts Park next weekend has been postponed because of the difficulty in getting keynote speakers and fans of other clubs to attend at short notice. The rally was to have been organised by the Carlisle and Cumbria United Independent Supporters' Trust as a way of demonstrating the concerns of the community at current events at Brunton Park.

Newly appointed Trust chairman Mike Corry said: "There would have been problems obtaining key speakers at short notice during the peak holiday period. Supporters Direct also indicated that supporters from elsewhere in the country would be more likely to attend a later event." There will be a public meeting of the Trust at Carlisle's Sands Centre on September 1, the day of the home fixture against Rochdale.

Mr Corry said the Trust remained "deeply concerned" about the ongoing events at Brunton Park and welcomed initiatives like the News and Star petition.
He said the Trust would continue voicing those worries and try to assist in effecting a change of ownership at United. Some weeks ago CCUIST members indicated by a 3-1 majority that, among other actions, they would boycott selected home matches. Mr Corry underlined the personal dilemma being faced by United fans as the new season fast approaches.

The said: "The Trust Board feels that, while the majority of our members have said they will be boycotting, the Board itself, while respecting and empathising with the majority view, has not and will not call for a boycott of Carlisle United matches, season tickets or merchandise." He said: "These are personal decisions and difficult ones at that. We would not be so arrogant as topresume that we can ordain or even recommend what individuals should do."

Mr Corry said: "Carlisle United supporters have had enough of the present regime, but some feel their loyalty to the team is still pre-eminent. We respect such views and admire their loyalty." Views amongst Board members even differ. Some will be going to matches and some, perhaps the majority, will not. Mr Corry said that, whatever their views, "we must remain Carlisle and Cumbria United."