Joint Statement from Lynn Ready & Barry Wake
As we complete our first week as Joint Chairs of Whickham FC, it’s already been an incredibly busy and productive start. We’ve held meetings with a wide range of people across the club and with key stakeholders, and we’re grateful for the warm support we’ve received.
A Strong Team Behind the Scenes
We are fortunate to have a committed Executive and Management Committee behind us. Their support gives us a strong platform to lead from, and we look forward to working closely with them as we drive the club forward.
On‑Field Focus
Our immediate priority is clear: supporting our First Team management, Dan Crooks, Dave Palmer & Dan Craggs, in the fight to avoid relegation. The management have the full backing of both of us, as well as the entire Executive Committee. The drive, desire, and commitment are there from the management team and the players. our job is to ensure they have everything they need to succeed.
We know the league table isn’t where we want it to be. Sitting bottom of the First Division is not where this club belongs. But with 13 league games still to play and our continued involvement in the League Cup, there is everything to fight for. We firmly believe we can turn this around, although we know today’s away game against top‑of‑the‑league Shildon will be a tough test.
Progress Across the Club
Our Reserves are also progressing well, with a Cup Semi‑Final today and strong development off the field. Keith, Steven, Freddie, and Kevin have our full support as they continue to build momentum.
Off the pitch, we’re proud of the improvements already made this season. We’ve upgraded the dugouts and installed a brand‑new ground sound system to enhance the matchday experience. An FA Grant covered 70% of the project, with the remaining 30% generously funded by former Chairman Ben Riley of First Mortgage support we are extremely grateful for.
We have also secured a new kitchen for the Corner Café from Howdens Game Changer grant through the FA, with a new kitchen installation planned for early next month. A huge thank you to one of our own, former Club Captain Ross Peareth of RCP Home Improvements, who will be fitting this for us. We’d also like to thank Paul Cavanagh of Furniture Clinic, another former Whickham player, who is designing a new seating area for our hospitality room. The ongoing support from those connected to Whickham FC speaks volumes about what this club means to so many.
We would also like to express our sincere thanks to Dave and Staff at Whickham Glebe Sports Club for their continued support. Their partnership and commitment play a vital role in helping us operate smoothly and provide the best possible environment for our players, staff, and supporters. We value their contribution enormously and look forward to strengthening this relationship further.
A Call to Our Supporters
Now more than ever, we need our supporters and sponsors. Your loyalty throughout the season has not gone unnoticed. As we enter these crucial final 13 league games and continue our League Cup campaign, we’re asking for that extra push.
Bring your voice. Bring your passion. Bring your belief. Bring a friend.
A loud, positive atmosphere at The Glebe makes a real difference – especially for our Junior Ultras, who set the tone every week.
We also welcome anyone who has time to volunteer or get involved. If you’d like to support the club in any capacity, we’d be delighted to speak with you about opportunities.
Let’s stand together. Let’s fight together. Let’s finish this season the Whickham way.
The fight is on, and we go again, together.
Lynn & Barry
Joint Chairs
Whickham FC
