We had the great pleasure of welcoming Azhar Ali OBE, Labour candidate in the upcoming Rochdale by-election, to the Crown Oil Arena on Saturday, for our match against Dagenham & Redbridge.
Although not the result we were all hoping for, we trust that Mr Ali and his campaign team enjoyed their afternoon.
On Sunday, Chairman Simon Gauge held positive talks with Mr Ali and his team, along with Rochdale Borough Council Leader Neil Emmott.
Mr Gauge used the opportunity to highlight the fantastic contribution that the Football Club makes to the local community and economy, but also to warn of the severe financial difficulties the Club face in the short and long-term.
We were very encouraged by the positive atmosphere that the meeting was conducted in, with a general willingness from all parties to look at finding ways in which the Club can survive sustainably in the long-term.
There were also positive discussions about how the Crown Oil Arena can be a home to both the Football Club and Rochdale Hornets Rugby League Club for many years to come, as well as being a hub at the centre of the community.
It was agreed that urgent talks will continue between the Club and the Council.
