Durham secure long-term future as Thompson acquires majority stake

Durham secure long-term future as Thompson acquires majority stake Durham’s long-term future has been secured with local businessman Geoff Thompson having acquired a majority stake in the club with backing from a co-investor. WSL Full-Time were informed of the news via an official media update from The Wildcats this evening. Durham’s immediate future had been in serious doubt due to the continued financial requirements to compete in Barclays WSL2. The club were left with 21 days to save their status as one of the most successful women’s and girls clubs in North East football. Despite a nervous couple of weeks, staff, players and fans’ prayers have been answered with local businessman Thompson coming to the rescue along with a co-investor. Thompson is no stranger to North East football. He has enjoyed a hugely successful spell as chairman of South Shields. He has spent more than a decade transforming the club’s fortunes on and off the pitch. After acquiring a majority stake in Durham Women, Thompson said “With a decision required within a matter of days, the overriding priority was to safeguard Durham Women FC and protect its long-term future. “We firmly believe the club plays a crucial role within the local community and deserves every opportunity to grow, progress, and succeed. “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Mr. Jason Ye, my newest partner at South Shields FC, for the trust and confidence he has placed in me, in this club, and in the North East region as a whole. “Together, we share a strong belief in the future of women’s football. The women’s game continues to grow at an exceptional pace, and we are confident that Durham Women FC is well positioned to be part of this exciting journey. “Working alongside Lee [Sanders] and Dawn [Hepple], the club’s supporters, and our local partners, we are committed to unlocking the club’s full potential while ensuring it remains deeply connected to the culture, values, and identity that make the North East so special.” Club founders Lee Sanders and Dawn Hepple will retain their roles as shareholders while the existing executive management team will continue to lead day-to-day operations.