Approximately 40 people attended the GWSC EGM and AGM in the VP lounge at Huish Park last night.

Chairman George Coggen opened the meeting and welcomed those attending, including GWSC President John Fry and guest speaker Gary Johnson. George began by making some heartfelt comments about recent allegations and unfounded criticisms of the GWSC committee appearing on the internet, something which he would return to later in the evening.

He then introduced the purpose of the EGM which, contrary to various uninformed rumours on the fans forum, was to discuss incorporation of the GWSC. Following a supporting speech from John Fry, and an amendment from Tony Elbourn, the membership voted in favour of this action, but with precise details to be reviewed with a further EGM to follow, provisionally in late January.

John Fry began his President’s Address, before handing over to guest speaker Gary Johnson. Gary talked of the support given by both the GWSC and the club’s supporters in general, and was very complimentary about his staff and all of those working at the club. He concluded by giving the true state of affairs regarding various newspaper reports regarding players supposedly either joining or leaving the club.

John Fry then continued his address, talking of the need for the various elements within the club to work together to progress. He asked for interaction between the supporters’ groups, and spoke of stability and security, and the need for transparency in all dealings, so that everything was not only done properly but was seen to be done properly. He also made reference to a representation by disabled supporters in decision-making groups, and it is hoped that this will lead to improvements in the facilities provided by the club.

George Coggen delivered his Chairman’s Report and, when considering the "bad points" again made reference to the various items appearing on the internet attempting to discredit the GWSC committee and it’s work. He made no bones about labelling those involved as "utter scumbags", and went on to correct and clarify various items of misinformation, inaccuracy and blatant lies which have appeared. He indicated that possible legal action against one or two individuals is presently under consideration.

Moving on to the "good points" he reported upon funds raised by GWSC for the club, refurbishment of tea bars, and thanks for various committee members and helpers.

Rob Cox presented the Treasurer’s Report, outlining a surplus of £5,201.71 for the 2001/02 season, and this after £3,633.27 had already been donated to the football club. He then went on to present a cheque for £5,000 to John Fry for a new kitchen range.

Gayle Franklin presented the Secretary’s Report, commenting on increases in both full membership and Junior Glovers membership of over 100.

Rob Cox presented the Public Relations Officer’s Report, thanking Steve Sowden in particular, but also announced that he was stepping down after 5 years on the committee. Although personal circumstances played their part, his decision had, he said, been influenced by the negative attitude shown against the GWSC recently.

Several questions were asked under 'Any Other Business', and these included the most heated moments of the evening when topics such as programme sales, print quality of the Trophy Souvenir book, and the lack of photos of GWSC presentations in the club programme arose. This reporter agrees with John Fry’s comments, however, that such matters should have been discussed and resolved before these frustrations built up, and as such they are not really subject matter for an AGM.

The Election of the Committee saw Rob Cox, Zoe Caswell and Mr and Mrs Haggett step down and not apply for re-election.

The nominees for committee were Richard Rendell, Roy Togood and Tony Elbourn. All were elected en bloc and unopposed. There remains one vacancy, and it is hoped that a further member will be co-opted to the committee at a later date. Anyone who has 3 or more years of consecutive GWSC membership who may be interested in this position is urged to contact the committee.

Following the official conclusion of the meeting team manager Gary Johnson said a few words thanking the committee and wishing them good luck.

It is hoped that the unnecessary campaign of misinformation, rumour and unjustified criticism which has recently been waged against the GWSC and it’s work by certain individuals will now finally be ended, and that the supporters’ groups can work together to help the club in moving onward and, hopefully, upward.