Yesterday, Parliament introduced legislation that will put fans back at the heart of football.

Working tirelessly as a trusted voice within the FSA, Bolton Wanderers Supporters Trust, and in particular our secretary Ian Bridge, have worked side by side with the FSA and with Tracey Crouch & others to bring about this important piece of legislation.

Proud of our relationship with the Club & other Trusts nationally, this legislation will establish a truly independent force in football that finally gives fans their voice, and as Trust Secretary Ian recovers from serious illness, his role in this achievement cannot be underestimated.

Along with being an elected FSA National Council-member Ian is also a director of Fairgame UK, an organisation that has played a leading role in the development of the Fan Led review, & the establishment of the IREF.

If  the Fair game index is to be adopted in full by the IREF, the financial redistribution would result in BWFC receiving significant additional funding to help in next season’s campaign.

The new legislation will establish the new ‘Independent Football Regulator’ (IFR) as a standalone body - independent of both Government and the football authorities.  It will have 3 main objectives:

• to improve financial sustainability of clubs
• to ensure financial resilience across the leagues
• to safeguard the heritage of English football

The new Football Governance Bill means amongst other things that new owners and directors will face stronger tests to stop clubs falling into the wrong hands, and face the possibility of being removed and struck off from owning football clubs if they are found to be unsuitable.

We can all recall several examples in recent years of financial mismanagement, the breakaway plans for the European Super League, and changes that some clubs have made that have gone totally against fans wishes. We only need to look down the road at our neighbours in Bury to see what does happen when unscrupulous owners can’t be stopped.

This Football Governance Bill will finally make sure fans voices are at the heart of the game, and ensure clubs as vital community assets continue to thrive. Clubs will also be required to consult their fans on key off-field decisions too.

A significant step in the right direction for any football fan!