About | History of the Trust
Formed in 2002
The Trust was formally brought into existence as an Industrial and Provident Society in May 2002. This is a similar model to the other 150+ supporters’ trusts round the UK that have been set up under a structure developed by Supporters Direct. Find out more about the Trust here.
Partnership with Weston Spirit / Attempted takeover by Stephen Vaughan, 2003
Trust forms a community consortium with Weston Spirit to fight off a takeover attempt from then Chester City owner Stephen Vaughan.
Les Aid, January 2010
Raised £12,500 to help fund the loan signing of Andy Robinson from Leeds United.
Season Ticket Heritage Packs, April 2010
More than 2,500 fans buy season tickets on the back of the Trust’s Heritage Pack campaign designed to boost sales.
With the club going through a period of instability, the Trust launched a take-over bid. Whilst ultimately it was not to be, the work put in by the Trust set the foundations for the future. Find out more here.
Johnny King Statue Fund, 2014
Raised £50,000 for a statue to honour legendary manager Johnny King, with replica models produced as commemorative gifts.
Ben Harrison (Trust Chairman)
In August 2023, Chairman of the Trust since 2008, Ben Harrison, sadly passed away. Ben attended his first Rovers game in 1970. He worked in the voluntary sector for 25 years, co-founding Weston Spirit and working as Chief Executive for 18 years.
Ben owned his own business, Home & Homebrew Tap with outlets in Oxton, New Brighton & West Kirby. He was involved in the Trust since 2005, initially as a Board Member.
Ben was a selfless person who worked tirelessly on Trust and Club projects, always putting others ahead of himself. He was the driving force behind so many initiatives that helped to support the club and the local community.
His passion for the football club was unstinting; his vision and drive a constant motivation to us all.
