History of the Trust

 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 around the UK that have been set up under a structure developed by Supporters Direct.
  • A group of Tranmere supporters formed a working group a few months previously and developed a set of aims and an associated constitution.
  • These aims remain the same today, although the ways in which the Trust has sought to achieve these aims has changed and developed over the years depending on the circumstances facing the Club, the Trust and the supporters.

2003

  • Partnership with Weston Spirit / attempted takeover by Stephen Vaughan.
  • 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.

Takeover bid, 2011

  • 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.

Fan Park 2, 2020

  • Fan Park 2 was developed in 2020 as a permanent, year-round solution to replace the temporary structure. After German Kraft were introduced to the Trust by the Club, plans were collaboratively designed to include a German Kraft microbrewery, a live-event venue, and dedicated space for the Trust’s community activities.
  • Supporters enthusiastically backed the project, pledging £352,695 through Crowdfunder in April 2021, with an additional £280,000 raised via five-year supporter bonds. Find out more about the project here

Ben Harrison (Late Trust Chairman), 2023

  • 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 across Wirral. 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 unwavering; his vision and drive remain a constant motivation to us all.

 

Become a Member