The Takeover Megathread (David Low Bid Rejected)

[oneone73]

One question - who are these like minded Hibs fans that want to invest in the club, and secure its long term future ?

It is not snide remarks it is about the long term security of our football club.
I would suggest that saying Kano is feeding a hack without any justification for such a remark is pretty snide.
As I said earlier, I am sure that Kane on the one hand and MM on the other are both diehard Hibbies. No Whyte scenario here.

[Jack]

Malcolm is a solid hibby and top business man. I've had many dealings with him. From what I've been told farmer quite rightly wants community involvement. I understand this bid doesn't have it.

Would be better if farmer Malcolm and kano got together to produce a model. Which leaves the club in hibernian hands. People that will love and care for it.

I predict a swearing match with surprisingly little common ground!

[down-the-slope]

From what I understand the Low, former ninja, negotiations have been going on for a while.

As I wouldn't expect Low or STF to be in the business of time wasting then the Low bid must include all the elements STF is looking for.

Leeann's experience in community ownership was only one part of her expertise in running a football club.

To be honest the only thing we know with any certainty at the moment is that bid is with STF.

I think we're also fairly certain that Forever Hibernian have a bid on the table, and outwith these two bids ...

Leeann Dempster is keen to engage with the support to find out our appetite for fan ownership and what model might be most acceptable to us.

Jack - how are you certain about the first given supposed confidentiality etc?
And the second - how could that be possible as there is no way such a group could bid based on a predicted amount of money from supporters who have not been consulted / let alone asked if they would commit?

[DarlingtonHibee]

I would suggest that saying Kano is feeding a hack without any justification for such a remark is pretty snide.
As I said earlier, I am sure that Kane on the one hand and MM on the other are both diehard Hibbies. No Whyte scenario here.

Well - I'm sure your right, I'm sure no one is talking to anyone - would never happen in business.

No Whyte scam - Duff and Grey ?

[Weststandwanab]

On the planet where you say a businessman is not to be trusted to uphold a confidentiality agreement, thereby implying he is not one fit to do business with. It's all about reputation.
Anyway, I doubt Kano will be all that bothered by snide remarks on a fans forum.

On that basis when do you expect litigation to commence ?

[Jack]

Jack - how are you certain about the first given supposed confidentiality etc?
And the second - how could that be possible as there is no way such a group could bid based on a predicted amount of money from supporters who have not been consulted / let alone asked if they would commit?

I'm pretty certain Kano has said, following discussions with STF, a bid was with him. That was a few weeks ago. I could be wrong, it could be in the process but my understanding is its already there - no insider information. The bottom line is even if its not there at this precise moment in time, having one on the table is the intention.

It would be easy enough for any fans portion of the bid to be underwritten by the main backers. I don't think it would be feasible for any fan involvement to ask for cash up front at fairly short notice. Lots of ways to achieve this medium term.

[GoldenEagle]

The club assets are already mortgaged to the tune of £ 12 million. A successful bidder would be required to take over and secure that debt to the satisfaction of the lender.


£12m...thought it was circa £6.5m at last set of accounts?

[Pretty Boy]

Don't know enough about either bid to have strong opinions either way at the minute.

I'll wait until more info is forthcoming before getting worked up about them.

[Golden Bear]

Don't know enough about either bid to have strong opinions either way at the minute.

I'll wait until more info is forthcoming before getting worked up about them.

:agree:

Exactly PB. See my post at 239 - no answers so far.

[oneone73]

On that basis when do you expect litigation to commence ?

As I said, I doubt anyone places that much credence in a throwaway remark on a fans forum. I still think there are a lot of cheap shots on here which you wouldn't get away with on other media or face to face.
Anyway, I'm bowing out, I have no real axe to grind. Can we at least agree that neither Kano nor MM is trying to make a killing at Hibs' expense?

[Juice-Terry]

If anything, this Low business may force Kano and Forever Hibernian to show their hand sooner rather than later.

[RIP]

Personally I think its time for the rainbow alliance involved in Forever Hibernian to show it's size and strength. A lot of fans seem to be under the false impression that negotiations with Rod and Sir Tom's advisors are being handled by Paul Kane.

Paul has made it clear that there are financial experts handling these matters. The group is backed by businessmen, former players, the Hibs Supporters Association and now appear to be in consultation with Supporters Direct.

Who are the supporters groups that have supposedly been talking to David Low?

[SanFranHibs]

I don't care if someone buys the club without consulting the supporters. Just as long as they keep the club safe, run it correctly and the consequences on the pitch are the ones we all want to see.



The consortium that Kane is involved with/fronting is making a horse's erse of the entire saga IMHO. Not good for a group that apparently needs/wants us to chip in to help them buy the club.

My understanding is that they did and have built a strategy based upon these results.

We are now going to bring back Mowbray, McLeish and John 6-pack Collins to support a completely unknown Dutch manager; we are going to spend, spend, spend on the team whilst keeping a tight budget and building on youth; we will not sell off our best players and most promising youths thus ensuring we get the best price for them; we are going to fill in the corners at ER to improve the atmoshphere for the expected decrease in crowds and rip the seats of the east so some fans can stand; half the pitch will be grass and the other half artificial; Petrie shall no longer be a God but one must still bow whilst backing out of his presence;STF expects confidentiality on all progress but any statement released to the press via Hibs.Net is ok if it is well intentioned;flag debates are to be banned except with regards to other teams;Consensus is acheivable although we might not all agree on it.


I wish I had something more sensible to say but fan 'ownership' to me is not a way forward for a football club. I can't prevent the cynic in me saying it is just a way for people to put in a bid but they can't really afford OR they are unwilling about putting in their money in and are trying to hedge their bets. Not a dig at Kane just the whole fan consortium approach.

I think that if we are going to debate a take over of Hibs we should concentrate on 'concrete' bids and not if Paul Kane can afford to drink at Starbucks. However, I will leave the financial aspects of this to others who know better the balance sheet of Hibs. Given our Assets, Debts and Liabilities is 3.5 million a legitimate offer?

[Golden Bear]

Personally I think its time for the rainbow alliance involved in Forever Hibernian to show it's size and strength. A lot of fans seem to be under the false impression that negotiations with Rod and Sir Tom's advisors are being handled by Paul Kane.

Paul has made it clear that there are financial experts handling these matters. The group is backed by businessmen, former players, the Hibs Supporters Association and now appear to be in consultation with Supporters Direct.

Who are the supporters groups that have supposedly been talking to David Low?

"Supporters Direct?" - excuse my ignorance but who or what is that?

[RIP]

If anything, this Low business may force Kano and Forever Hibernian to show their hand sooner rather than later.

Paul had already stated there would be an announcement this week. More likely Low has tried a preemptive strike. Farmer and Petrie will not be rushed by rash media tactics. Way too experienced for that. Time for cool heads and careful steps.

[down-the-slope]

I'm pretty certain Kano has said, following discussions with STF, a bid was with him. That was a few weeks ago. I could be wrong, it could be in the process but my understanding is its already there - no insider information. The bottom line is even if its not there at this precise moment in time, having one on the table is the intention.

It would be easy enough for any fans portion of the bid to be underwritten by the main backers. I don't think it would be feasible for any fan involvement to ask for cash up front at fairly short notice. Lots of ways to achieve this medium term.

:aok: that would make sense. Guess it would be down to whether STF would be happy if fan involvement failed.






For the record - fan ownership is not for me. Supporter involvement at all levels :agree: . but they are very different things

[down-the-slope]

"In the two months since relegation a number of people have expressed views about the club. There are no offers being actively pursued by the club or it's owners."

Well that is a definitive answer to the question of are there offers....there may be but not considered worth a sook

[grunt]

"In the two months since relegation a number of people have expressed views about the club. There are no offers being actively pursued by the club or it's owners."

Well that is a definitive answer to the question of are there offers....there may be but not considered worth a sookWhere does this quote come from please?

[oneone73]

Where does this quote come from please?

BBC website

[Ringothedog]

The club assets are already mortgaged to the tune of £ 12 million. A successful bidder would be required to take over and secure that debt to the satisfaction of the lender.

I love made up figures,where do you get 12m from ?

[Hibby Bairn]

So what is the general appetite from us all on fan ownership?

Would we be prepared to invest say £1,000 over 5 years via a direct debit (say £20 a month)?

Would we be prepared to invest say £250 up front plus a monthly direct debit for "membership" (say £12 per month)?

Let's say we had to raise £5m. That is 10,000 supporters at £500 each or 5,000 at £1,000 each. Would we be up for this?

[Pretty Boy]

So what is the general appetite from us all on fan ownership?

Would we be prepared to invest say £1,000 over 5 years via a direct debit (say £20 a month)?

Would we be prepared to invest say £250 up front plus a monthly direct debit for "membership" (say £12 per month)?

Let's say we had to raise £5m. That is 10,000 supporters at £500 each or 5,000 at £1,000 each. Would we be up for this?

In principle I'd be willing to pay towards a fan ownership style scheme.

However as I said earlier in the thread there is quite literally no information about at this time. Nothing about how it would be organised, how and when payments would be made, even who is involved in the rival bids so it's very hard to say one way or another.

The sooner there is some clarity about what is going on the better.

[Ozyhibby]

Can someone point me to where STF has said he wants community ownership?
I keep seeing it repeated on here but have never seen any article or interview where the man actually says this.

[s.a.m]

Simon Pia‏@SimonPia1 9m (https://twitter.com/SimonPia1/status/498080029298159617) Q What have FarmerPetrie ever done for Hibs? A Sucked life, soul & cash out the club


Guesswork on my part, but does this suggest that STF looks like knocking back the Kano plan? It seems like a strange Tweet, if negotiations are ongoing...
Or perhaps it's just that Simon doesn't get the whole 'winning friends and influencing people' thing.:dunno:

[Pretty Boy]

Simon Pia‏@SimonPia1 9m (https://twitter.com/SimonPia1/status/498080029298159617) Q What have FarmerPetrie ever done for Hibs? A Sucked life, soul & cash out the club


Guesswork on my part, but does this suggest that STF looks like knocking back the Kano plan? It seems like a strange Tweet, if negotiations are ongoing...
Or perhaps it's just that Simon doesn't get the whole 'winning friends and influencing people' thing.:dunno:

Failing to acknowledge the good that Petrie and Farmer have done in the past does that group no favours.

To suggest all they have done for 20+ years is sucked life and money from the club is nonsense.

[matty_f]

Failing to acknowledge the good that Petrie and Farmer have done in the past does that group no favours.

To suggest all they have done for 20+ years is sucked life and money from the club is nonsense.

Pia has had it in for Petrie and STF for ages. IIRC he was close to a failed bid for the club in the past.

[greenginger]

I love made up figures,where do you get 12m from ?


Ok, Overall debt at last accounts, £12.1 million, of which £ 3 million was accruals and deferred income ( season ticket money etc ).

Last seasons losses will be £ 1 to 1.5 million . I think we will see a club debt figure of approx £ 10 million excluding accruals in the accounts to 31/7/2014.

[RIP]

Ok, Overall debt at last accounts, £12.1 million, of which £ 3 million was accruals and deferred income ( season ticket money etc ).

Last seasons losses will be £ 1 to 1.5 million . I think we will see a club debt figure of approx £ 10 million excluding accruals in the accounts to 31/7/2014.

Yup. £12m debt.In second tier. Threadbare squad. ST's half of what they were 8 years ago.

But we still have people believing we have been well run by big business types. We only have to look to St Johnstone. Well run club. Owned and run by businessman fans. Simple business model.High volunteer ethic. Steady finances. Scottish Cup.

As Leeann stated when she came to the club we have been too corporate. We need to go back to being a football club again. Back to basics and back to our roots.

[chippy]

Simon Pia‏@SimonPia1 9m (https://twitter.com/SimonPia1/status/498080029298159617) Q What have FarmerPetrie ever done for Hibs? A Sucked life, soul & cash out the club


Guesswork on my part, but does this suggest that STF looks like knocking back the Kano plan? It seems like a strange Tweet, if negotiations are ongoing...
Or perhaps it's just that Simon doesn't get the whole 'winning friends and influencing people' thing.:dunno:

Simon has been very consistent over the years in questioning the contributions of STF. Going back he queried how much STF paid for Hibs. Also how much STF made on Straiton land and property deals which came along with "saving " Hibs. He challenged the owners but we never did get full disclosure on all of the financial dealings to do with Hibs. He is a total hibee as is Kano and he has not sought any limelight in this situation. I for one am grateful to him and think he is spot on with his comments re Petrie and Farmer. Yes they will probably sell us off to the highest bidder rather than facilitate a way for the fans to own part or most of the club. What will that say about the man who said he saved Hibs for the community?

[schinkenotto]

Simon has been very consistent over the years in questioning the contributions of STF. Going back he queried how much STF paid for Hibs. Also how much STF made on Straiton land and property deals which came along with "saving " Hibs. He challenged the owners but we never did get full disclosure on all of the financial dealings to do with Hibs. He is a total hibee as is Kano and he has not sought any limelight in this situation. I for one am grateful to him and think he is spot on with his comments re Petrie and Farmer. Yes they will probably sell us off to the highest bidder rather than facilitate a way for the fans to own part or most of the club. What will that say about the man who said he saved Hibs for the community?

Posts like this are getting on dangerous ground.I hold no brief for Petrie,but having been professionally involved as a solicitor to the late Kenny Maclean,Douglas Cromb and Tom O'Malley in rescuing Hibs from Wallace Mercer and having encountered STF in various charitable endeavours since I would have no reservations about his integrity and his desire to save Hibs for the benefit of the Leith community.I would also be very wary about lining up with people like Simon Pia, mystery "consortia"especially any involving David Low and "investors" with previous connections to other clubs.I support Leann Dempster and Alan Stubbs,the removal of Petrie and the comfort of having a reputable bank guarantor,rather than making the club(which I have supported for 60 years) the plaything of uncaring "investors" ,mysterious "business men" or people trying to get publicity with nothing to back it up.

[DarlingtonHibee]

Simon Pia‏@SimonPia1 9m (https://twitter.com/SimonPia1/status/498080029298159617) Q What have FarmerPetrie ever done for Hibs? A Sucked life, soul & cash out the club


Guesswork on my part, but does this suggest that STF looks like knocking back the Kano plan? It seems like a strange Tweet, if negotiations are ongoing...
Or perhaps it's just that Simon doesn't get the whole 'winning friends and influencing people' thing.:dunno:

Very sad from Simon, guess he is freelance now, so trying to stir it up for a few quid - sad...

[1875STEVE]

£12m...thought it was circa £6.5m at last set of accounts?

Down by 900k to 5.2m as of last years accounts.

Nowhere near £12m, although im expecting a loss in the next accounts.

[chippy]

Very sad from Simon, guess he is freelance now, so trying to stir it up for a few quid - sad...

So anyone who is critical of the current regime is doing it for alterior motives and not for their love of Hibs? I know Simon from schooldays and he is a good socialist That he chooses to question and criticise powerful men is to his credit. Poor from you with cheap shots

[jdships]

So anyone who is critical of the current regime is doing it for alterior motives and not for their love of Hibs? I know Simon from schooldays and he is a good socialist That he chooses to question and criticise powerful men is to his credit. Poor from you with cheap shots

Appreciate you have know him a good few years but having been involved with him during my working life he comes across as a typical
" Champagne Socialist" : does nothing without ensuring he can " make" something out of it
Always has looked for the " main chance "
Pleasant guy to speak to all the same !!

[jdships]

Posts like this are getting on dangerous ground.I hold no brief for Petrie,but having been professionally involved as a solicitor to the late Kenny Maclean,Douglas Cromb and Tom O'Malley in rescuing Hibs from Wallace Mercer and having encountered STF in various charitable endeavours since I would have no reservations about his integrity and his desire to save Hibs for the benefit of the Leith community.I would also be very wary about lining up with people like Simon Pia, mystery "consortia"especially any involving David Low and "investors" with previous connections to other clubs.I support Leann Dempster and Alan Stubbs,the removal of Petrie and the comfort of having a reputable bank guarantor,rather than making the club(which I have supported for 60 years) the plaything of uncaring "investors" ,mysterious "business men" or people trying to get publicity with nothing to back it up.

Like you I was " involved" in the Wallace Mercer fiasco , albeit on the fringes , and agree with all you write here :thumbsup:

" the plaything of uncaring "investors" ,mysterious "business men" or people trying to get publicity with nothing to back it up."
For me that is the big worry : we don't kneed a knee jerk reaction which goes along with the first " Johnny come lately" that turns up. Like you my support goes back a long way ( 74 years) and it has been the roller coaster ride to end all roller coaster rides but wouldn't have missed it for
anything :greengrin:top marks

[DarlingtonHibee]

So anyone who is critical of the current regime is doing it for alterior motives and not for their love of Hibs? I know Simon from schooldays and he is a good socialist That he chooses to question and criticise powerful men is to his credit. Poor from you with cheap shots

Sorry to upset you, but I deal in facts - please tell me what he brings to the long term future of Hibernian FC.

ps - you dont need to lecture me about labour / socialist politics.

[Islington Hibs]

If it is the David Low I think it is he is an out and out Celtic fan. I would doubt (but I do not know) he has substantial funds. I wouldn't want to pre-judge without knowing the detail but in my view we far better with and absent STF than this. And by the way I am no STTF apologist and on previous threads have been clear that Petrie has to go. Would be interested in others views on this.

[silverhibee]

Our assets are surely worth 15 - 20 million pounds....3.5 sounds ludicrous.

What assets do we have that are worth £15/£20m.

[Keith_M]

What assets do we have that are worth £15/£20m.


Stadium, Ticket Office and land it sits on plus Training Centre.


No idea of the current value but it can't be far off that.

[Beefster]

Simon Pia‏@SimonPia1 9m (https://twitter.com/SimonPia1/status/498080029298159617) Q What have FarmerPetrie ever done for Hibs? A Sucked life, soul & cash out the club


Guesswork on my part, but does this suggest that STF looks like knocking back the Kano plan? It seems like a strange Tweet, if negotiations are ongoing...
Or perhaps it's just that Simon doesn't get the whole 'winning friends and influencing people' thing.:dunno:

Good to see the Kane group getting PR advice from someone objective.

[ancient hibee]

Ground valuation £18.5 M
East Mains £ 5.4 M
Cash £1.4M


Current debt £5.8M

Long term debt £6.3M


Value of the company £13.5 M

All as at 31/7/13.

Why would anyone accept £10million less than value?

[ronaldo7]

Posts like this are getting on dangerous ground.I hold no brief for Petrie,but having been professionally involved as a solicitor to the late Kenny Maclean,Douglas Cromb and Tom O'Malley in rescuing Hibs from Wallace Mercer and having encountered STF in various charitable endeavours since I would have no reservations about his integrity and his desire to save Hibs for the benefit of the Leith community.I would also be very wary about lining up with people like Simon Pia, mystery "consortia"especially any involving David Low and "investors" with previous connections to other clubs.I support Leann Dempster and Alan Stubbs,the removal of Petrie and the comfort of having a reputable bank guarantor,rather than making the club(which I have supported for 60 years) the plaything of uncaring "investors" ,mysterious "business men" or people trying to get publicity with nothing to back it up.
:top marks



Appreciate you have know him a good few years but having been involved with him during my working life he comes across as a typical
" Champagne Socialist" : does nothing without ensuring he can " make" something out of it
Always has looked for the " main chance "
Pleasant guy to speak to all the same !!

:top marks

[madhibby]

Ground valuation £18.5 M
East Mains £ 5.4 M
Cash £1.4M


Current debt £5.8M

Long term debt £6.3M


Value of the company £13.5 M

All as at 31/7/13.

Why would anyone accept £10million less than value?

Hibs are nowhere near worth £13.5m. They are worth what purchasers are prepared to pay and remember Rangers and Hearts were sold for £2.5m to £3.5m. It is not in Hibs interests for any new investors to have to pay Sir Tom/Rod Petrie that sort of money as it reduces whatever money new investors have available to run the club. My understanding is STF paid around £3m for Hibs. If he is true to his word, and I have no reason to doubt that, and Sir Tom is a wealthy man, all he is concerned with is that ownership passes to investors with Hibs' best interests as their sole motivation. Myself I would be keen on some fan ownership, say fans having a 51% stake along with other wealthy investors. I wonder if it might be possible for part of STF’s family still to retain some ownership as part of a deal being done?

Unlike a lot of posters on here I am up for a change of ownership as it should drive Hibs forward if done properly.

[Kaiser1962]

Simon has been very consistent over the years in questioning the contributions of STF. Going back he queried how much STF paid for Hibs. Also how much STF made on Straiton land and property deals which came along with "saving " Hibs. He challenged the owners but we never did get full disclosure on all of the financial dealings to do with Hibs. He is a total hibee as is Kano and he has not sought any limelight in this situation. I for one am grateful to him and think he is spot on with his comments re Petrie and Farmer. Yes they will probably sell us off to the highest bidder rather than facilitate a way for the fans to own part or most of the club. What will that say about the man who said he saved Hibs for the community?

This nonsense again? The car park will be next.

[FranckSuzy]

There were leaflets in the Hibs Club today, asking if you'd be willing to contribute a minimum of £20 a month towards Hibs. It didn't go into any other detail and asked for your name, address and email, I think. It didn't say who was behind it though......

[silverhibee]

There were leaflets in the Hibs Club today, asking if you'd be willing to contribute a minimum of £20 a month towards Hibs. It didn't go into any other detail and asked for your name, address and email, I think. It didn't say who was behind it though......


Yourself. :greengrin

[Islington Hibs]

Hibs are nowhere near worth £13.5m. They are worth what purchasers are prepared to pay and remember Rangers and Hearts were sold for £2.5m to £3.5m. It is not in Hibs interests for any new investors to have to pay Sir Tom/Rod Petrie that sort of money as it reduces whatever money new investors have available to run the club. My understanding is STF paid around £3m for Hibs. If he is true to his word, and I have no reason to doubt that, and Sir Tom is a wealthy man, all he is concerned with is that ownership passes to investors with Hibs' best interests as their sole motivation. Myself I would be keen on some fan ownership, say fans having a 51% stake along with other wealthy investors. I wonder if it might be possible for part of STF’s family still to retain some ownership as part of a deal being done?

Unlike a lot of posters on here I am up for a change of ownership as it should drive Hibs forward if done properly.


The above quote is on the button. The club has theoretical assets like the value of the ground, but it is only worth £10/15m if you build flats on the hallowed turf. It is a liability without that as the stadium needs maintained. Businesses are valued on cash flows and dividends. Hibs, in common with almost every club, struggles to break even, let alone pay a dividend. I would say £5m would be a big price to pay and £2-4m being a fairer reflection.

Football is also a very volatile, unpredictable business. Hibs need a wealthy backer who can ensure they survive times like now, when the chips are down. I have no idea what STF's motives are and whether he has had enough, or not, but we need to be seriously careful as the wrong, under-financed owner would be a disaster. I have major concerns about some of the rumours as to whom might be interested. Hibs need stability not some underfunded consortium looking for a bit of glory capitalising on an understandable dislike of Petrie.

[down-the-slope]

Yourself. :greengrin

:tsk tsk: now you know thats not true......if it were there would have been space for bank details / DD mandate :greengrin

[schinkenotto]

Like you I was " involved" in the Wallace Mercer fiasco , albeit on the fringes , and agree with all you write here :thumbsup:

" the plaything of uncaring "investors" ,mysterious "business men" or people trying to get publicity with nothing to back it up."
For me that is the big worry : we don't kneed a knee jerk reaction which goes along with the first " Johnny come lately" that turns up. Like you my support goes back a long way ( 74 years) and it has been the roller coaster ride to end all roller coaster rides but wouldn't have missed it for
anything :greengrin:top marks

Can't beat 74 years-respect!Agree about the "roller coaster ride" and cherish the few magnificent moments.

[Crazyhorse]

Ground valuation £18.5 M
East Mains £ 5.4 M
Cash £1.4M


Current debt £5.8M

Long term debt £6.3M


Value of the company £13.5 M

All as at 31/7/13.

Why would anyone accept £10million less than value?

Not attacking you but I'm sure everyone realises these figures might as well be pulled out of Petrie's ass.

Compare ER with the recent purchase of Tynecastle/HMFC that will give you a fairer idea.

East Mains must cover a lot of acres if its worth £5.4m. It's farmland that's all - and might end up with livestock grazing on it again if we don't get out of this league asap.

[FranckSuzy]

Yourself. :greengrin

:faf: Damn, wish I'd thought of that :rolleyes: :greengrin

[southsider]

Simon Pia‏@SimonPia1 9m (https://twitter.com/SimonPia1/status/498080029298159617) Q What have FarmerPetrie ever done for Hibs? A Sucked life, soul & cash out the club


Guesswork on my part, but does this suggest that STF looks like knocking back the Kano plan? It seems like a strange Tweet, if negotiations are ongoing...
Or perhaps it's just that Simon doesn't get the whole 'winning friends and influencing people' thing.:dunno:
Simon and Farmer have a agenda that goes way back. Farmer threatened to withdraw all advertising from Scotsman Publications unless Simon was sacked. Sacked, he was.

[grunt]

There were leaflets in the Hibs Club today, asking if you'd be willing to contribute a minimum of £20 a month towards Hibs. It didn't go into any other detail and asked for your name, address and email, I think. It didn't say who was behind it though......This sounds daft. Who is going to respond to such a request when it doesn't even say who's organising it?

[marinello59]

This sounds daft. Who is going to respond to such a request when it doesn't even say who's organising it?

Hopefully it's nothing to do with the Forever Hibernian bid .

[DarlingtonHibee]

Simon and Farmer have a agenda that goes way back. Farmer threatened to withdraw all advertising from Scotsman Publications unless Simon was sacked. Sacked, he was.

If true, that is very sad.

I was at various early meetings when RP arrived, and Simon was pretty critical of STF taking over, and asking questions about car parks, money, what did he pay for Hibs etc, which won't have helped, but to get the sack for that - very sad - he must have been warned though by his employer, or he should have realised himeself - you dont go critising one of your main clients, evn its a personl subject.

[grunt]

Update in the Scotsman

http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/spfl-lower-divisions/hibs-deny-actively-selling-club-despite-bids-1-3504649

[bingo70]

This sounds daft. Who is going to respond to such a request when it doesn't even say who's organising it?

Nobody is asking people to hand over £20 a month based on the leaflet, it will just have been a way to gauge the interest in the possibility.

Don't see why that's so daft?!

[bingo70]

Update in the Scotsman

http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/spfl-lower-divisions/hibs-deny-actively-selling-club-despite-bids-1-3504649

Thought it was said at the agm the club was basically always up for sale but nobody had shown interest, now people are showing interest we're not for sale?

[s.a.m]

Simon and Farmer have a agenda that goes way back. Farmer threatened to withdraw all advertising from Scotsman Publications unless Simon was sacked. Sacked, he was.

I'd forgotten about that! I knew he held a grudge against him, couldn't remember why.

[southsider]

STF has a history of shifting the goalposts.

[Leithenhibby]

There were leaflets in the Hibs Club today, asking if you'd be willing to contribute a minimum of £20 a month towards Hibs. It didn't go into any other detail and asked for your name, address and email, I think. It didn't say who was behind it though......

Did it not even say who from? Sounds a tad off the cuff to me, FS :agree:


This sounds daft. Who is going to respond to such a request when it doesn't even say who's organising it?

My very thoughts :agree:


Hopefully it's nothing to do with the Forever Hibernian bid .

Can't see it being anyone else, to be honest......

[greenpaper55]

STF has a history of shifting the goalposts.

Thats why we score so few goals :greengrin

[Kaiser1962]

Ground valuation £18.5 M


I recall football grounds are in the books on a replacement cost value.

[NAE NOOKIE]

Update in the Scotsman

http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/spfl-lower-divisions/hibs-deny-actively-selling-club-despite-bids-1-3504649

Though you cant always put 100% faith in 'a source' this does seem to fly in the face of the theory that STF has historically been looking to offload the club. The article says 'the club isn't for sale' not the club isn't for sale to this bidder.

[grunt]

The article says 'the club isn't for sale' not the club isn't for sale to this bidder.
The article says,
The club is not being actively sold or marketed. Sir Tom is not looking to sell it and by that I don’t mean he would refuse to. He’s just not actively trying to sell.

[Pretty Boy]

Nobody is asking people to hand over £20 a month based on the leaflet, it will just have been a way to gauge the interest in the possibility.

Don't see why that's so daft?!

A few leaflets in the Hibs Club isn't a particularly good way to gauge interest. What % of Hibs fans regularly attend Sunnyside? Between 1 and 5% maybe?

[Leithenhibby]

A few leaflets in the Hibs Club isn't a particularly good way to gauge interest. What % of Hibs fans regularly attend Sunnyside? Between 1 and 5% maybe?

This... :agree:

[NAE NOOKIE]

Simon and Farmer have a agenda that goes way back. Farmer threatened to withdraw all advertising from Scotsman Publications unless Simon was sacked. Sacked, he was.

If .... and I mean if .... this is true then it removes any lingering doubt I would have had that STF's confidentiality clause is a tactic rather than, for example, a business requirement.

As for the Scotsman ......... What paper worth anything would sack a journalist as a result of pressure from an advertiser who doesn't like whats being written about him? Brings into question the papers journalistic integrity surely.

[GoldenEagle]

Ground valuation £18.5 M
East Mains £ 5.4 M
Cash £1.4M


Current debt £5.8M

Long term debt £6.3M


Value of the company £13.5 M

All as at 31/7/13.

Why would anyone accept £10million less than value?


Ancient..I'm no accountant and perhaps your better qualified than myself but can you walk me through why you're adding the current and long term debt together. My understanding from looking at the Accounts to year end 31st July is that your doubling counting?

[Pretty Boy]

If .... and I mean if .... this is true then it removes any lingering doubt I would have had that STF's confidentiality clause is a tactic rather than, for example, a business requirement.

As for the Scotsman ......... What paper worth anything would sack a journalist as a result of pressure from an advertiser who doesn't like whats being written about him? Brings into question the papers journalistic integrity surely.

Tbh I think the Scotsmans output and dwindling curculation figures confirms any doubts about those running it and their integrity.

[The Falcon]

STF has a history of shifting the goalposts.

Can you give me an example?

[smurf]

Tbh I think the Scotsmans output and dwindling curculation figures confirms any doubts about those running it and their integrity.

Newspapers in 2014 all over the world are consumed in many different ways. Overall audience figures have never been higher for The Scotsman.

[hhibs]

Tbh I think the Scotsmans output and dwindling curculation figures confirms any doubts about those running it and their integrity.

Agreed on its output and integrity.

The digital version has certainly got a circulation despite its content,but as a freesheet!

I doubt its advertising revenues from its digital version are much in the way of income.

But never mind,really could not give a fig, wish it just did the right thing and expired tomorrow.

[Shore Thing]

Interview with David Low on Scottish Football Monitor:

http://www.tsfm.net/podcast-episode-5-takeover-plans-for-hibernian/

Talking about his consortium's takeover plans for Hibs.

[DarlingtonHibee]

FFS - this sounds like Craig Whyte all over again - he supports Celtic !!

I hope STF listens to this and tell him to bolt.

[Bishop Hibee]

Can you give me an example?

He shifted the goal posts on Straiton when he and the board realised crowd numbers would plummet if we moved there. I have old propaganda from Douglas Crombe saying the whole thing was a 100% done deal.

[NAE NOOKIE]

FFS - this sounds like Craig Whyte all over again - he supports Celtic !!

I hope STF listens to this and tell him to bolt.

Whats yer point ..... Former owner Kenny Waugh was a Yam, our current owner doesn't even like football, which I admit borders on the same thing. I think he addressed the celtic issue pretty well. Why would anybody take over a club and then not do the best they can for it?

The biggest alarm bell for me was his bleak outlook on the future of the Scottish game and likening it to the Irish scenario were most follow English football and only a few go to watch their local Irish club. He seemed to accept as a fait accompli that in the future Scottish football would go this way.

I do not want anybody involved in Scottish football who thinks this way. I want Hibs to be a success within the context of a strong vibrant Scottish game, not to be the turd that floats to the top in a cesspool. We must never ever give in to such an idea and fight tooth and nail against it.

If he doesn't agree ........... I'm out.

[southsider]

I suggest you get your facts right about our former chairman, Mr Waugh. Mr father was known him for nearly 70 years... he ain't no yam. The poor man has just lost his wife so no more lies please.

[The Falcon]

I suggest you get your facts right about our former chairman, Mr Waugh. Mr father was known him for nearly 70 years... he ain't no yam. The poor man has just lost his wife so no more lies please.

I remember he tried to buy the Yams when Mercer got them, before he bought Hibs. Dont know if he was a Yam or not though, would doubt it.

[The Falcon]

He shifted the goal posts on Straiton when he and the board realised crowd numbers would plummet if we moved there. I have old propaganda from Douglas Crombe saying the whole thing was a 100% done deal.

Was Straiton not more to do with clearing debt than anything else? I recall it was proposed twice and the second time there a group formed against it. Fans Against ReMoval from ER if my memory is not destroyed by drink. Is that really "moving the goalposts"? What did STF actually gain from it?

[CropleyWasGod]

Ancient..I'm no accountant and perhaps your better qualified than myself but can you walk me through why you're adding the current and long term debt together. My understanding from looking at the Accounts to year end 31st July is that your doubling counting?

Current debt is normally that due within 12 months, and "long term" that due after 12 months.

So he is right to add them together.

[Turkish Green]

I remember he tried to buy the Yams when Mercer got them, before he bought Hibs. Dont know if he was a Yam or not though.
As far as I recall Kenny Waugh was a Hibs supporter which was why the yams were so happy when the wallet came along. Although I do not know where he was when the wallet tried to kill Hibs.

[RIP]

We have a group of bona fide Hibs-supporting businessmen backed by former players, the Hibs Supporters Association advised by the Government backed Supporters Direct organisation.

This guy is a Celtic supporter from Clydebank. Not sure how he plans to gain our backing

[Golden Bear]

We have a group of bona fide Hibs-supporting businessmen backed by former players, the Hibs Supporters Association advised by the Government backed Supporters Direct organisation.

This guy is a Celtic supporter from Clydebank. Not sure how he plans to gain our backing

I can't say I'd even heard of Supporters Direct until you mentioned it but whatever happens I have faith in Sir TF to act in the Club's best interests.

[bingo70]

We have a group of bona fide Hibs-supporting businessmen backed by former players, the Hibs Supporters Association advised by the Government backed Supporters Direct organisation.

This guy is a Celtic supporter from Clydebank. Not sure how he plans to gain our backing

The American in the Celtic supporter from clydebanks consortium might be a multi billionaire with a track record of backing succesfull clubs and has money to invest.

I'm obviously being a bit sarcastic but I suppose the point I'm making is that I'd judge this boy and his consortium on their merits, not what club they support and where they come from.

[Saturday Boy]

Just read the Northern League Blog; apparently rumours in Carlisle and Northern England that Frank Lynch, used to own the Apollo, and who pulled his funding from non league club Celtic Nation last week, is part of the consortium bidding for Hibs.

Sorry I can't post a link on my ipad (age and fat fingers), but a quick google go Northern League should find it.

[FranckSuzy]

This sounds daft. Who is going to respond to such a request when it doesn't even say who's organising it?

:agree: Have to say, it looked a bit daft when it didn't have any contact details on it or even a wee bit info on who was behind it :confused:

[FranckSuzy]

Whats yer point ..... Former owner Kenny Waugh was a Yam, our current owner doesn't even like football, which I admit borders on the same thing. I think he addressed the celtic issue pretty well. Why would anybody take over a club and then not do the best they can for it?

The biggest alarm bell for me was his bleak outlook on the future of the Scottish game and likening it to the Irish scenario were most follow English football and only a few go to watch their local Irish club. He seemed to accept as a fait accompli that in the future Scottish football would go this way.

I do not want anybody involved in Scottish football who thinks this way. I want Hibs to be a success within the context of a strong vibrant Scottish game, not to be the turd that floats to the top in a cesspool. We must never ever give in to such an idea and fight tooth and nail against it.

If he doesn't agree ........... I'm out.

He is a Hibby, 100% :aok:

[FranckSuzy]

As far as I recall Kenny Waugh was a Hibs supporter which was why the yams were so happy when the wallet came along. Although I do not know where he was when the wallet tried to kill Hibs.

KW Snr told me that he ploughed a six figure sum into Hibs to help keep us afloat before STF came along :aok:

[tamig]

KW Snr told me that he ploughed a six figure sum into Hibs to help keep us afloat before STF came along :aok:

He did. A substantial one at that.

[NW]

Just read the Northern League Blog; apparently rumours in Carlisle and Northern England that Frank Lynch, used to own the Apollo, and who pulled his funding from non league club Celtic Nation last week, is part of the consortium bidding for Hibs.

Sorry I can't post a link on my ipad (age and fat fingers), but a quick google go Northern League should find it.

The lynch family are behind low allegedly

[Saturday Boy]

The lynch family are behind low allegedly

Not sure I'm entirely comfortable with that, given his "mission statement" when funding Celtic Nation in the Northern League was to have a focus for people of Irish extraction to have a football team to follow, something he thought the game in England lacked.

[NW]

Not sure I'm entirely comfortable with that, given his "mission statement" when funding Celtic Nation in the Northern League was to have a focus for people of Irish extraction to have a football team to follow, something he thought the game in England lacked.

Many would say they were bought as a possible means to get Celtic into England

[FranckSuzy]

He did. A substantial one at that.

:agree: :aok:

[Hibeesmad]

If these guys did takeover the club do you think they would actually invest in the team? Can't be bothered looking through all pages to see if this has already been mentioned

[Saturday Boy]

Many would say they were bought as a possible means to get Celtic into England

That's something I've read. Maybe this is his plan to get Celtic into the Championship? I'm never sure I believe anything I read on the internet.

[Leithenhibby]

We have a group of bona fide Hibs-supporting businessmen backed by former players, the Hibs Supporters Association advised by the Government backed Supporters Direct organisation.

This guy is a Celtic supporter from Clydebank. Not sure how he plans to gain our backing

Any names? only ever hear of PK :confused:


KW Snr told me that he ploughed a six figure sum into Hibs to help keep us afloat before STF came along :aok:

I think, KW may also have had an offer on the table at the same time as, STF....... :wink:

[FranckSuzy]

Any names? only ever hear of PK :confused:



I think, KW may also have had an offer on the table at the same time as, STF....... :wink:

I think you may be right :wink:

[IberianHibernian]

We have a group of bona fide Hibs-supporting businessmen backed by former players, the Hibs Supporters Association advised by the Government backed Supporters Direct organisation.

This guy is a Celtic supporter from Clydebank. Not sure how he plans to gain our backingDon`t know enough about either group to have a clear opinion but was backing for first group not mainly to get rid of RP at a time when what became Hibernian Forever was only known alternative ? Now there`s at least one other alternative . And second group includes an ex - chairman who certainly has Hibs credentials . Hopefully more groups will appear . The more serious alternatives from genuine people with future of Hibs at heart and sound business knowledge the better .

[NAE NOOKIE]

I suggest you get your facts right about our former chairman, Mr Waugh. Mr father was known him for nearly 70 years... he ain't no yam. The poor man has just lost his wife so no more lies please.

Erm ........... I stand corrected by not just you but another poster. I was obviously mistaken in my long held presumption that Mr Waugh was a Hearts supporter before buying Hibs so my deepest sincere apologies to him.

I have been wrong on here before and I dare say I may well be again ........ But I am not a ****ing liar and I utterly reject and resent your assertion that I would tell a lie in this or any other post !!!

[greenginger]

I remember he tried to buy the Yams when Mercer got them, before he bought Hibs. Dont know if he was a Yam or not though, would doubt it.

Absolutely no way was Kenny Waugh a Yam. Sure he tried to buy them because they were openly up for sale but he been a 50 club member and Easter Road regular for years.

[Liberal Hibby]

Many would say they were bought as a possible means to get Celtic into England

Hmm...

I'm not entirely opposed to them using Hibs instead.

[1875STEVE]

Ground valuation £18.5 M
East Mains £ 5.4 M
Cash £1.4M


Current debt £5.8M

Long term debt £6.3M


Value of the company £13.5 M

All as at 31/7/13.

Why would anyone accept £10million less than value?

:confused::confused::confused:

Hibs NET debt was 5.5m (not 5.2 I said earlier) at last years accounts.

NET debt is short term debt AND long term debt minus cash in the bank.

http://companycheck.co.uk/company/SC005323/THE-HIBERNIAN-FOOTBALL-CLUB-LIMITED/financial-accounts#financials

[RIP]

The American in the Celtic supporter from clydebanks consortium might be a multi billionaire with a track record of backing succesfull clubs and has money to invest.

I'm obviously being a bit sarcastic but I suppose the point I'm making is that I'd judge this boy and his consortium on their merits, not what club they support and where they come from.

Thanks Bingo I appreciate there is a sprinkling of tongue in cheek in your remark. However it is a worry for me that some of us believe that the most important criteria for ownership is a group's investment record rather than a strong understanding of the traditions, values and community of a football club.

The role of Malcolm McPherson is interesting as he would surely fit with all of these criteria. I wonder if he is connected to any of the other bid groups.

Blind faith in the motives of big business is the reason why Hearts, Rangers got into the mess they are in. The Farmer/Petrie era has been plagued by a disconnect with supporters and two decades of underachiement. The most credible clubs in Scotland are those that are owned by fans with sound commercial acumen who are loyal to club values, community and support.

If we can agree on the vision for Hibernian FC it will be easier to agree the criteria for ownership of our club. For me that means starting a campaign of thorough supporter consultation and engagement first before backing bids.

[Leithenhibby]

Thanks Bingo I appreciate there is a sprinkling of tongue in cheek in your remark. However it is a worry for me that some of us believe that the most important criteria for ownership is a group's investment record rather than a strong understanding of the traditions, values and community of a football club.

The role of Malcolm McPherson is interesting as he would surely fit with all of these criteria. I wonder if he is connected to any of the other bid groups.

Blind faith in the motives of big business is the reason why Hearts, Rangers got into the mess they are in. The Farmer/Petrie era has been plagued by a disconnect with supporters and two decades of underachiement. The most credible clubs in Scotland are those that are owned by fans with sound commercial acumen who are loyal to club values, community and support.

If we can agree on the vision for Hibernian FC it will be easier to agree the criteria for ownership of our club. For me that means starting a campaign of thorough supporter consultation and engagement first before backing bids.


Two good points that will take a good while to agree, I'd say. :agree: PK has had the ball at his feet for a while now, and we are stil none the wiser. :wink:

[CropleyWasGod]

:confused::confused::confused:

Hibs NET debt was 5.5m (not 5.2 I said earlier) at last years accounts.

NET debt is short term debt AND long term debt minus cash in the bank.

http://companycheck.co.uk/company/SC005323/THE-HIBERNIAN-FOOTBALL-CLUB-LIMITED/financial-accounts#financials

Not sure why you are confused. AH's figures are taken from the actual accounts.

[JeMeSouviens]

Was Straiton not more to do with clearing debt than anything else? I recall it was proposed twice and the second time there a group formed against it. Fans Against ReMoval from ER if my memory is not destroyed by drink. Is that really "moving the goalposts"? What did STF actually gain from it?

I have heard it said (but don't know if it's true) that the retail developments out at Straiton wouldn't have been allowed on green belt if there hadn't been the "community" aspect of a new stadium for Hibs included in the original plans ... and that even though Hibs backed out (due to a combination of fan pressure to stay at ER and the size of the stadium being scaled down), STF still had involvement in some money spinning property deals out there. So his Hibs involvement was rewarded financially but indirectly.

[JeMeSouviens]

Ground valuation £18.5 M
East Mains £ 5.4 M
Cash £1.4M


Current debt £5.8M

Long term debt £6.3M


Value of the company £13.5 M

All as at 31/7/13.

Why would anyone accept £10million less than value?


Because the ground and EM valuations are ridiculously inflated figures based on rebuild cost that football clubs use to shore up their balance sheets. ER is really only "worth" the value of the land it sits on, probably not more than £10M? Which starts to make the proposed figure sound a bit more reasonable?

[big gogs]

I'm sure Kenny Waugh bought £400,000 worth of shares so mercer could not get his hands on them

[Seveno]

I have heard it said (but don't know if it's true) that the retail developments out at Straiton wouldn't have been allowed on green belt if there hadn't been the "community" aspect of a new stadium for Hibs included in the original plans ... and that even though Hibs backed out (due to a combination of fan pressure to stay at ER and the size of the stadium being scaled down), STF still had involvement in some money spinning property deals out there. So his Hibs involvement was rewarded financially but indirectly.


He made a lot of money from Straiton and would have made a lot more if the Yam Council had not frustrated his plans for the Lochend Butterfly.

We should always be grateful to him for saving our club but he has bdone pretty well out of it. It is time now to give the club back to the supporters.

[Crazyhorse]

If .... and I mean if .... this is true then it removes any lingering doubt I would have had that STF's confidentiality clause is a tactic rather than, for example, a business requirement.

As for the Scotsman ......... What paper worth anything would sack a journalist as a result of pressure from an advertiser who doesn't like whats being written about him? Brings into question the papers journalistic integrity surely.

Don't know whether this Pia story is true or not but sacking a journalist at the behest of a big advertising purchaser shouldn't surprise. Papers like the Scotsman probably get (and at this time certainly did get) most of their revenue through advertising.

[The Gorf]

stv news on at the moment
piece coming up on sports section later saying that Petrie standing in the way of a takeover

[The Gorf]

Admin. Feel free to merge with takeover megathread

[Elephant Stone]

Unless STF is trying to sell as soon as possible this just seems like an awful time for this kind of distraction.

[GoldenEagle]

Unless STF is trying to sell as soon as possible this just seems like an awful time for this kind of distraction.

When would there be a good time though, is it a distraction or a benefit to potentially get new owners who might invest in the team in January to get us back up?

[Kaiser1962]

He made a lot of money from Straiton and would have made a lot more if the Yam Council had not frustrated his plans for the Lochend Butterfly.

We should always be grateful to him for saving our club but he has bdone pretty well out of it. It is time now to give the club back to the supporters.

His dealings at Straiton had nothing to do with Hibs. I don't get the link to Straiton as the lochend deal did not include the stadium.


I fail to see how he "has done pretty well out of it" when the opinion of the accounts guys on this forum have him around £8m down from his involvement with Hibs.

[Elephant Stone]

When would there be a good time though, is it a distraction or a benefit to potentially get new owners who might invest in the team in January to get us back up?

A good time, if any, would be when we're stable again. Right now we need to focus all attention on promotion, this is surely as big a distraction to supporters and staff as you could think of.

[DarlingtonHibee]

When would there be a good time though, is it a distraction or a benefit to potentially get new owners who might invest in the team in January to get us back up?

new owners invest in Hibs - please, why would you invest in Hibs with real cash - I think you'll find people are more intrested in the assets - and would borrow against them puting us more in debt. No one in their right mind would put cash into a football club

[DarlingtonHibee]

stv news on at the moment
piece coming up on sports section later saying that Petrie standing in the way of a takeover

As he only has 10% of Hibs - think this is unlikely

[PaulSmith]

His dealings at Straiton had nothing to do with Hibs. I don't get the link to Straiton as the lochend deal did not include the stadium.


I fail to see how he "has done pretty well out of it" when the opinion of the accounts guys on this forum have him around £8m down from his involvement with Hibs.


STF or the parent company's loan facilities with a Bank which may, or may not be, provided against the collateral owned by Hibernian or its associated companies.

[PaulSmith]

new owners invest in Hibs - please, why would you invest in Hibs with real cash - I think you'll find people are more intrested in the assets - and would borrow against them puting us more in debt. No one in their right mind would put cash into a football club

I agree and see my post above as evidence.

[Kaiser1962]

STF or the parent company's loan facilities with a Bank which may, or may not be, provided against the collateral owned by Hibernian or its associated companies.

I recall there are original development costs still within STF's companies and not linked to Hibs in any way, around £5m. Essentially met by STF.

[ancient hibee]

[QUOTE=PaulSmith;4125046]I agree and see my post above as evidence.[/QUOTE

Hibs assets-the stadium and the training ground are held as security against the loans to pay for them as you would expect.

[DarlingtonHibee]

[QUOTE=PaulSmith;4125046]I agree and see my post above as evidence.[/QUOTE

Hibs assets-the stadium and the training ground are held as security against the loans to pay for them as you would expect.

In other words a financial plan that secures the long term security of our club.

[ancient hibee]

[QUOTE=ancient hibee;4125053]

In other words a financial plan that secures the long term security of our club.


Exactly.

[Jonnyboy]

stv news on at the moment
piece coming up on sports section later saying that Petrie standing in the way of a takeover

I listened to that and heard Low's statement being read out. To me it sounded like a pi55 poor attempt to get fan backing by targeting RP as the stumbling block

[DarlingtonHibee]

I listened to that and heard Low's statement being read out. To me it sounded like a pi55 poor attempt to get fan backing by targeting RP as the stumbling block

JC - there is a link somewhere (!!!) to Low's interview - never heard such bull**** in my life - this guy has no more intrest in Hibs than I have for the Jambos.

It's all getting a bit embarrassing....

They are NOT going to invest in Hibs

[ancient hibee]

David Low is a self publicist and not someone I would want to see in any kind of position at Hibs.

[Golden Bear]

I really wish all the politics could be put on the back burner for now as its overshadowing the football side of the business. First and foremost we've a Derby to win on Sunday.

[smurf]

I think we need to be careful of jumping to conclusions. The audio interview I listened to of David Low was fairly impressive. He spoke honestly. He didn't hide his Celtic support but he views this as a business opportunity for a club he obviously has respect for. He said that there would be investment on the playing side. I'd urge everyone to listen to it. I'm not saying that this is the answer or the solution but I think we need to remain open minded.

[sleeping giant]

I think we need to be careful of jumping to conclusions. The audio interview I listened to of David Low was fairly impressive. He spoke honestly. He didn't hide his Celtic support but he views this as a business opportunity for a club he obviously has respect for. He said that there would be investment on the playing side. I'd urge everyone to listen to it. I'm not saying that this is the answer or the solution but I think we need to remain open minded.

http://www.tsfm.net/podcast-episode-5-takeover-plans-for-hibernian/comment-page-2/#comment-27031

50 odd minutes long if anyone is interested.

[robinp]

As he only has 10% of Hibs - think this is unlikely

This - Sir Tom sells his 88% share holding, Petrie has no say in anything.

[Ken]

This - Sir Tom sells his 88% share holding, Petrie has no say in anything.

Not as easy as that. RP is looking after STF finances so he would have a huge influence

[robinp]

Not as easy as that. RP is looking after STF finances so he would have a huge influence

Of course he is, but I am specifically referring to this evenings news story that it's Rod is the one stopping takeover not STF's willingness to sell.

I didn't see the report but going by the chat on here it has at least be inferred on the news that STF would/wants to sell. My point is, as RP is a minority share holder, the potential owners don't need his shares, if STF wanted to sell they would gain a controlling interest and RP would not be able to influence much if anything.

[edwards]

I listened to that and heard Low's statement being read out. To me it sounded like a pi55 poor attempt to get fan backing by targeting RP as the stumbling block

I listened to it as well and thought he was very honest and open about all the questions he was asked. Talked about Hibs challenging for the spl or at the highest level. Felt he was looking for the fans approval and emphasised how important the fans were to the club. Emphasised his consortium had money to plough into the team which is what we need right now to take us forward.

Oh and that phanny petrie is a stumbling block now


Petrie GTF

[DarlingtonHibee]

I listened to it as well and thought he was very honest and open about all the questions he was asked. Talked about Hibs challenging for the spl or at the highest level. Felt he was looking for the fans approval and emphasised how important the fans were to the club. Emphasised his consortium had money to plough into the team which is what we need right now to take us forward.

Oh and that phanny petrie is a stumbling block now


Petrie GTF

Did he say how much money - LOL :faf:

[The Falcon]

This - Sir Tom sells his 88% share holding, Petrie has no say in anything.

Pretty much. And I don't think Petrie and Farmer will be in disagreement on anything.

[DarlingtonHibee]

I think we need to be careful of jumping to conclusions. The audio interview I listened to of David Low was fairly impressive. He spoke honestly. He didn't hide his Celtic support but he views this as a business opportunity for a club he obviously has respect for. He said that there would be investment on the playing side. I'd urge everyone to listen to it. I'm not saying that this is the answer or the solution but I think we need to remain open minded.

Fairly impressive in terms of sound bites, but jack all else for Hibs.

Investment on the playing side - aye... who is paying for it ?

[blackpoolhibs]

I listened and while impressed with what he had to say, i know nothing about him or how well off he is? Yet after saying that, we have a super rich man who owns us, and we are in the 2nd tier of Scottish football, he's hardly our saviour these days.

[blackpoolhibs]

Fairly impressive in terms of sound bites, but jack all else for Hibs.

Investment on the playing side - aye... who is paying for it ?

Who pays for the investment in the playing side now?

[DarlingtonHibee]

Who pays for the investment in the playing side now?

STF never promised to plough cash into the team.

This guy is saying he / they will invest in the team - sorry, don't believe that - business people are looking for a minimum 15% ROI per annum - not going to happen at any Scottish football club.

[bighairyfaeleith]

Who pays for the investment in the playing side now?

We do, it's always been us and always will be us. So unless you are going to stump up more cash then you are chasing a fantasy.

[bingo70]

Who pays for the investment in the playing side now?

The fans mainly.

If new owners were to come in and rack up big debts buying a good team I'd be quite up for that as long as we paid it all back. Don't see the problem with us accruing debt while showing ambition.

This necessity to break even or make a profit every year is pish. I think some folk get more excited about our bank statement than we do winning games.

[blackpoolhibs]

STF never promised to plough cash into the team.

This guy is saying he / they will invest in the team - sorry, don't believe that - business people are looking for a minimum 15% ROI per annum - not going to happen at any Scottish football club.

Just because you don't believe it, doesn't mean he's not serious? Plus he never said he was on his own, there are others who are involved, do you know who these people are, i don't?

Perhaps they have money to invest, or perhaps they are just better business men, who could run the club better than the current owner? The current owner has actually guided us to the 2nd tier of football in Scotland, and really has little interest in us.

[blackpoolhibs]

We do, it's always been us and always will be us. So unless you are going to stump up more cash then you are chasing a fantasy.


The fans mainly.

If new owners were to come in and rack up big debts buying a good team I'd be quite up for that as long as we paid it all back. Don't see the problem with us accruing debt while showing ambition.

This necessity to break even or make a profit every year is pish. I think some folk get more excited about our bank statement than we do winning games.

:agree:

[DarlingtonHibee]

Just because you don't believe it, doesn't mean he's not serious? Plus he never said he was on his own, there are others who are involved, do you know who these people are, i don't?

Perhaps they have money to invest, or perhaps they are just better business men, who could run the club better than the current owner? The current owner has actually guided us to the 2nd tier of football in Scotland, and really has little interest in us.


BH
I'm out !! who knows maybe Charles Green might save us :greengrin

[HibbyKeith]

The fans mainly.

If new owners were to come in and rack up big debts buying a good team I'd be quite up for that as long as we paid it all back. Don't see the problem with us accruing debt while showing ambition.

This necessity to break even or make a profit every year is pish. I think some folk get more excited about our bank statement than we do winning games.

:agree:

It's the speculate to accumulate argument all over again.

Without the fans backing the prospective new owners have no way to make the business a profitable one, they would have to whip up a bit of a fan frenzy and get lapsed supporters excited by the idea that hibs are going places, This would only be done by some form of on pitch investments, which in turn produces a team on the park challenging at the right end of the table and in the money making stages of cup competitions.

The fans are there they just want an incentive to come back. A new owner would need to give them that from the get go or its a failed plan to begin with.

[blackpoolhibs]

BH
I'm out !! who knows maybe Charles Green might save us :greengrin

I dont believe it. :wink:

[smurf]

Fairly impressive in terms of sound bites, but jack all else for Hibs.

Investment on the playing side - aye... who is paying for it ?

At some point whether you like it or not our club will move on to new ownership. If we are going to be rash in forming conclusions it's going to do nobody any favours. We should remain open minded and let them explain their plans.

[SanFranHibs]

STF never promised to plough cash into the team.

This guy is saying he / they will invest in the team - sorry, don't believe that - business people are looking for a minimum 15% ROI per annum - not going to happen at any Scottish football club.

You're not trying to bring the flag debate into this thread are you???? :wink:

Do any of the 'prospective' buyers seem like they might be in it for the long haul?

Wish STF would be a bit more forthcoming regarding his aims for Hibs at this point in time. Bottom line is, I trust him at least in regards of trying to ensure the well being of the club even though we all think the fiscal straighjtacket has killed the team if not the club.

Not saying that the interested parties have the same motives or indeed level of incompetence of the businessmen who made such at mess at Ibrox and Tynecastle, however it just proves to me that it can happen and a lot easier than I would have thought 20 years ago.

[Green Cabbage 7]

Does anyone think that these business men think they could take hibs to the champions league, and that money from that could be invested in the club, it could be that these business men see hibs as able to challenge, everything is in place and at the moment it would not take much to be challenging Celtic, they aren't that great, just a thought!

[blackpoolhibs]

Does anyone think that these business men think they could take hibs to the champions league, and that money from that could be invested in the club, it could be that these business men see hibs as able to challenge, everything is in place and at the moment it would not take much to be challenging Celtic, they aren't that great, just a thought!

No i don't, but i also don't think any new owner will take us down the Leeds United or Portsmouth route.

[timewilltell]

Does anyone think that these business men think they could take hibs to the champions league, and that money from that could be invested in the club, it could be that these business men see hibs as able to challenge, everything is in place and at the moment it would not take much to be challenging Celtic, they aren't that great, just a thought!

Isn't that what Romanov thought......?

[Kato]

Does anyone think that these business men think they could take hibs to the champions league, and that money from that could be invested in the club,


Do you?

[sleeping giant]

Does anyone think that these business men think they could take hibs to the champions league, and that money from that could be invested in the club, it could be that these business men see hibs as able to challenge, everything is in place and at the moment it would not take much to be challenging Celtic, they aren't that great, just a thought!

Couple of world cup stars and we are sorted :aok:

[SanFranHibs]

Isn't that what Romanov thought......?

He 'guaranteed' it !!

[Jonnyboy]

I listened to it as well and thought he was very honest and open about all the questions he was asked. Talked about Hibs challenging for the spl or at the highest level. Felt he was looking for the fans approval and emphasised how important the fans were to the club. Emphasised his consortium had money to plough into the team which is what we need right now to take us forward.

Oh and that phanny petrie is a stumbling block now


Petrie GTF

Sorry, confusion here. I listened to his press release being read out, not his audio interview and my comments were based on that. It just struck me that aiming his ire at RP was a not so subtle attempt to get the Hibs fans onboard

[edwards]

I think we need to be careful of jumping to conclusions. The audio interview I listened to of David Low was fairly impressive. He spoke honestly. He didn't hide his Celtic support but he views this as a business opportunity for a club he obviously has respect for. He said that there would be investment on the playing side. I'd urge everyone to listen to it. I'm not saying that this is the answer or the solution but I think we need to remain open minded.

Totaly smurf everyone has to listen to this a couple of times to get a better understanding of what David Low is prepared to do for the club, he was part of Fergus Mcanns team that successfully turned Celtic around after living out of their biscuit tin for donkeys years. Our box of Tesco's finest is getting pretty empty and although I am indebted to Tom Farmer and Rop Petrie they have taken the club as far as they can go.
It's time for fresh blood and David Low has that experiance of turning a club around. His USA backers may also be able to get investment into the club which will also help turn the club around.

[GreenLake]

Fairly impressive in terms of sound bites, but jack all else for Hibs.

Investment on the playing side - aye... who is paying for it ?

I thought the guy sounded quite interesting as a business type who likes football at a financial level. Like you I was wondering who the other consortium members were and in particular if there was one who had ultra high net worth willing to invest in team building. I guess we just have to wait and see if STF will be convinced about this group enough to let them thumb through the books at Hibs. If this guy was involved with Celtic takeover and isn't involved there now, perhaps his niche activity is to negotiate the takeovers for rich investors who just want to sign the papers and take the keys. I'll die if he secretly represents Vlad.

[Green Cabbage 7]

Isn't that what Romanov thought......?

Yes but, we all know Romanov was a balloon, hearts never actually made the champions league, they were put out at the qualifiers, the money rolls in actually in the league stage proper, anyway Romanov was always sinking that ship! Besides they were already In debt pre Romanov, to the tune of around 25million if memory serves me correct!

[Green Cabbage 7]

Do you?

Yes, Celtic are no great shakes at the moment, not saying they won't or can't get it right. But I don't think it would cost that much to get the players in to challenge at the moment, granted we need to get promoted first, but if we have the right manager etc, not somebody who just throws money around, but someone who can piece a team together why not!

[SanFranHibs]

Does anyone think that these business men think they could take hibs to the champions league, and that money from that could be invested in the club, it could be that these business men see hibs as able to challenge, everything is in place and at the moment it would not take much to be challenging Celtic, they aren't that great, just a thought!

This does sound like Romanov !!!

Yes, we could challenge Celtic assuming we get back up, assuming we pump millions into the team and assuming Celtic, Aberdeen, Dundee Utd and Motherwell do nothing about it. And then if we ever win the SPL we might just have 3 rounds of CL qualifying to get through and land up hoping the oppostition plays ineligble players for us to makle the money stages!

Far be it from me to not have ambition for Hibs I do worry about who might take us over and what their motives are. I know we will at some point be sold but we are already in debt. Not huge but say for arguments sake 9 million in total. (On here the figures quoted varies from 6+ to 12+). How would we proceed. Add to the debt immediately? Spend and perhaps not win?

I do believe debt is inevitable for most teams and I do believe we should be investing to improve but it has to be done in the knowledge that we are safe as a club. God forbid we should ever get bought over by someone who screws us up so badly, they take us into admin and then apply to our Jambo Edinburgh Council for permission to build flats at ER or something like that. They would have it rubber stamped before the ink was dry on the application. I know, doomsday scenario but with our existing debt it would not take a huge amount for Hibs to be in big trouble. About 15 million in debt and not winning much?

And how much would be need to challenge for the SPL title, because if we are not challenging for it why spend a lot of money? AND I AM NOT TRYING TO TURN THIS INTO ANOTHERM GRIFFITHS THREAD, not even to see Steve's GIF's, but I thought when we had the chance to sign Griffiths or at lewast try to sign him, that is the sort of gamble we should have taken. And I said so at the time. Before he returned to Wolves and prior to Celtics involvement we should have offered between 500k and 600k. If we had to go to 750k so what. I think Wolves would have taken it. I might be corrected here but I don't recall much interst prior to Celtic. That to me would have been a good 'gamble'. How much would he have had to pay him per week? Before Celtic got involved he was probably on what? 3k, 4k, 5k a week? We could have said, 'Leigh, 6k a week' and I tell you 6,000 fans would only have to pay 1 pound a week. I said this at the time knowing it was fanciful although I would have gone for it.

And my point about the Griffiths situation is if Hibs are not going to 'gamble/invest' (delete as applicable) between 500k and 750k on the guy who had just scored nearly 60% (I think) of our goals that season when are we ever going to 'invest'? A bit of creative financing and Hibs probably would still be in the SPL, Season Ticket sales would be higher and at the old rate and we might not be paying TB's fishing holiday as we might never have gone to him.

I am just on overload I think as I had just gotten over our relegation, starting to feel excited about what Stubbs has achieved in a short time and now we have the takeover bids and should we sell and expect real investment and I say real investment because when a buyer says we will invest in the team that is so open ended. You could buy one crap player and have invested in the team. We have invested in the team every year. Just not much and not very wisely. Also, it would just introduce uncertainty vis a vis manager, LD and other staff. One huge distraction in a season in which we need only to focus on getting out of the Championship.

Well, I've talked enough crap for the night. In fact I think enough to keep me going until Sundays game.

I am off to do a little more HTML5/Javascript programming to 'clear' my head. Or I have some Accounting tutorials on video I might watch.

:dizzy:

[edwards]

This does sound like Romanov !!!

Yes, we could challenge Celtic assuming we get back up, assuming we pump millions into the team and assuming Celtic, Aberdeen, Dundee Utd and Motherwell do nothing about it. And then if we ever win the SPL we might just have 3 rounds of CL qualifying to get through and land up hoping the oppostition plays ineligble players for us to makle the money stages!

Far be it from me to not have ambition for Hibs I do worry about who might take us over and what their motives are. I know we will at some point be sold but we are already in debt. Not huge but say for arguments sake 9 million in total. (On here the figures quoted varies from 6+ to 12+). How would we proceed. Add to the debt immediately? Spend and perhaps not win?

I do believe debt is inevitable for most teams and I do believe we should be investing to improve but it has to be done in the knowledge that we are safe as a club. God forbid we should ever get bought over by someone who screws us up so badly, they take us into admin and then apply to our Jambo Edinburgh Council for permission to build flats at ER or something like that. They would have it rubber stamped before the ink was dry on the application. I know, doomsday scenario but with our existing debt it would not take a huge amount for Hibs to be in big trouble. About 15 million in debt and not winning much?

And how much would be need to challenge for the SPL title, because if we are not challenging for it why spend a lot of money? AND I AM NOT TRYING TO TURN THIS INTO ANOTHERM GRIFFITHS THREAD, not even to see Steve's GIF's, but I thought when we had the chance to sign Griffiths or at lewast try to sign him, that is the sort of gamble we should have taken. And I said so at the time. Before he returned to Wolves and prior to Celtics involvement we should have offered between 500k and 600k. If we had to go to 750k so what. I think Wolves would have taken it. I might be corrected here but I don't recall much interst prior to Celtic. That to me would have been a good 'gamble'. How much would he have had to pay him per week? Before Celtic got involved he was probably on what? 3k, 4k, 5k a week? We could have said, 'Leigh, 6k a week' and I tell you 6,000 fans would only have to pay 1 pound a week. I said this at the time knowing it was fanciful although I would have gone for it.

And my point about the Griffiths situation is if Hibs are not going to 'gamble/invest' (delete as applicable) between 500k and 750k on the guy who had just scored nearly 60% (I think) of our goals that season when are we ever going to 'invest'? A bit of creative financing and Hibs probably would still be in the SPL, Season Ticket sales would be higher and at the old rate and we might not be paying TB's fishing holiday as we might never have gone to him.

I am just on overload I think as I had just gotten over our relegation, starting to feel excited about what Stubbs has achieved in a short time and now we have the takeover bids and should we sell and expect real investment and I say real investment because when a buyer says we will invest in the team that is so open ended. You could buy one crap player and have invested in the team. We have invested in the team every year. Just not much and not very wisely. Also, it would just introduce uncertainty vis a vis manager, LD and other staff. One huge distraction in a season in which we need only to focus on getting out of the Championship.

Well, I've talked enough crap for the night. In fact I think enough to keep me going until Sundays game.

I am off to do a little more HTML5/Javascript programming to 'clear' my head. Or I have some Accounting tutorials on video I might watch.

:dizzy:

David Low said in his interview he would be looking at not changing to much and looking to change things on the park that would be his main focus and hoping to attract fans back to Er he maintained that the hibs support have had a dissapointing few years now and need the feel good factor back in the team.
Imagine what the support would be if we had a successful team on the park.

[sleeping giant]

David Low said in his interview he would be looking at not changing to much and looking to change things on the park that would be his main focus and hoping to attract fans back to Er he maintained that the hibs support have had a dissapointing few years now and need the feel good factor back in the team.
Imagine what the support would be if we had a successful team on the park.



Brian Kennedy said similar did he not.

[Green Cabbage 7]

David Low said in his interview he would be looking at not changing to much and looking to change things on the park that would be his main focus and hoping to attract fans back to Er he maintained that the hibs support have had a dissapointing few years now and need the feel good factor back in the team.
Imagine what the support would be if we had a successful team on the park.


Just out of interest let's say, hibs had a successful team on the park, hypothetically how much would a sold out 20,000 seated stadium bring in, not adding merchandise or any other revenue stream,like sponsors and other useages for the stadium or even east mains, how much roughly? Just thinking to produce a decent side, I know that it would take time to get easter road full but I don't think it would be out of reach!

[down-the-slope]

The fans mainly.

If new owners were to come in and rack up big debts buying a good team I'd be quite up for that as long as we paid it all back. Don't see the problem with us accruing debt while showing ambition.

This necessity to break even or make a profit every year is pish. I think some folk get more excited about our bank statement than we do winning games.

FFP is the problem. Unless we get an owner who owns a massive company who can 'sponsor' us as an income there is limitations on what we can do above 'revenue'.....bottom line is as always what the support brings in through what it spends is the main income..no sign of big TV / sponsorship deals etc to increase revenues is likely giving Scotland's place in the pecking order of world football. The most likely source of windfall money that falls within FFP is player sales....one of the reasons the Academy structure and recruitment has been over hauled.

Even what were possible i don't fancy being it done on leverage of our hard earned and yet not fully paid for infrastructure assets. (unless RP was mega shrewd and huge bit of the unused land at EM will soon become designated for housing expansion in new EL plan :confused:....i'll ask planning convener in couple of weeks when i see him)

[Keith_M]

Just out of interest let's say, hibs had a successful team on the park, hypothetically how much would a sold out 20,000 seated stadium bring in, not adding merchandise or any other revenue stream,like sponsors and other useages for the stadium or even east mains, how much roughly? Just thinking to produce a decent side, I know that it would take time to get easter road full but I don't think it would be out of reach!


My feeling is that you're living in a fantasy land.

If any rich businessman really wanted to buy a club to challenge in Europe, they would start where there is a chance of getting big money from TV, i.e. England.

In the highly unilkey event we managed to get 20,000 people at ER every week, that still wouldn't guarantee that we could compete with Celtc, never mind in Europe. And in case you hadn't noticed, Celtc just got humped 6-1 in the CL qualifiers by a much smaller Polish team.

[Keith_M]

My Dad told me that a Hibs Fan won 7 million on the Lottery at the weekend.


If true, that could be another source of funding :wink:

[RIP]

The only way forward for us as a club is to live within our means. To me that presents 3 choices for ownership, each with a different level of risk

Can we assume for the moment that two Celtic-supporting businessmen aren't any cleverer that Hibs-supporting businessmen? :greengrin


HFC Holdings stays on in perpetuity with Rod taking over from STF. The main risk here is the continuing decline of the football club
Business groups with no previous contacts with Hibs buy the club from HFC. The main risk there has been demonstrated in the sagas at Rangers, Hearts and Gretna
A group of Hibs-Supporting businessmen, advised by Supporters Direct take over on a planned transition basis with some element of supporter shareholding. I see this as the least risky option provided those businessmen are not split across different bid groups, a strong business leader emerges out of the pack and STF/RP trust the group to secure the club's future. The Mail article made reference to a 'rainbow coalition' of Hibs groups which sounds very promising.


I'm still hoping that Option 3 will turn out to be the one that most supporters stand behind

[Juice-Terry]

My Dad told me that a Hibs Fan won 7 million on the Lottery at the weekend.


If true, that could be another source of funding :wink:

I heard s/he got half the jackpot. Cetainly more than enough to bring Super Leigh back. :flag:

[NAE NOOKIE]

My feeling is that you're living in a fantasy land.

If any rich businessman really wanted to buy a club to challenge in Europe, they would start where there is a chance of getting big money from TV, i.e. England.

In the highly unilkey event we managed to get 20,000 people at ER every week, that still wouldn't guarantee that we could compete with Celtc, never mind in Europe. And in case you hadn't noticed, Celtc just got humped 6-1 in the CL qualifiers by a much smaller Polish team.

Agree that us ever getting 20,000 every week is rather fanciful .... 14,000 isn't though.

To get a team into Europe in England would need a business man with billions not millions .... the TV money is incidental as all EPL clubs get mega money from that. It would take far far less to make a Scottish club Euro regulars than an English club. How you then go about making them a success in Europe is a different matter, but we are talking group stages of the Europa league, not the CL .... That is a fantasy reserved for Yams ... the CL is a rich mans playground and will never be for us.

I don't feel bad or defeatist saying that .... the so called champions league is designed by UEFA and their masters at European television to be that way, its supposed to exclude clubs like us.

[Ozyhibby]

Think it's a good interview. He didn't dodge any questions and answers honestly.
He was part of what many people think was the most successful ownership of any Scottish football club (McCann's tenure at Celtic) so he has experience and comparisons with Green and Whyte are way of the mark.
I don't care who he supported previously and I'm pleased that he was honest about that.
He deserves a fair hearing IMO.

[Ozyhibby]

New ownership is a must for the club as we are sinking under the current regime. It's just a matter of the fans backing the right owner or buying the club ourselves.

[Keith_M]

We can only wish. Listened to the Low interview and he seemed genuine enough and intimating that on the field investment would be there and there would be the possibility of fan representation on the board. Spoke to a friend last night who knows Low's daughter and he said he is the real deal. Also Frank Lynch has some serious money. Think Macpherson's involvement is to appease the fans considering the two others are Tic fans


I don't want Hibs to be bought by Celtc Fans. Does that sound petty?

The truth is, I'd much rather have people take over that genuinely cared about the club than some opportunists whose allegiances are at Celtc Park.

[J-C]

I don't want Hibs to be bought by Celtc Fans. Does that sound petty?

The truth is, I'd much rather have people take over that genuinely cared about the club than some opportunists whose allegiances are at Celtc Park.

We have an owner who isn't a Hibs fan same as the chairman, both rugby men and in Petrie's case put there by STF to look after his investment, STF bought Hibs way back because he's a Leither and didn't want the club going to that lot.

[Keith_M]

We have an owner who isn't a Hibs fan same as the chairman, both rugby men and in Petrie's case put there by STF to look after his investment, STF bought Hibs way back because he's a Leither and didn't want the club going to that lot.


I know all that and it doesn't bother me as much as it would if they were both Celtc Fans.

STF declared he felt a connection to the club because it was his home town team, which is better than having no link whatsoever. Even under him, though, I think we suffered through his lack of interest in the success of Hibs on the pitch.

[Keith_M]

I heard s/he got half the jackpot. Cetainly more than enough to bring Super Leigh back.


Looks like it was just one guy (http://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/7m-lotto-winner-celebrates-jackpot-scoop-1-3506572) that won the jackpot after all and not shared.

[down-the-slope]

I don't want Hibs to be bought by Celtc Fans. Does that sound petty?

The truth is, I'd much rather have people take over that genuinely cared about the club than some opportunists whose allegiances are at Celtc Park.

All of us care about 'the club' ... but the vast vast majority of us would be totally rubbish at running it...that's what I don't with a lot of the sentiment about owners.

The days of the local publican / bookie etc buying his boyhood local club and running it are long gone (and if we are honest then a fair number of them were like private fiefdoms)

Andy Murray cares about the club...and has cash...does that make him suitable to take over the club?

[J-C]

I know all that and it doesn't bother me as much as it would if they were both Celtc Fans.

STF declared he felt a connection to the club because it was his home town team, which is better than having no link whatsoever. Even under him, though, I think we suffered through his lack of interest in the success of Hibs on the pitch.

That's basically what I'm getting at, pretty sure fergus McCann bought Celtic without really being an out and out fan, I think it was a pure business deal, he said he'd build them a stadium, make them financially secure and he told them exactly what he was going to amke from the deal. Look at Celtic compared to the other uglt half of Glasgow, skint and begging for money. We've been well run financially but to the detrement of the playing side, that needs to change of we'll always be the team that should've been instead of the team that did.

[Beefster]

I'm sceptical of any consortium that tries to take advantage of the current situation at the club for their own benefit.

Where were these guys when we were muddling along in the Premiership and could have done with some investment?

[Phil MaGlass]

I'm sceptical of any consortium that tries to take advantage of the current situation at the club for their own benefit.

Where were these guys when we were muddling along in the Premiership and could have done with some investment?

maybe we are now worth less and it looks appetising, anyhoos, I am on the fence about this as I really dont know what to make of it, on the one hand, we really need some serious investment, on the other, it cant be from people who dont have the clubs interests at heart, the only people that will know about that would hopefully be Mr farmer himself and david Low.

[Ross4356]

The club assets are already mortgaged to the tune of £ 12 million. A successful bidder would be required to take over and secure that debt to the satisfaction of the lender.

Are you saying Hibs debt is £12m

[Smartie]

I have to say I hate the very mention of the word "investment" in this context and question why any sane businessman would want to get involved with a Scottish football club unless they had an emotional involvement with that team.

As was alluded to in relation to The Rangers etc previously, investors are people who invest their money whilst looking for a financial return. Realistically that return is going to come directly out of the pockets of our fans.

Personally I'd prefer to have "Hibs-minded" people on the board who didn't necessary have huge financial backing than any businessman without previous links to our club. STF has been invaluable over the years for lending us credibility when sourcing good deals on credit we have needed. That would be all I would be wanting from someone financially. The sooner we are debt-free the better.

All I want is to see every penny that the fans plough into our club used as effectively and efficiently as possible and we most certainly cannot say that that has been done over the past few years.

And I'm also not convinced that we should have too many fans involved either, given that so many of them believe that "speculate to accumulate" is an acceptable way to go.

Whilst there's tons to disagree with about the way our club has been run over the past few years, the fact that the long-term survival of the club has been prioritised should really never be questioned.

[CropleyWasGod]

I have to say I hate the very mention of the word "investment" in this context and question why any sane businessman would want to get involved with a Scottish football club unless they had an emotional involvement with that team.

As was alluded to in relation to The Rangers etc previously, investors are people who invest their money whilst looking for a financial return. Realistically that return is going to come directly out of the pockets of our fans.

Personally I'd prefer to have "Hibs-minded" people on the board who didn't necessary have huge financial backing than any businessman without previous links to our club. STF has been invaluable over the years for lending us credibility when sourcing good deals on credit we have needed. That would be all I would be wanting from someone financially. The sooner we are debt-free the better.

All I want is to see every penny that the fans plough into our club used as effectively and efficiently as possible and we most certainly cannot say that that has been done over the past few years.

And I'm also not convinced that we should have too many fans involved either, given that so many of them believe that "speculate to accumulate" is an acceptable way to go.

Whilst there's tons to disagree with about the way our club has been run over the past few years, the fact that the long-term survival of the club has been prioritised should really never be questioned.

Taking those two paragraphs together, are you saying that all the money the fans put in should be used to clear our debt?

Personally, I see no problem in our having long-term debt, as long as it is properly structured, secured and serviced.

[RIP]

All of us care about 'the club' ... but the vast vast majority of us would be totally rubbish at running it...that's what I don't with a lot of the sentiment about owners.

The days of the local publican / bookie etc buying his boyhood local club and running it are long gone (and if we are honest then a fair number of them were like private fiefdoms)

Andy Murray cares about the club...and has cash...does that make him suitable to take over the club?

Not sure where you are going with your publican/bookie comparison JB. At Saints the local house builders own the club. As at Aberdeen. Self-made men, tough businessmen, football fans, proven entrepreneurs. Good relationship with their managers and a shared passion for the game.

These people exist in Edinburgh in spades. Rod didn't fit that profile. I've no doubt he's a great administrator and accountant. What let him down in his stewardship was man-management, communications, vision and leadership. To be fair it was also the error of judgement of trying to be both a chair and CEO in order to save the club money. It's not easy to play goalkeeper and striker simultaneously.

So whilst I've no doubt that the 2 Celtic lads bring some business credentials I'm not sure Sir Tom or Rod will need to look past our country's capital and top UK financial centre to find a business leader or consortium capable of good stewardship of a medium size business with turnover well under £10 million per annum?

[Smartie]

Taking those two paragraphs together, are you saying that all the money the fans put in should be used to clear our debt?

Personally, I see no problem in our having long-term debt, as long as it is properly structured, secured and serviced.

Sorry - didn't put that too well.

It's a balancing act and I have no problem with well-structured long-term debt. It could be disastrous to prioritise reducing manageable debt over the team.

I would just like to see us free of debt as soon as is possible. As long as we have debt, I think we have a need for a guarantor for that debt. STF has been good for us in that regard because you cannot question his motives in being involved with us. When he goes it opens us up to be at the mercy of all sorts of unscrupulous characters.

A debt-free club would be less reliant on such individuals.

[BSEJVT]

I have no problem with a change of ownership.

I do have problems with the motivation and expectation of these potential owners.

If their motivation is to see a return on their investment they can 100% forget it.

They would need to be the luckiest folk in the word to unearth a never ending stream of sellable youngsters which is the only way any Scottish team will ever make sufficient monies to be considered a viable return on investment.

If their expectation is that they can return the club to competing regularly at the top of the league and the latter stages of cups, then that should be a given in the current climate.

What that wont do however is produce a return on their investments as even under such circumstances IMO our maximum regular attendance would peak at some way short of £15k, without achieving substantially increased commercial income that's barely enough to break even.

My worry over any potential owner is what happens when their vision isn't realised and the club struggles year on year to break even.

What happens if their personal wealth comes under pressure because of their support of the club or because of a downturn effecting their business.

You don't need to look to far to see the consequences.

Maybe be shouldn't worry about the next owner but the one after that and how choosy that next owner or their family might be to whom they sell to.

I want my great grand children to watch Hibs and their after them.

For that reason I have no great expectation of or desire for an owner throwing cash at the club and would prefer a community / fan ownership model to safeguard the clubs future.

Maybe if that came to pass, ordinary people would be prepared to support the club financially by making regular monthly charitable like donations or by a " Foundation of Hearts" type commitment.

The thought of becoming an investors plaything is far less appealing to me than the status quo

[bingo70]

"You don't need to look far to see the consequences"

Aye, in the league we're in anyway but with 2 Scottish cups and a champions league qualifier to show for it.

[Glorious St Pat]

I have no problem with a change of ownership.

I do have problems with the motivation and expectation of these potential owners.

If their motivation is to see a return on their investment they can 100% forget it.

They would need to be the luckiest folk in the word to unearth a never ending stream of sellable youngsters which is the only way any Scottish team will ever make sufficient monies to be considered a viable return on investment.

If their expectation is that they can return the club to competing regularly at the top of the league and the latter stages of cups, then that should be a given in the current climate.

What that wont do however is produce a return on their investments as even under such circumstances IMO our maximum regular attendance would peak at some way short of £15k, without achieving substantially increased commercial income that's barely enough to break even.

My worry over any potential owner is what happens when their vision isn't realised and the club struggles year on year to break even.

What happens if their personal wealth comes under pressure because of their support of the club or because of a downturn effecting their business.

You don't need to look to far to see the consequences.

Maybe be shouldn't worry about the next owner but the one after that and how choosy that next owner or their family might be to whom they sell to.

I want my great grand children to watch Hibs and their after them.

For that reason I have no great expectation of or desire for an owner throwing cash at the club and would prefer a community / fan ownership model to safeguard the clubs future.

Maybe if that came to pass, ordinary people would be prepared to support the club financially by making regular monthly charitable like donations or by a " Foundation of Hearts" type commitment.

The thought of becoming an investors plaything is far less appealing to me than the status quo

The Low interview talked about a more level playing field in football terms with Hibs being a good prospect to challenge. Today's Kano article suggests a similar model to the Hearts foundation with him actively talking to investors. I will give both bids time to bed in before I judge but the current situation is not realising our potential and ambitions.

[Golden Bear]

Yet still the official party line is:-

" There are no offers being actively pursued by the club or its owners"

[offshorehibby]

The Low interview talked about a more level playing field in football terms with Hibs being a good prospect to challenge. Today's Kano article suggests a similar model to the Hearts foundation with him actively talking to investors. I will give both bids time to bed in before I judge but the current situation is not realising our potential and ambitions.

Where was Kano's article

[Ozyhibby]

The Low interview talked about a more level playing field in football terms with Hibs being a good prospect to challenge. Today's Kano article suggests a similar model to the Hearts foundation with him actively talking to investors. I will give both bids time to bed in before I judge but the current situation is not realising our potential and ambitions.

Last sentence the most important. The current ownership is a busted flush. We need to move on. It's good to have two choices (so far) to make a decision on.

[Glorious St Pat]

Where was Kano's article

http://m.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/football/hibs/paul-kane-reveals-the-plans-for-forever-hibernian-1-3472316

There you go

[Glorious St Pat]

Sorry just noticed the article is from July. Kano did say at last Thurs St Pats meeting that a formal announcement would be made this week.

[Juice-Terry]

Looks like it was just one guy (http://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/7m-lotto-winner-celebrates-jackpot-scoop-1-3506572) that won the jackpot after all and not shared.

Sorry, I thought it was the Hibs lottery we were talking about.

[Glorious St Pat]

Evening news article with Low refusing to name other investors until the bid
Passed. The article states: "it looks as if it's going to proceed". Don't see this being picked up upon. Low seems confident. Also, he states he was approached by a couple of friends in Edinburgh about buying the club. Who are these couple of friends? Could they be well known Edinbyrgh businessmen?

[bingo70]

Evening news article with Low refusing to name other investors until the bid
Passed. The article states: "it looks as if it's going to proceed". Don't see this being picked up upon. Low seems confident. Also, he states he was approached by a couple of friends in Edinburgh about buying the club. Who are these couple of friends? Could they be well known Edinbyrgh businessmen?

I actually typed out a similar post earlier but decided not to post as was at work and wouldn't have had time to read responses.

I was thinking though that what he's said was all posturing though and designed to put pressure on petrie and co?

Nae idea though

[stantonhibby]

Evening news article with Low refusing to name other investors until the bid
Passed. The article states: "it looks as if it's going to proceed". Don't see this being picked up upon. Low seems confident. Also, he states he was approached by a couple of friends in Edinburgh about buying the club. Who are these couple of friends? Could they be well known Edinbyrgh businessmen?

He actually states he will name the investors if the bid is accepted and if " it looks like its going to proceed" which is rather different to what you are suggesting.

[Keith_M]

Sorry, I thought it was the Hibs lottery we were talking about.


No probs.

Apparently the guy is a Hibby, so a big well done.

[Glorious St Pat]

He actually states he will name the investors if the bid is accepted and if " it looks like its going to proceed" which is rather different to what you are suggesting.

Apologies Stanton. Quote should be "I am not going to give the names of these people just now unless our offer is accepted and it looks as if it's going to proceed". Straight from today's EEN.

It's interesting to do some google searches on David Low especially on a recent charitable pilgrimage to Spain and note who sponsored him. Some well Kent faces donated money!

[down-the-slope]

Not sure where you are going with your publican/bookie comparison JB. At Saints the local house builders own the club. As at Aberdeen. Self-made men, tough businessmen, football fans, proven entrepreneurs. Good relationship with their managers and a shared passion for the game.

These people exist in Edinburgh in spades. Rod didn't fit that profile. I've no doubt he's a great administrator and accountant. What let him down in his stewardship was man-management, communications, vision and leadership. To be fair it was also the error of judgement of trying to be both a chair and CEO in order to save the club money. It's not easy to play goalkeeper and striker simultaneously.

So whilst I've no doubt that the 2 Celtic lads bring some business credentials I'm not sure Sir Tom or Rod will need to look past our country's capital and top UK financial centre to find a business leader or consortium capable of good stewardship of a medium size business with turnover well under £10 million per annum?

But how long have they been in this position 20 + years like STF? what i'm saying is that 20 years further on the amounts required to buy an SPl club is significantly more in real terms and those that could as less likely (like STF was / is) to want it to deflect from their main businesses activities. Previously business men made money out of football (plastic bags collecting cash at the turnstyles ring any bells?) while players were paid a pittance and infrastructure was urine soaked blaze wedged between old railway sleepers.....

in other words...costs more to get involved with less chance of getting anything out of it - and if they do its coming out of our pockets...

[bingo70]

Apologies Stanton. Quote should be "I am not going to give the names of these people just now unless our offer is accepted and it looks as if it's going to proceed". Straight from today's EEN.

It's interesting to do some google searches on David Low especially on a recent charitable pilgrimage to Spain and note who sponsored him. Some well Kent faces donated money!

Kevin Doyle? He's a hibs fan that's got the pubs eh?

[Glorious St Pat]

See the link....mmm some well Kent Edinburghers on that list. Could they be the friends that approached him?

https://www.justgiving.com/davidlow/2/

[silverhibee]

See the link....mmm some well Kent Edinburghers on that list. Could they be the friends that approached him?

https://www.justgiving.com/davidlow/2/

Apart from Doyle who else you talking about.

[Ozyhibby]

Apart from Doyle who else you talking about.

Peter lawell
Only £50.
Tight git

[Glorious St Pat]

Apart from Doyle who else you talking about.

There was Sean as well. Peter Lawwell on the list too. Just trying to do some detective work. Did hear the Doyle rumour a while ago... So could this be a goer? What is the connection between the two?

[Beefster]

There was Sean as well. Peter Lawwell on the list too. Just trying to do some detective work. Did hear the Doyle rumour a while ago... So could this be a goer? What is the connection between the two?

You're basing all this on who sponsored Low on a charity walk?

[Glorious St Pat]

Well I'm trying! Is it possible that the two are friends and business associates?

[bingo70]

You're basing all this on who sponsored Low on a charity walk?

Tbf I don't think he's basing anything on it.

He's noticed a possible link to a wealthy hibs fan and highlighted it.

[DarlingtonHibee]

Low - "“I am not going to give the names of these people just now unless our offer is accepted and it looks as if it’s going to proceed. At that point everybody that’s involved in the consortium will have their details released. There will be absolute transparency, everything will become crystal clear.”

I really think it is time for a statement from Hibs to clear up this bollocks.

We as fans have little say, but I'd be keen to see the business model, and the people behind this so called bid - I doubt it exists, but hey good PR for Low.

[blackpoolhibs]

Low - "“I am not going to give the names of these people just now unless our offer is accepted and it looks as if it’s going to proceed. At that point everybody that’s involved in the consortium will have their details released. There will be absolute transparency, everything will become crystal clear.”

I really think it is time for a statement from Hibs to clear up this bollocks.

We as fans have little say, but I'd be keen to see the business model, and the people behind this so called bid - I doubt it exists, but hey good PR for Low.

I thought you had bowed out of this? :greengrin

[DarlingtonHibee]

I thought you had bowed out of this? :greengrin

I had, but three pints of stella and I'm back :greengrin

[Glorious St Pat]

There were rumours months ago that Doyle was involved. His business partner is Michael Owens. Could he be involved? But Owens is also related to Kano - so possible conflict there?

[Weststandwanab]

They are ex partners I think. If you want to ask Mike Friday night he will be in the Ellwyn hotel.

[Fat Penlon]

In the evening news article today Low stated that although money would be there for the football side of the business he couldn't say how much could be made available until he had access to the books. Surely a quick search on here or companies house would give him access to last years accounts which won't be that different from this years or am I missing something?

[KWJ]

Yet to be convinced that we have the right people to be selling the club to and I feel Hibernian is safer in STF's hands.

[CropleyWasGod]

In the evening news article today Low stated that although money would be there for the football side of the business he couldn't say how much could be made available until he had access to the books. Surely a quick search on here or companies house would give him access to last years accounts which won't be that different from this years or am I missing something?

The accounts for this year will be very different to last year's I'm sure.

The accounts, though, don't tell the whole story. They're only a summary.

[silverhibee]

There was Sean as well. Peter Lawwell on the list too. Just trying to do some detective work. Did hear the Doyle rumour a while ago... So could this be a goer? What is the connection between the two?

Okay apart from the Doyles who else is there that are from Edinburgh, think you are getting carried away here, Lawell will know Low through celtc, maybe Doyle is doing a good deed for charity and that is it.

The only money person that i know of on that list is Frank Lynch who Low has already said he is part of the group trying to takeover Hibs.

[Glorious St Pat]

Yet to be convinced that we have the right people to be selling the club to and I feel Hibernian is safer in STF's hands.

And where has that got us? Surely his appointment of Petrie and juggling too many balls has led us down this path? Surely another route is required?

[bighairyfaeleith]

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/scot-frank-lynch-reveals-hes-2094883

[bighairyfaeleith]

Same lynch?

[down-the-slope]

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p310/Islandkat2/SillyStuff/Chiquita-DM2-gallery-minions-bad-at-math.jpg

[silverhibee]

Same lynch?

Yeah.

[NW]

Low - "“I am not going to give the names of these people just now unless our offer is accepted and it looks as if it’s going to proceed. At that point everybody that’s involved in the consortium will have their details released. There will be absolute transparency, everything will become crystal clear.”

I really think it is time for a statement from Hibs to clear up this bollocks.


We as fans have little say, but I'd be keen to see the business model, and the people behind this so called bid - I doubt it exists, but hey good PR for Low.

Agreed - why doesn't Low invest in Celtic? Given all the loan deals they
Must be short so you have to ask where has all the
Money gone

[Ozyhibby]

Yet to be convinced that we have the right people to be selling the club to and I feel Hibernian is safer in STF's hands.

Aye, it's going great right enough. Let's just keep muddling along in the 1st div.
Your correct in that both groups have done nowhere near enough to convince anyone that they are the correct people to takeover Hibs but carrying on with our absentee owner and Petrie is not an option in my opinion.

[blackpoolhibs]

And where has that got us? Surely his appointment of Petrie and juggling too many balls has led us down this path? Surely another route is required?

:agree: I'm amazed at just how much crap people will put up with, we are a pish football team playing in a pish league under the ownership of STF, who left the day to day running of the club to Rod Petrie.

Cue Leeds United, Portsmouth and Hearts. Some folk are frightened of their own shadow, and are petrified the day STF actually leaves or sells the club to someone else.

[Fat Penlon]

The accounts for this year will be very different to last year's I'm sure.

The accounts, though, don't tell the whole story. They're only a summary.

Cheers m8 thought it sounded to easy :-)

[sahib]

:agree: I'm amazed at just how much crap people will put up with, we are a pish football team playing in a pish league under the ownership of STF, who left the day to day running of the club to Rod Petrie.

Cue Leeds United, Portsmouth and Hearts. Some folk are frightened of their own shadow, and are petrified the day STF actually leaves or sells the club to someone else.

Overall STF and Petrie have been better for the club than most owners we had before. I don't like the sound of some of the names being mentioned as possible bidders.

[Mibbes Aye]

:agree: I'm amazed at just how much crap people will put up with, we are a pish football team playing in a pish league under the ownership of STF, who left the day to day running of the club to Rod Petrie.

Cue Leeds United, Portsmouth and Hearts. Some folk are frightened of their own shadow, and are petrified the day STF actually leaves or sells the club to someone else.

To be honest, for about the last two years it's only been you who keeps bringing up Leeds and Portsmouth :greengrin

[Glorious St Pat]

Overall STF and Petrie have been better for the club than most owners we had before. I don't like the sound of some of the names being mentioned as possible bidders.

And why is that? Because they have Celtic allegiances? McCann never really had any real allegiance to Celtic yet get delivered what he promised. I share Blackpool's comment - too many afraid and unwilling to share into any dialogue post Farmer. The Farmer era has in my opinion been a failure as to where we should be. If some fans are happy with that then I despair at their ambition levels.

[Glorious St Pat]

Agreed - why doesn't Low invest in Celtic? Given all the loan deals they
Must be short so you have to ask where has all the
Money gone

It's interesting to hear from other Hibbies about the Celtic connection. The guy is attracted to the club for its potential. He said its "green enough" for me. If his intentions are honourable give the guy a chance. To muddle along as we are is no option. The current non-executive chairman and owner are no real football persons so why put all faith in them. They have delivered off the park but not on where it counts.

[macd123]

Overall STF and Petrie have been better for the club than most owners we had before. I don't like the sound of some of the names being mentioned as possible bidders.

Stewart milne is suddenly a genius because aberdeen have had one very good season. Things in football can change very quickly.

[Glorious St Pat]

Stewart milne is suddenly a genius because aberdeen have had one very good season. Things in football can change very quickly.

Is this another STF apologist? Do you think things will come good? Are you happy with our overall record over the past 21 years?

[Mibbes Aye]

It's interesting to hear from other Hibbies about the Celtic connection. The guy is attracted to the club for its potential. He said its "green enough" for me. If his intentions are honourable give the guy a chance. To muddle along as we are is no option. The current non-executive chairman and owner are no real football persons so why put all faith in them. They have delivered off the park but not on where it counts.

Isn't that a bit of a strange statement? What's it meant to mean?

[Glorious St Pat]

Isn't that a bit of a strange statement? What's it meant to mean?

It might be construed as religious but seeing as Low is a charitable Catholic and Celtic supporter then maybe he appreciates our roots and obvious potential to challenge.

[Ozyhibby]

Isn't that a bit of a strange statement? What's it meant to mean?

Not really, I thought it was straight forward.

[Ozyhibby]

Overall STF and Petrie have been better for the club than most owners we had before. I don't like the sound of some of the names being mentioned as possible bidders.

Can't remember any previous owners getting us relegated twice?

[silverhibee]

Agreed - why doesn't Low invest in Celtic? Given all the loan deals they
Must be short so you have to ask where has all the
Money gone

Why would Low invest in celtc, they have plenty money with owners that are worth a fortune, watch them spend the money if the huns come up next season.

[Glorious St Pat]

To some Hibbies other than investors who are completely died in the wool Hibbies nothing will suffice. Low has already stated on record that he ha a great affection and admiration for the club. He sees the potential and recognises a more level playing field. He along with other minted people and Hibbies want to invest and takeover Hibs. At least listen to what he says before casting anti Celtic prejudice against him.

[schinkenotto]

I have no problem with a change of ownership.

I do have problems with the motivation and expectation of these potential owners.

If their motivation is to see a return on their investment they can 100% forget it.

They would need to be the luckiest folk in the word to unearth a never ending stream of sellable youngsters which is the only way any Scottish team will ever make sufficient monies to be considered a viable return on investment.

If their expectation is that they can return the club to competing regularly at the top of the league and the latter stages of cups, then that should be a given in the current climate.

What that wont do however is produce a return on their investments as even under such circumstances IMO our maximum regular attendance would peak at some way short of £15k, without achieving substantially increased commercial income that's barely enough to break even.

My worry over any potential owner is what happens when their vision isn't realised and the club struggles year on year to break even.

What happens if their personal wealth comes under pressure because of their support of the club or because of a downturn effecting their business.

You don't need to look to far to see the consequences.

Maybe be shouldn't worry about the next owner but the one after that and how choosy that next owner or their family might be to whom they sell to.

I want my great grand children to watch Hibs and their after them.

For that reason I have no great expectation of or desire for an owner throwing cash at the club and would prefer a community / fan ownership model to safeguard the clubs future.

Maybe if that came to pass, ordinary people would be prepared to support the club financially by making regular monthly charitable like donations or by a " Foundation of Hearts" type commitment.

The thought of becoming an investors plaything is far less appealing to me than the status quo

As soon as the word "investors" appears in relation to Hibs,I become very wary.Something clearly needs to be done,but none of the names quoted or rumoured to be involved fill me with any confidence.God knows what this potential for disruption is doing to the morale of Ms Dempster and the new football setup at this crucial stage of the season.

[s.a.m]

To some Hibbies other than investors who are completely died in the wool Hibbies nothing will suffice. Low has already stated on record that he ha a great affection and admiration for the club. He sees the potential and recognises a more level playing field. He along with other minted people and Hibbies want to invest and takeover Hibs. At least listen to what he says before casting anti Celtic prejudice against him.

I don't know that it's so much that we are looking for dyed in the wool Hibbies, as that we are looking for a benefactor(s). Given the recent history of 'investors' in football, we are mistrustful, and we (or I anyway), are looking for someone who isn't looking for a return, but who simply wants the club to be stable and eventually succeed. The chances of that being the ardent supporter of another club seem slim. I would feel the same if it was a Dundee fan - I would be wondering 'Why', and 'What are you hoping to get out of this?'.

{Possibly irrelevant aside, but it's late..] Fergus McCann took over a club with a much larger supporter base. Presumably he'd calculated that he was likely to make a return. I'd be (pleasantly) surprised if there was any return to be made from Hibs.

[Glorious St Pat]

As soon as the word "investors" appears in relation to Hibs,I become very wary.Something clearly needs to be done,but none of the names quoted or rumoured to be involved fill me with any confidence.God knows what this potential for disruption is doing to the morale of Ms Dempster and the new football setup at this crucial stage of the season.

What names fill you with no confidence?

[Glorious St Pat]

I don't know that it's so much that we are looking for dyed in the wool Hibbies, as that we are looking for a benefactor(s). Given the recent history of 'investors' in football, we are mistrustful, and we (or I anyway), are looking for someone who isn't looking for a return, but who simply wants the club to be stable and eventually succeed. The chances of that being the ardent supporter of another club seem slim. I would feel the same if it was a Dundee fan - I would be wondering 'Why', and 'What are you hoping to get out of this?'.

{Possibly irrelevant aside, but it's late..] Fergus McCann took over a club with a much larger supporter base. Presumably he'd calculated that he was likely to make a return. I'd be (pleasantly) surprised if there was any return to be made from Hibs.

Surely Low sees the infrastructure and potential as stable enough to succeed? For otherwise he wouldn't get involved? Just saying, listen to all offers and then make a judgement.

[macd123]

Here is the link to the podcast for anyone who hasnt heard the interview

http://www.tsfm.net/podcast-episode-5-takeover-plans-for-hibernian/comment-page-2/#comment-27031

[macd123]

Is this another STF apologist? Do you think things will come good? Are you happy with our overall record over the past 21 years?

I would certainly stick up for STF yes. I am keen to hear out the other groups but i do trust him.

[weecounty hibby]

It's interesting to hear from other Hibbies about the Celtic connection. The guy is attracted to the club for its potential. He said its "green enough" for me. If his intentions are honourable give the guy a chance. To muddle along as we are is no option. The current non-executive chairman and owner are no real football persons so why put all faith in them. They have delivered off the park but not on where it counts.
To be honest I hate anything that connects us in any way to Celtic. The only similarity between us and them is the colours we wear, in their case stolen from us. We were set up as a charitable organisation and continued to be so . They were set up as a charitable organisation for about a minute or two and then the whites and kellys of this world immediately saw a business idea. We openly supported Irish republicanism, to the point of almost being expelled from SFA , they never did. We had a policy of only playing Irish Catholics who regularly attended Mass, they never did. They have actually pretended to do all of those things as it has turned out to be profitable for them.
We have moved on to become a 21st century football club, very proud of our roots and our struggles back then. They are stuck in their 1970s fake Irishness that frankly is embarrassing. For someone to say "they're green enough for me"? What does he mean by that? We're almost Celtic but not quite? Celtic are my first choice but they already have guys richer than me? Not sure that statement gets me on board at all
We do need change, we do need to move forward, we do need investment but, in my opinion, it needs to be be because it is the right thing for the club, not to make profit as almost no one profits from football clubs. It has to be from the heart for clubs like ours. There is no profit to be made so if after a season or two these guys realise that, then what? Disappear taking their funding with them leaving us up **** creek? We need to be very careful and the fans have a big role to play in this

[RIP]

To some Hibbies other than investors who are completely died in the wool Hibbies nothing will suffice. Low has already stated on record that he ha a great affection and admiration for the club. He sees the potential and recognises a more level playing field. He along with other minted people and Hibbies want to invest and takeover Hibs. At least listen to what he says before casting anti Celtic prejudice against him.

Why don't you contact David and his backers and check if they need an official Hibs.Net champion?

You are doing a fabulous job on these threads

[RIP]

Here is the link to the podcast for anyone who hasnt heard the interview

http://www.tsfm.net/podcast-episode-5-takeover-plans-for-hibernian/comment-page-2/#comment-27031

Did you think there hadn't been enought posts quoting the link already? Or is it just part of the publicity?

[KeithTheHibby]

Can't remember any previous owners getting us relegated twice?

Or winning us 2 trophies? Got to balance it up if you want a reasoned debate...

[Jack]

To be honest I hate anything that connects us in any way to Celtic. The only similarity between us and them is the colours we wear, in their case stolen from us. We were set up as a charitable organisation and continued to be so . They were set up as a charitable organisation for about a minute or two and then the whites and kellys of this world immediately saw a business idea. We openly supported Irish republicanism, to the point of almost being expelled from SFA , they never did. We had a policy of only playing Irish Catholics who regularly attended Mass, they never did. They have actually pretended to do all of those things as it has turned out to be profitable for them.
We have moved on to become a 21st century football club, very proud of our roots and our struggles back then. They are stuck in their 1970s fake Irishness that frankly is embarrassing. For someone to say "they're green enough for me"? What does he mean by that? We're almost Celtic but not quite? Celtic are my first choice but they already have guys richer than me? Not sure that statement gets me on board at all
We do need change, we do need to move forward, we do need investment but, in my opinion, it needs to be be because it is the right thing for the club, not to make profit as almost no one profits from football clubs. It has to be from the heart for clubs like ours. There is no profit to be made so if after a season or two these guys realise that, then what? Disappear taking their funding with them leaving us up **** creek? We need to be very careful and the fans have a big role to play in this

Me too.

If there's such good Hibbies in the background then the sensible thing, in my opinion, would have been for them to front the bid with him in the background.