CEO addresses funding concerns for Doncaster Rovers after Watson family departure

Andrew Watson and Sarah Flower - the children of the late Dick Watson - gave up their combined 25 per cent stake in July and resigned from official positions at the club.

Since the Watsons bought into the club in 2006, they have provided an equal level of funding to Terry Bramall and, previously, John Ryan.

But CEO Baldwin says there will be no shortfall in backing from the ownership thanks to increased contributions from Bramall and chairman David Blunt.

“Terry and David straight away both assured me there would be no concerns whatsoever,” Baldwin told the Free Press.

“David has funded the club in the past and definitely on a more regular basis recently.

“Both of them are trying to drive a sustainable football model. Until we achieve that sustainability and definitely during Covid-19 and the outcomes of it, they are absolutely clear they are here to ensure the future stability of the club.

“It has not had a financial impact on the club.”

The creation of the Club Doncaster model was designed to move Rovers towards self-sustainability.

The owners continued to make considerable contributions to the club each year to ensure Rovers remain competitive but Baldwin says the club is progressing well in striving for a sustainable operation.

The chief executive also added that the previous roles of the Watson family within the club will be absorbed by Bramall and Blunt.

“The day to day running of the club, David and Terry have more than picked up,” he said.

“As regards to any difference it will make to the club, they have picked up any of the roles that Andy would have performed.

“Andy is a massive fan of Doncaster Rovers and will continue to be. He’s still rung me virtually every week to talk about the club.

“As regards the running of the club, David and Terry have more than filled the gap.

“David has always been my main point of contact anyway as the chairman.

“Everyone enjoyed Andy and Sarah’s company. Andy attended the various board meetings and was on the end of the phone on a daily basis, for advice, guidance etc.

“Both will continue coming to the club in the directors’ suite in ambassadorial roles.

“They will remain as friends of the club. We still get on really well with them.”

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