TORQUAY UNITED SUPPORTERS’ TRUST
BI-MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Apr 2026

 

ABOUT THE TRUST

The Torquay United Supporters’ Trust is a community-led organisation dedicated to protecting the future, heritage and identity of Torquay United Football Club.

Run by supporters, for supporters, the Trust exists to give fans a collective voice, strengthen the bond between club and community, and promote long-term sustainability both on and off the pitch.

Through engagement, advocacy and practical support, the Trust works to ensure that Torquay United remains at the heart of Torbay for generations to come.

​

CONTENTS

• Chairman’s Introduction

• Report from the Trust Board

• Forever Yellow Launched

• Your TUST in 25/26

• Pounds for Pledges Update

• Matchday Ambassadors

• Working Together

• Corporate Members

​

CHAIRMAN’S INTRODUCTION

Nick Brodrick – Chairman

​

Dear Member,

These are exciting times to be a Torquay United supporter both on and off the pitch. Of course, rightly, all thoughts are on Saturday’s Play-Off Semi-Final with what could be close to 5,000 at Plainmoor as we face Marc White’s Dorking Wanderers.

No predictions but we all know what’s at stake.

​

But this second edition of our new look newsletter is more than just about what’s happening on the pitch as important as this is, for you can learn about our Forever Yellow Membership Scheme which has already had a fantastic, positive response; our, what started as a low-key, March Pledges idea, but grew in numbers and raised a great amount of money, through to the success of our Matchday Ambassadors along with the important role played by Paul Bastard as the club’s Supporter Liaison Officer.

​​

Since our last newsletter we have welcomed Jimmy Ball as the new first team manager who has already made an impressive start. He has showed he is not just focused on the men’s squad, for he has been involved in the youth set-up taking a training session while attending women’s matches as they chase the title in their own league. At Plainmoor last Sunday he was there on the sidelines issuing advice/instructions as our women won taking them to three points away from promotion.

​​

Being involved in running a professional football club is not only about results but a myriad of every day issues which need answers and decisions and TUST’s stake holding requires much time, thought and commitment for myself and Danni.

Recently, we participated in the Fans’ Forum during which there were a number of interesting and probing questions which were given full, honest answers.

The evening underlined, if it needed to, the vital role played by the Bryn Consortium, currently six but soon to be seven who without whom there would be no club.

As we know we are all fans doing our best to run our football club and all of us on the TUST board are aware of our position and responsibilities. We are, though, truly grateful and fully appreciative of your support as members.

 

I would like to take this opportunity to highlight our amazing volunteers all of whom were acknowledged on the pitch at half-time two weeks ago.​

TUST’s Paint Up Plainmoor squad, under David McNair, do a terrific job re-painting key admin areas/parts of the stadium and in recent weeks we have recruited a number of new additions. If you would like to be involved you can contact me at: fanszone.tu@gmail.com.

​

 

The numbers upgrading their Forever Yellow membership tiers has been humbling already and it’s looking as if this is becoming the norm. The challenge is to raise £100,000 every year.

If you can introduce a friend to become a TUST member not only would that be great but also it would strengthen our vital involvement in helping to run our wonderful football club.

​

We all thank you for your faith in us and for your support.

​

REPORT FROM THE TRUST BOARD

Rick Williams – Secretary

​

It has been a busy couple of months for the Trust Board behind the scenes as we have been migrating over to our new membership management system; Beacon CRM.

This involved a vast amount of man-hours helping to support the import of members’ data, previously held in a singular spreadsheet into Beacon CRM.

​

For the board this move to Beacon CRM provides better visibility of our membership, more efficient administration, and enhanced tools to support decision-making and future growth. Ultimately, it will allow us to operate more effectively and deliver a more streamlined experience for all Trust members. This upgrade has been a long time coming & we extend our thanks to Ali Bryant; Membership Secretary & Treasurer, for the unbelievable work she has done managing our membership records thus far.

​

 

Apart from the major task of preparing and launching the Forever Yellow membership scheme, other issues discussed at the TUST board since the last newsletter have included the appointment of the new manager (TUST’s representatives on the Club board were directly involved in the process), raising over £1700 during March through the Pledges initiative and support for the ‘Prost8’ charity resulting in sponsored signboards at the stadium.

​

 

In April we were joined by Michael Westcott and Tim Herbert for discussions about the financial structure of the club and TUST’s funding position including the importance of future contributions via the Forever Yellow scheme.

​

 

TUST Proud to Launch FOREVER YELLOW

Joe Uglow – Board Member

​

When we talk about being a supporter-owned club, we want it to mean more than just words. We want it to show up in decisions, in priorities, and in the way we build for the future. That’s exactly what Forever Yellow represents.

​​

Not long ago, we asked you – the fans – via our membership consultation survey what you wanted to see from your Supporters Trust and your football club. The response was clear. You wanted a way to contribute regularly, transparently, and meaningfully to the long-term sustainability of Torquay United. You wanted to feel part of something bigger than matchdays. You wanted to help secure the future of the club we all care so deeply about.

​

Forever Yellow is the direct result of that feedback.

 

Forever Yellow is a structured, ongoing way for supporters to invest in the club’s future. Members can sign up at a level that suits them, with four different tiers available, each offering its own set of benefits and recognition. Whether you choose to contribute a little or a lot, every tier plays an important role—and the benefits increase depending on your level of support. You can find full details of each tier and what’s included here at www.tust.co.uk/join

​​

But like anything built on collective effort, its success depends on participation.

​​

We don’t want this to be a small group carrying the load. It’s about all of us, doing what we can. If you were one of the many supporters who said they wanted a way to contribute more consistently, this is that opportunity. And if you’re on the fence, it’s worth remembering—this initiative exists because fans like you asked for it.

​​

We also want to give you a say on how your hard earned money is spent. When signing up to Forever Yellow you will be given the option to distribute your money across three options; First Team Operations, Youth Development or Stadium Experience. You can distribute across all three, two of the three or just one of the options, depending on how strongly you feel about whichever option. We hope that by giving you this choice it reinforces that we’re not just spectators, but stakeholders.

​​

We’ve already seen what can be achieved when the fanbase pulls together. Now is the time to build on that momentum.

If you haven’t upgraded your membership tier yet, please take a moment to consider it. If you have, thank you—your support genuinely makes a difference. And if you know someone who cares about this club as much as you do, encourage them to get involved too.

​​

Forever Yellow was shaped by supporter voices. Now it needs supporter backing.

​​

Together, we can make sure it lives up to its name.

​

A Season of Progress - Your TUST in 25/26

TUST Board

​

The 2025/26 season has been an important one for Torquay United Supporters Trust. Not just in terms of activity, but in what that activity represents—progress, influence, and a growing ability for supporters to shape the future of their football club.

 

Having secured a 28% shareholding in TUFC, protection of the club's heritage rights and two seats on the board at the end of 2024, over the past year, TUST has continued to build on its role at the heart of the club, ensuring that the supporter voice is not only heard, but acted upon. From the boardroom to the terraces, the Trust has played a key role in strengthening both the club itself and the experience of being a Torquay United fan.

​​

One of the most visible impacts has been direct support to football operations. Trust funding has helped bring in players to strengthen the squad during the season, while also supporting the development of younger talent and investing in improvements such as pitch equipment. These are tangible contributions that make a real difference where it matters most—on the pitch.

​

 

Off the pitch, there has been a clear focus on improving the matchday experience. The reintroduction of fan zones at the beginning of the season, the presence of matchday ambassadors, and the continued development of the supporter liaison role have all helped create a more welcoming, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for fans. Alongside this, practical improvements around the ground have ensured that the stadium continues to evolve in line with supporter expectations.

​

 

Equally important has been the Trust’s commitment to listening. Through supporter surveys, forums, and ongoing engagement, fans have been given meaningful opportunities to shape decisions. This has already led to visible outcomes—from initiatives like Forever Yellow to greater involvement in areas such as club identity and communication. The message is simple: when supporters speak, the Trust is ready to act.

​

 

TUST has also continued to support the wider Torquay United community. This includes strengthening its partnership with the Community Sports Trust, championing the women’s team, promoting important health and wellbeing initiatives, and working with local partners to ensure the club remains a positive force off the pitch as well as on it.

​

 

None of this happens in isolation. Every step forward this season has been made possible by the commitment of members, volunteers, and supporters who continue to give their time, energy, and backing.

​

As the season closes, the progress made is clear—but so too is the opportunity ahead. With stronger foundations in place and growing supporter engagement, there is real momentum behind both the Trust and the club.

​

 

The challenge now is to build on it & we hope with the launch of our new membership scheme, our fantastic membership base will rise to the challenge.

​

Pounds for Pledges

Clive Hayward - Board Member

 

I'm really excited about getting our Pledges scheme off the ground. I put it forward, but it is by no means an original idea. I remember that in match programmes 40 years ago, individual supporters could promise modest amounts for club funds every season by pledging money for “things that could happen.”

​

 

My mate’s fondly remembered Mum, Margaret Faulkner, would regularly sponsor strikers for goals scored. Most of them were playing in the Fourth Division for a reason, and she rarely finished up with a massive bill- but every little helps!

​

In March, we had another go. It was quite a small-scale operation. I actually only originally intended it as an idea for TUST Board Members to contribute. Everyone joined in, and we soon decided to open it up to any fans to get involved.

​

 

How did it Work?

For the month of March, we asked fans to pledge cash for goals, points, wins and clean sheets.

​

 

How did it go?

It wasn’t a vintage time. The team was still reeling from February’s traumas. There were massive injuries, and Neil Warnock and Ronnie Jepson were struggling to fill our bench. The team’s results were mediocre. Despite that, our 38 pledgers raised a fantastic total in excess of £1700. The final match against Horsham was a bit of a bumper haul: the 2-0 win gathering cash from all four categories.

​

 

Where will March’s money go?

The Board has decided to put the money towards another ground improvement: the staircase up through the Family Stand to The Gulls Nest needs some railings, and we are obtaining quotes.

​

 

Next Season:

If we can raise £1700 in one month, imagine what we can do in nine! We are planning to run Pledges throughout 2026/27.

We would welcome your thoughts for categories. In addition to:

• Goals,

• Wins,

• Points, &

• “Cleanos”,

​

Maybe we could do what Margaret loved doing and sponsor individual players for their appearances and appearances and goals? Would there be interest in pledges on Women’s games?

Let us know what you think and watch this space!

​

 

COYY, Clive

 

Matchday Ambassadors

Paul Bastard - Supporter Liaison Officer​

​

Just over a year ago Torquay United issued a press release advertising for Matchday Ambassadors under the simple straplines, "Do you love Torquay United?" and "Would you like to make a difference at Plainmoor?".

​

 

This would be the renaissance and reimagining of a scheme originally proposed and operated a few years ago by the current chairman of TUST, Nick Brodrick.

​

The aim was to recruit at least a dozen "MAmbs" who would meet and greet both home and away fans at Plainmoor in order to enhance the matchday experience for regulars, explain and introduce things pro-actively to newcomers and assist those needing extra support, especially in the disabled sections of the ground, all the while having the confidence to solve any issues that might arise and, generally, being an approachable, friendly face to make Plainmoor - "the biggest show in town" (our GM, Tim Herbert) - the most welcoming of places to be on a matchday.

 

So how has the season gone? A total of twelve volunteers have served as MAmbs during the season, with an average of eight being available per game. About two hours before kick-off, a pre-match briefing (and complimentary pasty!) gets the ball rolling where issues of logistics, safety, catering, car parking, hospitality, potential crowd concerns and pre- and post-match events are discussed. On occasions MAmbs also attend the pre-match stewards' briefing, the better to integrate the thinking, and bolster the relationship with, matchday security.

 

We also deploy a dedicated team to look after the disabled sections in the ground, dispensing blankets, hot-water bottles and, occasionally, biscuits to keep these supporters and their carers in as much comfort as possible.

 

Post-match, and in the days following, will see a de-brief to the Supporter Liaison Officer which has led to initiatives such as the lettering of all rows in the seated stands, an improvement in the logistics of the disabled lavatories, ideas about the bar areas, food outlets, big screen and matchday programme and many observations passed on about the matchday experience from our supporters.

MAmbs are, also, increasingly taking a part in Plainmoor matchdays of TUFC Women where a willingness to be flexible, to help out with stewarding and to direct young families new to Plainmoor is extending the role further.

 

Matchday Ambassadors are volunteers. They buy their own match and season tickets. They think not what the club can do for them but what they can do for the club. They do a lot but it is not just what they do but who they are and how they represent the club in order to show off Torquay United as a place to go for all the community, whatever their age or circumstance, that defines the role. In a couple of weeks' time we shall celebrate our first year together with a lunch out in town en groupe at which we shall take stock and discuss how we can build on our experiences this year.

 

Anyone reading this who feels inspired to join this happy, loyal band of volunteers, please tell us a little about themselves and send their details to: SLO@torquayunited.com by Friday, 17th July, 2026 in time for the new season.

​

WORKING TOGETHER

Want to work with the Club or Trust? See the below details for how you can!

​

Want to become a Matchday Ambassador & help to make Plainmoor a welcoming place to attend? Please tell us a little about yourselves and send your details to Paul Bastard at: SLO@torquayunited.com by Friday, 17th July, 2026 in time for the new season.

​

 

The 1899 Club Lottery continues to go from strength to strength with over 600 players currently playing each month. With the first three prizes being cash amounts there are opportunities for companies to provide a 4th prize in return for sponsorship space on the lottery. If any Trust members work for, or own a company that would like to partner with the 1899 Club Lottery then please get in touch with us at info@tust.co.uk

​

 

​

 

CORPORATE MEMBERS

 

Please support the businesses that support your Supporters’ Trust:

​

• RGS Architectural Design Consultants

• Torquay Carpets and Furniture

• O’Neill & Holman Painting and Decorating

• Riviera Events

• The Blue Anchor, Teignmouth

• Devon School of Hypnotherapy

• Regola Digital Consulting

• Weltch Media

• Torbay Footcare

• Southall Electrical

• Talking Torquay Podcast

• Torbay Oven Cleaning

• Twigger Business Solutions

• Prestige Tactical

• Charlie Baker (Comedian and Supporter)

​

COME ON YOU YELLOWS

For enquiries, please email:
info@tust.co.uk