Club News: Why people chose to own Dunstable Town FC
- James Smith
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
Photo: A recent club owners meeting.
Article by Nadia Laing.
More Than a Match: Why We Chose to Own Dunstable Town FC
In the world of modern football, ownership is often associated with billionaires and distant boardrooms. But at Dunstable Town FC (DTFC), the "owners" are the people you see in the stands, the volunteers serving tea, and the neighbours you pass on the street.
As a Community Benefit Society, DTFC belongs to its fans. We asked some of our co-owners why they decided to invest not just their money, but their hearts into the club.
A Lifeline in the Community
For many, the journey to ownership didn't start at the turnstile, but through the club's community health initiatives.
Bobbie F and Bob K discovered the club via a GP referral after the isolation of the pandemic had taken its toll.
"The first time I tried walking football, I finished the session feeling so good mentally and physically. It made me realize the hidden harm Covid had caused us; we were a shadow of our former selves," says Bobbie.
What started as exercise turned into a lifestyle. After learning about programs like Chums & Crumbs and Sphere, the couple felt a calling to give back.
For Bob’s 70th birthday, his son bought him his ownership, a gift that has led to Bob managing the Creasey Community Chest and Bobbie serving as a Welfare Officer.
Protecting the Future for the Next Generation
For Sam H, ownership was a family decision rooted in a love for the game and a desire to see it survive. After his daughter signed for AFC Dunstable and her son for Dunstable Town, the family became regulars at Creasey Park.
"I understand that it takes hard work and funds to keep a club running," Sam explains. "We quickly became owners and sponsored players to do our bit, so when my children reach adulthood, there will still be a club for them to play for."
A Model That Works
For those who have grown tired of the professional game, DTFC offers a refreshing alternative. Luke M, a lifelong season ticket holder at a pro club, found himself disillusioned until he discovered the non-league scene and the fan-owned model.
"The fan-owned model brings together like-minded people who want the best for the club and the wider community," Luke says. "It allows fans to shape the direction and drive projects that have a huge impact. A fan-owned club is simply better at driving change."
The Power of a Friendly Face
Whether it's Nick G and Louise, who were drawn in by the warm welcome from Andrew and the team, or John G, who witnessed first-hand the weekly difference the club's groups make, the sentiment remains the same: DTFC is a family.
As Bobbie F beautifully puts it: "A smile, a friendly hello, and a helping hand can make everyone’s life a bit better. That’s why I’m so happy to be a community owner."
Join Us
Being a co-owner of Dunstable Town FC means more than having a vote; it means ensuring that our club remains a beacon of support, friendship, and sport for everyone in Dunstable.
Would you like to become a part of our story? Ask us today about how you can become a co-owner.
Read more here about ownership:
Read about our community groups here:
