Craig Hemmings Addresses Concerns of Preston North End Fans: An Open Letter Response
Preston North End’s chairman, Craig Hemmings, has recently responded to an open letter addressed to him by supporters’ groups, signaling a potential shift in the club’s engagement with its loyal fanbase. The letter, titled ‘Time for Action,’ was penned by PNE Online and the Preston Supporters Collective Steering Group, expressing their growing frustration with the current state of affairs at Deepdale.
Fans Demand Clarity and Change
The supporters’ groups highlighted the need for greater transparency and clarity from the club regarding its direction, especially as Preston North End currently finds itself in a challenging position in the Championship standings. Sitting at 19th place after 17 games, with a mere two-point buffer above the relegation zone and a recent string of winless matches, fans are understandably anxious about the team’s performance and reputation.
Moreover, concerns have been raised about the club being labeled as ‘the most boring club in the EFL,’ adding another layer of discontent among the fanbase. Despite these pressing issues, Mr. Hemmings chose not to directly address the specific grievances outlined in the open letter but has expressed willingness to engage with the concerned supporters in a face-to-face meeting.
A Gesture of Goodwill
In a public statement shared on social media, Mr. Hemmings acknowledged the existence of the open letter and the valid concerns raised by the fans. He revealed that the club already holds quarterly meetings with the Preston Supporters Collective, where various club-related topics are discussed openly with senior club officials in attendance. Additionally, a new Fan Advisory Network (FAN) has been established this season to further enhance fan engagement and feedback mechanisms.
Mr. Hemmings, a devoted supporter of Preston North End since the 1970s, extended an olive branch to the authors of the open letter, inviting them to a personal meeting to explore collaborative ways to strengthen the relationship between the club and its fans. The supporters groups welcomed this proactive response from Mr. Hemmings, emphasizing the importance of tangible, positive changes in the club’s operations moving forward.
Call for Action and Change
As fans eagerly await the outcome of the upcoming meeting between Mr. Hemmings and the supporters groups, there is a collective call for the club to not only communicate clearly with the entire fanbase but also deliver on promises of meaningful transformation within the organization. Words alone are deemed insufficient; concrete actions and improvements are what the fans are yearning to witness to rekindle their faith and passion for Preston North End.
In the spirit of unity and progress, the ongoing dialogue between the club’s leadership and its devoted supporters signifies a promising step towards a brighter future for Preston North End both on and off the pitch. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story as the club navigates through this crucial juncture in its history.