Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Premier Division club Hyde United have officially joined the growing number of football clubs owned by their supporters.

Apart from notable big name clubs such as Athletic Bilbao and Portsmouth, many smaller local clubs such as Chester City, Wrexham and Macclesfield Town have all turned to the fan owner option.

In a joint statement, the club’s previous owner John Manship and Hyde United Supporters Club confirmed that the proposed sale announced several weeks ago had gone very well and the purchase of the Club’s ‘A’ shares was now complete.

According to the club’s chairman Joe Kitchen, it was a very straight forward process with both parties doing all they could to make for a speedy transition. “I would like to thank John for the very preferential terms he offered the Supporters to purchase the Club. I know he could have got a lot more if he had taken other offers,” said the Hyde chairman.

“I always had great respect for the fans at Hyde,” said Manship, “They gave so much and always out sang other fans even though greatly outnumbered. I feel very happy I could help them own their club. I am sure they will do well.

“A Supporters Trust is now being established,” added Joe Kitchen. “It is a great time to be a fan at Ewen Fields. We have got our ‘United’ name back and all the fans are doing amazing things to raise money to ensure the Club has a secure future.”