Fan ownership on parade as Angels hit the streets

Tonbridge Angels supporters have been flying the flag for fan ownership at their town's famous annual carnival.

More than 100 fans have become shareholders since the Ryman Premier club embraced fan ownership at the end of last season and on Sunday many of them took to the streets on the Angels carnival float, pictured, when it left the Longmead Stadium to show off the benefits they've been enjoying.

Thousands of residents turned out to watch the colourful and at times noisy procession with the Southern England Marching Band Competition taking place as the bands led the way under blue skies.

Tonbridge Angels chairman Steve Churcher was delighted they'd taken the chance to publicise the new way the club was being run with shareholders paying a £25 annual fee to enjoy voting rights on major decisions, a host of exclusive privileges and discounts and even put themselves forward to sit on their board.

Churcher said: "Our decision to take part in this years event was a tremendous way in getting out to the Tonbridge community and a very visual way of showing that this can quite literally be their football club."

In team news, former Ebbsfleet and Margate central midfielder Tom Phipp, 22, has arrived at Longmead after agreeing terms to turn out for the Angels in the Ryman's top flight next season.

Manager Steve McKimm said: "I'm delighted Tom has agreed to play for us. He brings experience, increases our options at the very heart of the team and shows the intent of the club to progress in the right direction."

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