Be careful

8:38am Wednesday 12th November 2008

WEYMOUTH chairman Malcolm Curtis has warned Terras’ fans to be “careful what they wish for” as he continues to find a new owner for the club.

The property developer, who believes his position at the club has become untenable, has revealed that two parties are interested in the Blue Square Premier outfit.

Curtis said: “There are two very strong parties but my preferred route would’ve been to work with the Terras Trust or the local community. Instead I’m left to deal with two strong parties.

“But there are some great people who do want to get involved with the club and I hope we can find a solution.

“The biggest problem with the club is me, and I know that, because of all the lies that have been said about me. I know I have to be removed but people should be careful what they wish for.

“Once you get to a point when so many people are against you then you have got to go, it’s the same with a politician.

“It’s disappointing that people are quick to be critical but won’t step up. Where are they and where is the creative criticism coming from?

“The only thing that is getting ruined is the reputation of the football club. It’s their club and all they’re doing is attacking it. They talk the talk but won’t walk the walk. This isn’t the first time people have had a pop at me, it doesn’t hurt me it only hurts the club.

“I also care about the way it upsets my family, friends and what I’m working towards.”

A brand new community stadium is what Curtis is working towards, and he remains intent on providing that asset despite the frosty relations that have developed between him and sections of the Wessex Stadium faithful.

He added: “The new stadium is what I came here to deliver and that’s always been my long term aim. Sometimes though you wonder what’s the point after being accused of the things I have.

“Weymouth FC still owns the estate it’s on, I own the area around it. What I’m saying is that I will deliver a new fantastic home for the club and they can have it for free, something that is worth 25 times more than its current home, yet I’m made out to be the devil.

“I could have done all the terrible things I’m being accused of but instead I’ve acted in the best interests of the club.

“You don’t question what a heart surgeon is doing just as he’s holding the knife ready to cut into someone. I know what I’m doing.”

Meanwhile, former majority shareholder Mel Bush, who handed the club over to Curtis 13 months ago, is disappointed to see the Terras in their current state.

He said: “I don’t have access to all the relevant information so it’s difficult to give an opinion. However, one thing I have noticed is that Mr Curtis said the club is in a better position than when myself or Martyn Harrison handed over, which is rubbish.

“When I handed the club over there were no debts and I put in £100,000 so it’s difficult to see how they are in a better position.

“Martyn Harrison paid around £3million when he left. He’s been an absolute gentleman and I’d like to think I acted in the same way.

“I could have sold the ground around the stadium and taken the money but I didn’t and neither did Martyn – we acted in the best interests of the club.

“That’s why I was specific when I sold the club that the asset should always stay with the club. I care about the club and I wanted it to move forward but events appear to show that has not been fulfilled.”

n Weymouth’s Anton Robinson is part of England C team’s 16-man squad that takes on Italy in Bene-vento today. The Three Lions need a point to qualify from Group A in the International Challenge Trophy.