Town's AGM passed off with out much controversy last night, but still had one or two points of interest. The club confirmed that Churchman's would be developed at the beginning of next season with 4-5000 extra seats being added to the ground's capacity. David Sheepshanks said that Churchman's was being developed rather than the North Stand, as had been the original intention, because work could be carried out on Churchman's without reducing the capacity, whereas the North Stand would have to be closed. The stand would not be known as Churchman's and may involve sponsorship. The development of Churchman's has also slowed down the Millennium Walkway development.

Town's new Chief Executive, Howard Wells, came under fire from a number of shareholders who felt his appointment was unneccessary. Both David Sheepshanks and John Kerr defended the appointment, Kerr saying he wished he had had a CE when he was Chairman. Sheepshanks said he felt he had gone as far as he could with the club.

The club reiterated that they were looking at a share issue as soon as they are promoted to the Premiership. Sheepshanks also said that the large number of shares have been passed down over the years from past chairmen would be held in a trust to benefit the club rather than Sheepshanks himself.

Sheepshanks also added that they are looking into the possibility of a media company taking a minor stake in the club as has happened at Leeds, Manchester City and others.

The Chairman added that he hoped that the renegotiation of TV rights would bring Town a substantial sum of cash every year and also mentioned that Internet rights could bring in cash over the next few years. He also said that Town are in the top six for wages in the Division and are 5th for attendences.

Gary Croft is in court this morning.

George Burley is reported as hoping that Richard Wright will be back from Luxembourg for the game tonight.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls