Harrogate Town manager Simon Weaver and local businessman Jonathan Blezard have become co-owners of the club.
The announcement brings Irving Weaver’s tenure as owner to a close, following more than two years of consideration about the club’s long-term future.
Simon will continue as men’s first team manager alongside his new ownership role, while Jonathan, founder of Angstrom Sports, intends to play an active part in the club’s development.
Both have committed significant financial support, with the club confirming the ownership structure meets the relevant regulatory requirements.
Irving Weaver said:
“Over the last two years, I have spent a great deal of time considering what the right long-term ownership of Harrogate Town should look like.
“We have explored a number of avenues and spoken with many people who expressed an interest in becoming involved with the Club.
"But this was never about finding somebody prepared to buy or invest in Harrogate Town; it was about finding the right people with the right intentions, who could also demonstrate the necessary commitment and suitability.”
He added:
“This should not be viewed as family succession. Both Simon and Jonathan are making a significant commitment to this football club and, crucially, they are doing so together.
“Their experiences and strengths complement each other extremely well. They share a genuine ambition for Harrogate Town while understanding the responsibility that comes with owning a football club.”
Simon, who has spent 17 years with Town, said becoming a co-owner would not change his responsibilities as manager.
Simon Weaver said:
“My position and my role as manager will not change, and my ambition remains exactly the same – to become the best football manager I can possibly be and to keep pushing this team forward.
“I fully accept that, as manager, I will continue to be judged on results in exactly the same way as any other manager in football. Becoming a co-owner does not change that responsibility or the standards I expect of myself.”
He also paid tribute to his father’s contribution to the club.
Simon said:
“As Chairman, my dad has played an enormous part in the progress of Harrogate Town AFC, and I can’t thank him enough for the trust he has placed in me.
“He has been an incredible leader throughout his life in business, bringing those same values into football – honesty, hard work, integrity and determination. Those qualities have been central to the Club’s progress, and I think the journey during his time as Chairman speaks for itself.”
The new owners have built a close working relationship over the past 14 months, with plans to support the men’s and women’s sections, player pathway and wider club.
The partnership will also maintain Town’s relationship with Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation.
Jonathan Blezard said:
“The strong foundations established under Irving’s stewardship, alongside Simon’s commitment and leadership over many years, have given me the confidence to invest in Harrogate Town.
“Simon and I understand the responsibility we’re taking on, and I’m delighted we’re doing it together.
“I recognise what this Club means to its loyal supporters and the wider local community, and I can see its potential for the future.”
He added:
“I intend to be an active owner, contributing to the Club’s growth and helping us make the best possible decisions both on and off the pitch.
“We expect to attract further investment and expertise over time, but above all, we want to build on what makes Harrogate Town special. Together, we intend to make Harrogate Town something that the whole town can feel part of and be proud of.”
Further details of the club’s future plans will be announced in due course.
Town has also urged supporters to get behind its men’s first team at Marcy Fitness Stadium as it aims to return to the EFL.
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