Durham Women: WSL 2 Club's Future Secured by Local Investor

Durham Women's future has been secured by South Shields co-owner Geoff Thompson, who has reached an agreement to acquire a majority shareholding in the Women's Super League 2 club. Thompson's investment, along with financial backing from South Shields co-investor Jason Ye, ensures that Durham will continue competing in the Women's Super League 2 next season.

The club had issued an urgent appeal for a takeover on June 8 after earlier potential investors fell through, putting their professional status at risk. A statement from Durham revealed they had only 21 days to secure a buyer, warning players and staff that operations would have to cease at all levels without a solution. Although the specific amount of the investment has not been disclosed, the news is a vital boost for Durham.

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Thompson has been instrumental in the development of South Shields FC, previously serving as chairman and leading the club to three consecutive promotions before becoming a co-investor in 2017. He stated, "With a decision required within a matter of days, the overriding priority was to safeguard Durham Women and protect its long-term future. We firmly believe the club plays a crucial role within the local community and deserves every opportunity to grow, progress, and succeed. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Mr. Jason Ye, my newest partner at South Shields FC, for the trust and confidence he has placed in me, in this club, and in the north east region as a whole. Together, we share a strong belief in the future of women's football. We are confident that Durham Women is well positioned to be part of this exciting journey."

As part of the new ownership structure, Durham's founders, Lee Sanders and Dawn Hepple, will retain their shareholder status. Established in 2007 as an under-10 girls football team, Durham became part of the WSL structure in 2014. They have been competing in WSL 2 as an independent women's team for 12 years, without a connection to a men's club. Last season, Durham finished 10th in the second tier and have reached the Women's FA Cup quarter-finals twice in their history.