GEOFF Moss now has the controlling interest in Wrexham Football Club after buying out co-owner Neville Dickens’ 50% share.

A statement released by the club is below:

“Wrexham football club can confirm that director Geoff Moss has acquired the 50% shareholding of Neville Dickens, giving him the controlling interest in the club.

“This will facilitate negotiations to take place with a group of North Wales businessmen about long-term investment in the club.

“It is envisaged that the club will form its own property development company, and subject to planning permission, undertake a building scheme to develop the land around the stadium, including Mr Dickens’ former garage. As part of the scheme a new stand will also be built at the ‘Kop end’ of the ground.

“This development will provide the necessary funds to repay the club’s debt, and establish a long-term income stream for the club.

“The club is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Retout, a chartered accountant from Ruthin and Wrexham supporter, to the board of the football club. Paul Atkinson, a former director at Elegant Resorts, will also join the board. Further enhancements to the board will be made in due course.

“Nev Dickens will become senior vice-president and will remain very much involved in the club.

“Mr Moss would like to publicly express his gratitude to Nev Dickens, as nobody knows better than Geoff how much work and effort Nev has put into helping save Wrexham Football Club, and they are looking forward to continuing to work together in the future.

“It remains Nev’s ambition (and, indeed, that of Geoff), to ensure that Wrexham Football Club is put on a ‘sound financial footing’ going forward.

“What is happening now will provide that opportunity.

“Further announcements will be made in the coming days.”

The news comes after the North East Wales Institute (NEWI) pulled out of a joint proposal to build student accommodation on a large section of the Racecourse Ground car park.

Moss, who joined forces with fellow businessman Dickens in 2006 to bring the Dragons out of administration, has confirmed he has alternative plans in place expects new investment to arrive swiftly.