Pink News 22nd April 2000

McLeish pays into transfer fund
 

Alex McLeish could be set to dip into the transfer market over the summer - with some of his own cash. The Hibs boss has signed up with the Erin Community Trust, a new organisation set up to raise cash to strengthen the team.

For £5 each month, Hibs supporters can become members of the Trust, which aims to raise more than £100,000 every year.

The organisation was the brainchild of Hibs fan Dave Shanks and it has already raised thousands of pounds in the few months it has been in place.

"Having the manager on board is a high boost for the Trust," said convener John Campbell. "We are delighted to have him."

The Trust is committed to making a cash donation to McLeish to spend on transfer fees or, as is becoming increasingly common, wages for Bosman signings.

Successful

Although independent of the football club, it has the full support of the board, including director Erick Davidson and chairman Malcolm McPherson.

Other members include MSP, former weatherman and die-hard Hibs fan Lloyd Quinan.

The Trust is run by a management committee, consisting of hibs fans, two of whom are Trustees, along with Famous five legend Lawrie Reilly, Skol Cup hero Keith Wright and former centre half turned sports broadcaster Craig Paterson.

"The manager was so enthused by the prospect of getting extra financial help in his attempt to take hibs forward, that he couldn't resist signing up too," said ERIN Trust spokesperson Jillian Binnie.

"What other manager in the SPL has the prospect of a cheque from the supporters to spend? And what other manager is so committed to making his club successful in the long term that he puts his hand in his own pocket."