Harrogate Town AFC has confirmed Simon Weaver and Jonathan Blezard as its new co-owners, securing the club's leadership and ambition for an immediate return to the English Football League. The change follows the end of Irving Weaver's tenure as owner after more than two years, with the new partnership pledging significant financial support and a commitment to the club's community roots.
Simon Weaver will continue as the men's first team manager while taking on his new ownership responsibilities. He has spent 17 years with the club, a period of unprecedented growth, and stated his day-to-day role in the dugout will not change. This continuity is seen as vital for a squad sitting second in the National League. The team's recent form is a key asset, having taken 28 points from their first 13 games, including a current four-game winning streak. They have also been scoring an average of 2.15 goals per 90 minutes this season, a potent attacking record that underpins their promotion challenge ahead of their next match at home to Sutton United on 24 October.
Blezard's commitment
Co-owner Jonathan Blezard, a local businessman and founder of Angstrom Sports, intends to play an active part in the club's development. He said the strong foundations laid under Irving Weaver's stewardship and Simon Weaver's long-term commitment gave him the confidence to invest. "I recognise what the club means to supporters and the local community," Blezard said. "We intend to make Harrogate Town something the whole town can feel part of and be proud of." He added that they expect to attract further investment and expertise over time to support growth.
Shared vision for growth
The new ownership structure, which meets all relevant regulatory requirements, aims to strengthen the club's men's and women's sections, player pathway, and ties with the Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation. Both owners have built a close working relationship over the past 14 months and share a vision to build on the existing foundations. The club's immediate sporting ambition remains clear: achieving promotion back to the EFL this season. With a group of young, talented players and strong backing from supporters at the Marcy Fitness Stadium, the project begins from a position of strength on the pitch.
The club has thanked its loyal supporters for their continued backing and urged them to get behind the team. Further details regarding the club's future plans under the new ownership will be announced in due course. Harrogate Town host 13th-placed Sutton United next Saturday, looking to extend their winning run and close the seven-point gap to league leaders Boreham Wood.
The original report is at Coventry City Football Club
