Hello everyone
Gordon here, you know the programme editor.
I have never answered any criticism before on any website..but thought I would on this occasion.
For information purposes, there are still 8 programmes left in the shop from Saturday and that was after selling some after the match..so the programmes did not sell out!
(what you really mean is the area nearest to you sold out)
Regarding no shiny cover (it's called lamination actually).I took a conscious decision not to have one for a number of reasons.
1. It costs 20p per programme to have it laminated.
2. The programme has to printed 24 hours earlier to have as you say a 'shiney cover'.
3. A lot of work goes into producing the programme..for your information it contains over 23,000 words and close on 100 photos. One person writes and compiles it (me)
and it is a nightmare to keep up to date. No one complains (like you say) on a wet and dark winters night when we are left with 100's of programmes and pies unsold and the club loses money. The programme is produced to make your club money and to try and keep you informed with stories and articles regarding the players. Information can now be recieved much quicker via the internet so I try not to repeat it.
Last season I asked for some feedback and I thank the 8 fans who replied, and I have taken their views onboard. Obviously you were not one of them and you think the programme is of poor quality, that is your view and you are entitled to it, but let me finish with a few facts.
1. The Oldham Athletic programme actually makes money unlike 42 other clubs who lose money.
2. Latics programme has won 7 awards over the last 5 seasons.
3. Everyone continually tries their best to provide the fans with entertainment, food, programmes etc and we try to be a caring family club and the staff are now beginning to get fed up with the continued criticism. We work long hours, sometimes 50-60 a week for little pay or thanks. We do this because it is our club, we want to 'cause we love Latics.
It is a great pity you do not feel the same way. It is time for the knocking to stop and the support for the club to begin.