'On the Ball' Law Firm
AFC Bournemouth chairman praises ‘on the ball’ law firm
THE chairman of AFC Bournemouth has praised ‘on the ball’ law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors for handling the sale of the football club to new owners.
Grant Esterhuizen, Head of Ellis Jones’ Company Commercial Team, has acted for Jeff Mostyn and Steve Sly, Vice-Chairman, since May.
The law firm was responsible for advising the management as potential investors looked at acquiring the cash-stricken club. New owners Sport-6, a Liverpool-based sports marketing company, has now signed a deal to buy the Cherries. The new board of directors, including new co-owners Paul Baker and Alistair Saverimutto of Sport-6, will still be chaired by Mr Mostyn with Mr Sly as Vice-Chairman.
Ellis Jones also advised the club on its dealings with the Football League which resulted in an 11th hour deal to keep their place in League Two. In return, the Cherries accepted a 17-point deduction for the new season and also agreed to pay around £500,000 to its unsecured creditors. Acceptance of the offer saw AFC Bournemouth’s Football League share transferred to the new company, leading to the club finally exiting administration.
Mr Mostyn described Ellis Jones’ involvement as “absolutely superb” adding: “The firm has guided us through every step of what has been at times a tortuous process.
“Throughout Steve Sly and I have had the utmost confidence in the advice we have received.”
Mr Esterhuizen paid tribute to other Ellis Jones’ staff involved in the Cherries’ work including fellow partner John Crawford and company commercial staff Sarah Hopcroft and Amy Mellor.
He added: “"It was an absolute pleasure to advise on a matter which has a direct benefit for Bournemouth football fans and the local community.
“We wish the club's new owners, the players and the fans all the success possible in the future."