'We need to read the room' - Bonnyrigg turn Rangers and Celtic colts decision over to fans

A series of conference calls are being prepared by the New Dundas Park club to gauge fan reaction to the plans set out by the league on Wednesday night.

The Lowland League statement revealed discussions for the Old Firm entering secondary sides in the fifth tier on a one-off basis next season had been opened – and pledged the plans would not ‘adversely affect’ existing members.

The Colt teams would not be able to be promoted and clubs have been asked to a meeting to declare their interest in the proposals, or not, on Monday.

That set club treasurer Brendan Parkinson into organising the online meetings for club members stretching from officials and sponsors to season ticket holders to hear more details and express their opinion.

It is a polarising subject that Supporters Direct Scotland recently polled football fans on, and a democratic process is the fairest way at Bonnyrigg the treasurer explained.

"We’re a members club, so we’re putting this out to our members to make sure that the decision we make is representative of our fan base, rather than the opinions of a few. It’s a subject that comes up frequently and we all have individual opinions. As a club don’t want to read the room wrong by our supporters.

"They will have seen the statement from the league on Wednesday night and there might be questions. We will set out the details and have a grown up conversation about the plan and see how we take it forward.

"I’m hoping for a good turnout – I’d like to get enough of a cross-section of our support so that we have a decent sample of opinion to take to the meeting on Monday night to express our declaration of interest.”

It’s a quick turnaround time and while the club has made their feelings on the timescale known, online video calls are the only way in the circumstances.

Rose supporters who do not hold a season ticket but would like to air their views can also contact the club via the website.

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