There are numerous examples of the Trust’s achievements since its formation in 2003. Some of the most memorable are shown below:-
KHFC Board representation
This major founding objective was achieved in March 2011, when Karl Davies was appointed as KHIST representative to the Harriers Board of Directors. Since then we have been represented by John Davies (2012- 14)*, Geoff Coles (May 2014 – Feb 2017) and Dave Williams (Jan 2016 – Feb 2017).
*John continued as a KHFC Director in his own right – with a short break – until February 2017.
This successful period came to an end when the club was taken over and the new Chairman decided, amongst other major changes, that supporter representation was no longer required.
It remains a fundamental objective to secure future board representation but only when it’s, once again, agreed to be mutually advantageous and the independence of KHIST is respected.
The KHIST 2020 Lottery
This was launched in Nov 2010 and was the ‘flagship’ fundraiser for the Trust, until its winding up in Aug 2017. By then it had raised c. £250,000, most of which has since been expended for the benefit of our football club. The reinstatement of the lottery, whilst desirable, cannot be contemplated until the independence of KHIST – and therefore decisions relating to its finances – is recognized by the club and, only then, with considerable assistance from the local community.
The KHIST Members’ Draw (link)
This was launched for KHIST Members only, in Aug 2019, in response to an AGM resolution. The competition is still in its infancy but is already profitable and growing in popularity. Cash prizes are regularly reviewed to ensure that these are as attractive as possible. Retention of a ‘fighting fund’. A substantial sum has been accumulated and invested in accordance with the Constitution and AGM resolutions. This will be retained for use, at the board’s discretion, to help with efforts to ensure the financial security of the club for future generations or, if that’s not considered possible, to help fund a phoenix club to ensure the continuation of football in Kidderminster.
KHFC Shareholding
Prior to the 2018 Rights Issue, our investments had increased our shareholding in the club to 6.74%. That percentage was, however substantially reduced when the then Chairman secured a controlling interest. KHIST (on behalf of our members) is still the 4 th biggest shareholder with 337,247 shares.
In accordance with our Constitution, the Trust will continue to require the issue of KHFC shares in return for donations / investments. Fundraising events KHIST and Trust members have arranged numerous events to raise vital funds, over the years – some of the more notable have been:-
Various fans’ forums (usually attended by KHFC board members and representatives of team management and players).
Numerous social events, tribute evenings etc., have regularly attracted attendances of 100 and more.
The ‘Sons of Beaches’ Concert (March 2010) which raised £900.
The 2004 Harriers v. Birmingham City re-run in 2011.
Operation Full House in Feb 2011 – a concerted media and fundraising event led by KHIST, which raised about £40.000
The 12 th Man competition – organised for many seasons and offering the opportunity for a supporter to have squad number 12 for the season, with various added benefits
Executive box and various other raffles.
The World Cup Draw in 2010
The Cover the Pitch Campaign (2007) – KHIST collected loose change at home matches.
The Red Army Fund (2007 to 2009) – Supporters made monthly contributions, primarily to help improve performances on the pitch.
Protection of the Aggborough site
In 2014, Wyre Forest District Council accepted our application for the stadium and the adjacent car park to be registered as an Asset of Community Value. The Trust has recently renewed this registration of our continuing interest and, extended it to include the Social Club and its car park.
Non-League Day Commencing in 2014, KHIST has organised activities each season when Harriers have had a home match on the selected date. It’s hoped to recommence these events now the club’s ownership has changed.
KHIST Fans’ Day
Originating in 2009, this would be an end of season football competition at Aggborough, when special guests (including former Harriers players) were invited to take part. Discussions had taken place to reintroduce a 5-a-side competition this year but, these were frustrated by Covid-19.
Sponsored Walks
We have been proud to have organised some memorable long distance walks to away grounds, raising funds for KHIST/KHFC and for charities:
Grays Athletic ( 2005) Raised £700 for the Trust.
Histon (2009) A substantial sum was shared between the County Air Ambulance and KHIST
Forest Green Rovers (2011) £36,000 raised for McMillan Cancer Support in memory of former KHIST Chairman, Steve Millington.
AFC Telford United (April 2015) £19,000+ raised for baby loss charity ‘Towards Tomorrow Together’ – since reformed locally, in Worcestershire and West Midlands as ‘HUGS’.
Gloucester City at Cheltenham (April 2017) Over £15,000 raised for the Cancer Unit of Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital, in memory of local teacher, Beckie Giddins.
A walk to Alfreton, intended for the British Heart Foundation, in 2018 did not take place due to match postponements and it then proved difficult to promote a substitute walk from Malvern to Bewdley in the June but, we hope to arrange future charity walks depending on the club’s forthcoming fixture lists.
Notable miscellaneous donations
Commencing in 2009, KHIST has, when considered appropriate, donated ‘funds for shares’ to enable the 1st team to stop overnight to prepare for important matches.
In previous years KHIST has been able to help the club to bring in players and coaching staff. Examples are: Dean Bennett (2007), Chris Mcphee (2009) Tim Flowers (2010) and, of course, Jonny Mullins.
We have assisted the club with scouting costs and, in particular, funded the Scout 7 System in 2007. This enabled Manager, Mark Yates to make preparations for forthcoming matches.
KHFC Clubman of the Year
Former KHIST board members Dave Pountney and Dave Mole have both received this accolade from the football club.
KHIST for the future
In recent times, the board’s priority has been to ensure that the Trust remains active and relevant to represent the interests of Harriers supporters for the present and for the future. Our success in retaining the loyal support of our members, in times
when attempts have been made to sideline the Trust and attendances at Aggborough have drifted away has been an unbelievable achievement.
The new priority is to reinstate mutually beneficial relations with the new owners, as soon as possible.
Updated – May 2020
