The banning of the regional newspapers, with hard-copy readership in the region of 100,000 and a combined online daily unique user figure of over 62,000, was imposed by Everton Football Club in the aftermath of a week-long series published by the LDP&E entitled: Everton FC in focus: Just what does the future hold for the Blues?
The series of articles, which the club declined to participate in, focussed on the clubs finances, comment on the ongoing stadium issue, the 'search' for new owners and the fans view through a supporters poll.
Since then, the local journalists who have been denied access to players and staff as well as press-conferences, have had to make do with reporting second-hand news and mend by writing filler comment-pieces.
The current chairman and board of directors seem to have caught the banning bug; AGMs, EGMs, local journalists, all fair game for the current regime.
The message from The Bunker is clear then; do not dare to criticize, analyze, question nor examine, refrain from inquiry, scrutiny and inspection or we will ban your arse brother.
[caption id="attachment_297" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Your Arse"]
[/caption]In related news, the clubs official site has proudly announced they will be holding an exclusive Fans’ Conference in April.
Apparently, if you have already purchased your 2011/12 Season Ticket you could be one of the lucky 200 hand picked supporters who will be given the chance to pose questions to Chief Executive Officer Robert Elstone and a specially selected panel and 'talk about Club matters close to your heart' (local journalists and curious Evertonians need not apply).
I'm preparing my question as we speak:
"Hi Robert, firstly can I say thank you for allowing us plebs to take up some of your precious time, we are not worthy.....and erm, could you tell us all whether Mikel uses gel, wax or mousse on his gorgeous Spanish barnet?"
Marvellous!
