A POTENTIAL Bury FC buyer has called on fans to come together for the good of the club’s future.

A section of supporters are split on the best future direction of the stricken Shakers, expelled from the EFL back in August 2019 and put into administration last month.

Not all are in favour of the phoenix club, Bury AFC, currently embarking on its first season in the North West Counties First Division North and playing its football at Radcliffe’s Neuven Stadium.

A fundraiser set up by supporters’ trust Forever Bury to take the club from Steve Dale has also divided opinion in recent weeks.

Now David Hilton, who revealed earlier this week that his talks to take over at Gigg Lane had stalled, has called on the fanbase to unite as they hope for a brighter future

An investor at Ilkeston Town and the managing director at property firm Maxwell Cohen, he said on Twitter: “I believe wholeheartedly that the infighting of a few will be the main reason the genuine supporters of Bury FC lose their club.

“The club is in a hole and will need all supporters united to dig itself out if the club is to self-sustain and compete moving forward.

“What the people of AFC have done is admirable. They have provided hope in some dark times for people who miss the interaction and passion of football.

“I believe however there are a certain minority on both sides with their own agendas. These people are not true Bury fans.

“If you are a true football fan your club is in your DNA. You do not choose the club, it’s already chosen for you.

“Be grateful, be proud and most of all work tirelessly together. You are family. I will keep you updated, but if I cannot help I wish you all the luck in the world.”

Dale placed the Shakers into administration last month with the club’s affairs being handled by Steven Wiseglass, a director at Inquesta Corporate Recovery & Insolvency, who has been appointed administrator.

Wiseglass was previously responsible for the club’s Company Voluntary Agreement, a move by Dale to reduce the club’s debts which defaulted.

In an address to Ilkeston’s supporters on Monday, Hilton said he "could not proceed” with a deal for the club.

His statement brought a response from Forever Bury who suggested they had “referred” Hilton to Dale and they would “continue to work with all parties to try and secure a deal”.

The potential investor was keen to clarify things however.

Hilton said: “In response to a statement issued by Forever Bury I would like to confirm a few matters.

“Firstly, FB did not bring me to the table nor did they direct me to Mr Wiseglass. FB contacted me toward the end of my enquiries and it was a short, pleasant conversation to outline my plans.

“Second, I have absolutely no intention of redeveloping Gigg Lane. Why would I with its history, being so well protected and in an area where property values are not great? Trust me when I say this, there are far better options for that closer to home.”