West Country Sport

New Chairman for Swindon Town

Sir William Patey at a Press Conference in Afghanistan earlier this year Photo: AP Photo/Musadeq Sadeq

Sir William Patey has recently come to the end of a long diplomatic career. He was British ambassador to Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia and Iraq. His skills of negotiation will stand him in good stead in tackling the niceties of the Football League and the famous outbursts of popular manager, Paolo di Canio.

I am delighted to become Chairman of Swindon Town at such an exciting time. I look forward to working with Paolo, the Board and the whole Club so that success on the pitch can continue and take the Club back to the npower Championship.

– Sir William Patey, Chairman, Swindon Town FC
Sir William welcoming David Cameron to Kabul in 2010 Credit: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

Sir William's appointment is still subject to approval from the Football League.

As well as his organisational experience, Sir William brings a lifelong love of football to the role. He grew up a Hibernian supporter and played although not as a professional. He has a clear vision for the club.

My task will be to secure new investment to support the programme of ground redevelopment and to co-ordinate the execution of the Club’s longer term strategic plans. I look forward to working with those who share the same ambitions for the Club both on and off the field and relish the opportunity to take on this challenge.

– Sir William Patey, Chairman, Swindon Town FC
Former Chairman, Jeremy Wray at the County Ground Credit: Simon Galloway/EMPICS Sport

His predecessor, Jeremy Wray, who was instrumental in bringing di Canio to Town, has decided to resign from the board with immediate affect. Sir William and the board have both thanked him for his "invaluable contribution" to the club.

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