FOLLOWING the news that the Newport County AFC Supporters Trust has raised the money to complete its takeover of the club, former chairman Les Scadding has written an open letter to fans.

Mr Scadding writes: "It is with great pleasure and great pride in the people of Newport that I now hand over my shares and therefore ownership of Newport County AFC.

"Exceeding the share offer target is an amazing achievement and I am personally thrilled at the outcome. Congratulations to the fans of Newport County!

"As I have previously said, it has been my privilege and honour to have held the position of chairman of Newport County AFC and to have contributed to the incredible history of the club.

"You are all now responsible for the next era, I believe that whatever decisions you make, the best interests of the club will be served well.

"As a lifelong member of the Trust, I shall always continue to support the club from the sidelines, from wherever that may be in the world.

"A sincere thank you to all those who have made this dream of a fan based club a reality.

"Dee and myself would like to thank the club and supporters for all the support shown to us throughout recent years and we wish the club all the very best for the future.

"Up the County."