Twin sisters (and CAS Trust members) Christine and Jennifer Stephens have been Charlton supporters for over fifty years since being introduced to the club through their family - in particular through their aunt who was a bridesmaid at Sam Bartram's wedding. They have been West Stand season ticket holders for twenty years as well as being members of Valley Gold VIP members. They sent the following letter to the club last week:
"This is the first time we have felt the need to write to the club on any subject but we are incensed by the recent outrageous statement concerning the events at the Valley last Sunday. We do not know who wrote it but it is a disgrace to suggest that loyal fans (NOT customers) are wanting the club to fail. Relegation back to Division 1 is the last thing that any loyal and sane supporter wants for its club. They are showing their concern for the future and for the turmoil over the last two years.
The dismissal of Chris Powell and the sale of some key players in the January 2014 transfer window was probably one of the most unpopular decisions ever made by a Charlton board and this has subsequently been exacerbated by a succession of a further six managers making the club a laughing stock amongst many pundits and fans who see the club as a "basket case" with no stability. We appreciate that the current owner has made financial investment on the pitch and other areas but without success on the pitch this is all meaningless.
We have been supporters now for over fifty years and have seen the club go through many difficult times (and sometimes great success when we had our spells in the Premiership) but we have never before been aware of such deep disillusion amongst the fans. We are amongst those who doubt that the board is really interested in the feelings of loyal fans who are dismayed at the direction the club is taking. We shall not be renewing our season tickets until the fans are given some respect and assurances that they are not just "customers". We are deeply offended to be classed as such."
CHRISTINE and JENNIFER STEPHENS