Crawley Town fans have been left fuming by the club’s decision to dismiss operations director Kelly Derham.
In a statement released on the club website, the reasons behind the contract termination were given as financial.
“Crawley Town has today terminated the contract between itself and operations director, Kelly Derham,” the statement read.
“Kelly has been a stalwart for the club for nearly a decade, and her efforts have been invaluable to the club. During her time with Crawley, Kelly has worked in the accounts, as club secretary and as operations director.
“This has been a hugely difficult decision to make, but in light of the current financial challenges the club is facing it is one that the club was forced into.”
It appears, however, that Kelly Derham was not even present when the decision was taken to terminate her contract further fanning the anger of supporters.
— Craig Derham (@craigderham) December 10, 2019
Reds fans and former players have reacted angrily on social media, demanding an explanation from the club. Here are some of those reactions:
I’ve known Kelly over 2 spells at the club, the first spell it was a lot more straight forward but the second spell I seen how tough things were at times at the club but she always stayed strong! The work she’s done is nothing short of incredible! Thank you for everything Kel ❤️
— Mark Connolly (@Mark5Connolly) December 10, 2019
An absolute disgrace that Kelly Derham has been fired due to “financial difficulties”
The heart of our club office being dismissed. And other staff being told before letting her know personally.
Disgusting @Erdem_Konyar @selimgaygusuz @crawleytown
Podcast 2️⃣0️⃣ Kelly? https://t.co/1J8KRXzaQx
— Straight Red CTFC Podcast (@StraightRedCTFC) December 10, 2019
2/2
I will still complete my purchase of the scoreboard because I’m doing it for the fans & they need a pick-me-up more than ever.
Any other financial support including the training ground will be on hold unless she is Reinstated.
I’m off Twitter for a few days. #fuming😡
— Paul (@ctfchongkong) December 10, 2019
This is Poor really poor kelly made me and my family welcome at all times my loan spell there, and nothing was to much for her help all the players, the club has lost a loyal and good person 😟
— lee (@fatmanfowls) December 10, 2019
#teamtowntogether?! I think not. Firstly shocking decision to get rid of Kelly, someone who has worked so hard for this club, done so many roles and been nothing but you could tell everyone loved her when I worked for the club, but the way she found is a disgraceful! Shambles!
— Jay (@JamieMcWaters) December 10, 2019
Absolutley disgraceful. Kelly bled Crawley and you sack her through an email without her even being there 🤬
Need new ownership, this is a grudge we won't forget 😣
— Sam (@SamRNewton) December 10, 2019
Is it April Fools day?? Shocking news 🤬
— Dan Maguire (@EvilMing77) December 10, 2019
Absolute disgrace. She has always been here for the club and that’s the thanks you get 😡
— Tony Steer (@TonySteer5) December 10, 2019
This is an absolute joke!!Kelly has more knowledge of how to run our Club than anyone! Wth is going on @crawleytown?! 😡 https://t.co/vANUGWRDpL
— Carol Bates (@CarolBates) December 10, 2019