Yeovil Town FC Fans Demand Manager Mark Cooper Lead Wreath-Laying Ceremony at Remembrance Service

Yeovil Town FC fans are calling for team manager Mark Cooper to lay the wreath at this Sunday’s Remembrance service in Yeovil, arguing that the behaviour of club owner Martin Hellier has disqualified him from representing the club at the solemn event. Fans feel Cooper would provide the respect and dignity they believe the occasion deserves, given recent controversies surrounding Hellier’s social media presence and the background of the club’s CEO.

Martin Hellier, the club’s current owner, has sparked outrage among Yeovil Town supporters and Armed Forces by posting on social media under the picture of “Bobby Sands”—the name of the well-known IRA hunger striker, whilst claiming he was entering a hunger strike himself.

Many fans and local residents find the reference insensitive and disrespectful, especially in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday, a day dedicated to honouring those who have fallen in service to the country.

The controversy deepens as Hellier’s CEO, who claims to have previously worked as a bodyguard for the late Mohamed Al-Fayed, has also faced scrutiny. Al-Fayed’s legacy is tainted by numerous scandals, including allegations of sexual misconduct. The CEO’s association with Al-Fayed has stirred discomfort among Yeovil Town supporters, who are eager to distance their club from any potential connections to such figures.

Weston - Self Claimed Sex Offender's Bodyguard  - Hellier who's on hunger strike whilst pontificating IRA Member Bobby Sands

In light of these issues, fans have turned to Mark Cooper as the figure they feel is most suited to lay the wreath on Sunday. Supporters argue that Cooper’s leadership and character represent the values they hold dear, and they trust him to bring respect to the occasion.

“Mark Cooper is the right person to represent Yeovil Town FC at the Remembrance service. He embodies the dignity and respect that this solemn day requires,” said one supporter. “We want him, not someone who posts online as Bobby Sands or has associations with disgraced figures.”

The request from fans underscores growing tension between Yeovil Town’s management and its loyal supporters, who feel that recent actions have cast an undeserved shadow over their club. As Remembrance Sunday approaches, the fans hope the club will honor their wishes, allowing Mark Cooper to lead the club’s representation and ensure the solemnity of the day is upheld.

Yeovil Town FC has yet to make an official statement regarding the wreath-laying ceremony, but the fans’ message is clear: they want a figure who reflects their respect for the armed forces and their values, and they believe Mark Cooper is that figure.