Torquay United's joint-chairman, Michael Westcott, has confirmed that the club is now debt-free after settling all outstanding payments—a commitment made following last year's takeover. However, he described the process as both "painful and expensive," with administrative costs reaching £750,000.
Torquay United Pays Off Debts After Takeover
Last year, Torquay United was placed into administration under former owner Clarke Osborne. The club was later rescued by the Bryn Consortium, which took ownership in the summer and pledged to clear all debts within six months.
Speaking in a recent Q&A session with fans, Westcott confirmed that the promise had been fulfilled but acknowledged the financial burden:
"That’s good news. All creditors have been paid in full, as we promised. The admin process itself has been painful and expensive... It has cost us three-quarters of a million pounds. That’s not investment into the club, that’s just settling past debts and funding a long and tortuous administration process."
Despite the challenges, Westcott emphasized that the club had anticipated the difficulties:
"We came in with our eyes wide open. The administrative fees were significantly higher than expected, which was frustrating. But the good news is that we are now a debt-free football club, which was our primary goal."
Supporting Local Businesses & Future Plans
Co-chairman Mark Bowes-Cavanagh expressed pride in settling debts owed to local businesses and sponsors, ensuring financial stability for both the club and its community partners:
"I feel very proud that we have supported all those local businesses and main sponsors by paying off those debts. The club is in a much stronger position now than it was a year ago. There has been a lot of hard work behind the scenes to ensure we got through this, and now we can move forward."
Looking ahead, Torquay United is working on two business strategies—one for promotion to a higher league and another for remaining in the
National League South.
There is also an upcoming announcement about a partnership with a local club to strengthen youth development, creating a talent pathway from South Devon College to Torquay United’s first team.
A membership scheme is also in the works, with Westcott confirming that new initiatives will be introduced in the coming weeks.
Torquay United Increases Playing Budget & Eyes Promotion
Manager Paul Wotton, who took charge in the summer, has been refining the squad, with some players leaving to make way for new signings.
Westcott revealed that the club has increased the playing budget by over 20% since the season began, enhancing squad quality.
"Quantity doesn’t necessarily mean quality. The additions we’ve made to the squad have significantly improved its overall strength, and I think everyone can see that."
With the team pushing for promotion, another large crowd is expected at Plainmoor this weekend as Torquay United takes on Bath City. The Gulls recently secured a crucial 1-0 away victory over Dorking Wanderers, keeping their promotion hopes alive.
Torquay United Issues Apology Over Fan Incident
However, the win against Dorking was overshadowed by an incident involving a supporter. A Torquay fan was caught on camera throwing a drink at Dorking Wanderers player Tony Craig.
Torquay United swiftly condemned the behavior, confirming that the individual had come forward and will face a club ban.
The club also issued a public apology to Craig and Dorking Wanderers, stating:
"This behavior does not reflect the club’s values or the vast majority of our devoted fans. Unfortunately, this is not the first instance of unacceptable fan behavior this season, and we have already received a reprimand from the FA. Further incidents could result in more severe consequences for the club."
Torquay United’s Bright Future
With financial stability secured, a stronger squad, and a clear plan for the club’s future,
Torquay United is now fully focused on success—both on and off the pitch.
As the season nears its climax, fans will be hoping that their club’s hard work behind the scenes translates into a promotion push and a brighter future.
