RamsTrust is pleased to confirm its Board appointments for 2026/27 following the Annual General Meeting and the subsequent appointment of officers and co-option of two new Board members.

These appointments will support the Trust’s work on behalf of its members and the wider Derby County fan base, maintaining an independent and constructive voice for supporters.

AGM election results

At the AGM, held on Thursday 24 September, members re-elected Hilary Leam and Steve Kitson to the RamsTrust Board. Tom Bestwick was elected as a full Board member, having previously served as a co-opted member. All three elections were approved as follows: 

• Hilary Leam: three years — until AGM 2029
• Steve Kitson: three years — until AGM 2029
• Tom Bestwick: three years — until AGM 2029.

Officer appointments

Hilary Leam will continue to serve as Chair, with David Watts appointed as Vice Chair. Angie Kerry will continue in her roles as Secretary and Tim Gibbs as Treasurer.

The Trust thanks all four officers, and every Board member, for the time, knowledge and commitment they give to representing members and supporting the work of RamsTrust.

Thank you to Jim Coyle

We offer our heartfelt thanks to Jim Coyle, who has stepped down from the RamsTrust Board and his role as Vice Chair after many years of service.

Jim has made an exceptional contribution to the Trust, offering wise counsel, continuity, and unwavering support through some of the most difficult and significant periods in Derby County’s history. His knowledge, judgement and commitment to representing supporters have been invaluable, as has the support he has given to his fellow Board members.

On behalf of the Board and our members, we thank Jim for everything he has contributed to RamsTrust. He will be greatly missed.

Welcoming Paul Bale and Matthew Gibbs

Following consideration of their applications, the Board has co-opted Paul Bale and Matthew Gibbs. We are pleased to welcome them both and look forward to the experience and perspectives they will bring to the Trust’s work.

Paul has supported Derby County since 1983, when his grandad first took him to the Baseball Ground. A supporter at home and away, he brings experience of working with different agencies and diverse groups, alongside skills in communication, organisation and teamwork. Paul is keen to help strengthen the voice of supporters and contribute to member engagement and the Trust’s wider activities.

Matthew is a Derby County season ticket holder and an IT engineer specialising in infrastructure, enterprise systems administration, and technical problem-solving. He brings experience of maintaining secure systems, planning projects and working across teams. Matthew is keen to use his skills to support the Trust’s digital communications and make it easier for members to share their views and stay informed.

Both co-options run until the 2027 AGM, when Paul and Matthew may choose to apply to become elected Board members.

RamsTrust’s work depends on volunteers giving their time and experience on behalf of fellow supporters. We thank everyone who stood for election, put themselves forward for co-option or continues to contribute to the Trust, and all members who took part in the AGM.