A long-serving football steward, Tim Goodchild, has been offered a new role by AFC Bournemouth after his contract was abruptly terminated by email. Goodchild, from Wimborne, expressed his shock at receiving the message, which informed him his contract would not be renewed for the new season after more than half a century with the club.
The email, which Goodchild's family shared online, sparked a significant backlash among football fans. This prompted AFC Bournemouth to review its communication methods regarding changes to some matchday staff.
Jim Frevola, the club's head of business, acknowledged the error, stating, "The reality is we just communicated poorly... it was our mistake." Frevola confirmed he personally contacted Goodchild, and other affected stewards were also reached by club staff. Goodchild has since accepted the apology and the new position offered by the club.