Ex-Bury FC Owner Faces Fraud Charges in Court Appearance
Former Bury FC owner Steven Dale and his son, Christian, appeared at Chester Magistrates’ Court on March 19. Both men face allegations connected to the club’s collapse and financial affairs.
Court hearing and charges
Steven Dale, 70, is accused of fraud by false representation. The allegation relates to a £50,000 Bounce Back Loan taken out for Bury FC Heritage Ltd in February 2021.
He is also charged with failing to keep, preserve or deliver adequate accounting records. Those counts refer to The Bury Football Club Company Limited and Dale Acquisitions Ltd under the Companies Act 2006 and Insolvency Act 1986.
Charges against Christian Dale
Christian Dale, 41, of the same Whitmore, Staffordshire address, faces similar record-keeping charges. His alleged offences relate to Dale Acquisitions Ltd under the same legislation.
Procedure and next steps
Both defendants were granted bail following the hearing. The case was committed to Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court for further proceedings.
A plea and trial preparation hearing is scheduled for Thursday, April 16. The matters follow an investigation by the Insolvency Service.
Club background and context
Businessman Steven Dale bought Bury FC for £1 in December 2018. He purchased the club from Stewart Day, who stood down after six years as chairman.
Financial problems affected the club during that period. In August 2019, Bury was expelled from the English Football League after 125 years in the competition.
In 2020, Dale placed the club company into administration. Supporters then formed Bury Association Football Club while the original club remained in crisis.
Notes
- The allegations remain unproven and will be tested in court.
- Investigations were carried out by the Insolvency Service.
- Reporting by Filmogaz.com will follow further developments.
The ex-Bury FC owner and his son appeared at a court hearing amid these fraud charges and record-keeping allegations. Filmogaz.com will update readers as the case advances.
