Following our open letter to Laurence Bassini last week, the Watford Observer has received the following response from the Hornets’ new major shareholder...

Dear Watford Observer, Thank you for your letter, the contents of which I read with interest and understanding.

I appreciate the concerns that were raised in your letter and, over time, I will sincerely try to address all of the questions that you have raised.

I without doubt accept that it is perfectly reasonable for a local newspaper to feel it should attempt to represent its readers in putting forward questions, however I would like to stress that it is difficult at this early stage to address all of the questions point-by-point as I am presently familiarising myself with the internal workings of the club.

It is, as stated, very early days for my colleagues and I here at Watford, but I will in due course answer all your questions.

I am happy to provide some brief detail on some of the subjects.

We are currently drafting a document to invite tenders for the south-west corner of the stadium; we have started negotiations with a view to improving the pitch; we are in dialogue with local authorities regards the east side of the ground; we are in detailed discussions about a new PA system; and were also obtaining quotes to replace seating across parts of the stands at Vicarage Road.

I fully accept that Watford’s fans – some of whom I’ve had the pleasure of meeting at home matches throughout this season – will want reassurances as to the safe keeping of the club in the future.

As Watford FC Limited, we bought into the current board’s vision for the club and this approach will be maintained. We will not at this juncture be deviating from that vision.

Our intention is to add value where the board feel it is appropriate – and we will be guided by them at all times.

It is key that the feeling of stability here at Watford is not only maintained but enhanced by our actions in both the short and longer-term.

We recognise that we’re custodians of the club, here for a snap-shot of time in the wider history of the club. It is to the supporters, who will be here forever, to which we feel accountable with our decision-making.

Good communication along the way is key to continuing to generate the togetherness and unity that we know already exists at Vicarage Road.

To keep the club close to its supporters is essential if we are to progress.

Actions will ultimately speak louder than words, so please be patient as we settle in.

We’ll be in touch again soon.

Kind regards, Laurence