Gillingham fans have left chairman Paul Scally close to tears after rallying round their club.

Scally wrote an open letter last week, telling supporters he couldn’t afford to refund season ticket money for the 2020/21 campaign, which was played behind closed doors due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

He asked fans for their views in an online survey and has been overwhelmed by the response, with many telling him they don’t want their cash back.

“I had a long meeting with our chairman, he’s absolutely gobsmacked with the support he’s had back,” revealed boss Steve Evans.

“He was almost in tears when he was telling me how emotional he was hearing the response of people who want to help the football club."

Asked if the majority of fans have so far waived refunds, Evans added: “I think they have.

“I don’t know the percentage but I think the fans are saying we want to help the club, and it has been tough for chairman at times, I’ve got no doubt.

“I’ve had many a conversation during the pandemic when he’s been down and stressed about it and I can understand it because he’s one man and he puts his life into but that’s why he was possibly quite emotional.

“It was just nice to share a coffee with him and he opened up a little bit.

“I did say to him I hope I can say to people that you appreciate it and he said, ‘Steve, I don’t get involved in what you say,’ so I hope he’s not upset the fact I’ve said it.”

Season ticket holders have until 5pm on June 25 to respond to the survey, which can be accessed by clicking here.

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