Physical and verbal abuse sees Dons Trust board member step down early from role
Niall Couper has stood down from The Dons Trust board after “physical and verbal” abuse was directed towards him following AFC Wimbledon’s 1-0 loss at home to Sutton United on Saturday.
The Dons suffered their seventh loss of the League Two season after Craig Eastmond’s 30th-minute strike gave Sutton all three points.
Johnnie Jackson’s side only registered one shot on target during the 90 minutes.
In a statement on the Dons Trust website, Couper said: “I have taken the difficult decision to stand down early from the board.
“Over my entire period on the board, I have had abuse directed at me on social media.
“Sadly that has intensified in recent weeks. And on Saturday, in two separate incidents, I was threatened physically and verbally – including once in front of my 11–year–old niece, who was really rattled by it. She had taken her best friend to the game for the first time.
“I am only thankful that my own eldest daughter, a long–standing season ticket holder, was not with me.
“I will let others who have worked with me over the last two years assess my record on the board and judge me on the manifesto I was elected on.
“I hope those that truly care about AFC Wimbledon have the strength to step forward and build a better club.
“I tried, but in the end I felt chewed up and spat out. And ultimately I have to do what is best for my own mental health.”
Couper will stay on until the next AGM to allow a smooth transition.
Graham Stacey also stood Down from The Dons Trust board earlier this month.
There are set to be seven seats available at this year’s The Dons Trust elections.
PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD
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Where was the report when the head of the board made threats to a fan then eh?