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About

Who we are, how we represent Watford supporters, and the role we play in strengthening dialogue with the club.

WHO WE ARE

The Watford Supporters Board consists of elected supporters and representatives from recognised supporter organisations. It provides a clear, structured link between the club and its fanbase, ensuring supporter views are heard.

Our six elected members cover the following key areas: ‘Commercial’, ‘Finance’ and ‘Match-day & Supporter Engagement’. They work alongside two representatives from established supporter groups including the Watford Supporters Trust and Watford’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion community. This blend of backgrounds and expertise allows the board to reflect a wide range of supporter priorities and experiences.

We are committed to transparency, constructive challenge, and positive collaboration. Our role is to help strengthen the connection between the club and its supporters, ensuring that fan voices are heard, respected, and represented.

MEET THE BOARD

Meet the independent fans and supporter group representatives who work together to represent your voices in discussions with Watford Football Club.
01

Alex King

Commercial Representative and Board Chair

I’ve supported Watford FC and attended matches with my family since I was eight, and I’m honoured to have been elected as the first Chair of the Supporters’ Board. My goal is to ensure all demographics, especially younger fans, are represented and considered, while encouraging engagement that brings through fresh voices and gives every generation a role in shaping the club’s present and future.

Professionally, my work in project management has taught me that engagement and communication are vital. I believe this role can help the club and supporters uncover those extra 1% gains that make a difference on matchdays.

02

James Bateson

Commercial Representative

I’ve sat in the same seat in the Rookery End for nearly 30 years, surrounded by family and friends, and Watford FC has been part of my life for over 50 years.

I believe every voice matters, and as a member of the Supporters’ Board my goal is to strengthen the bond between fans and the club, ensuring supporters’ voices are heard, valued and respected.

Professionally, I lead a large team in one of the world’s leading law firms and have served on various executive committees and advisory boards. All supporters of our club care passionately about it, and I am no different.

03

Nick Trigg

Finance Representative & Board Secretary

I grew up in Watford and still live locally. My family and I are proud Watford supporters. I’ve attended matches since 1977/78 and held a season ticket for most seasons. I’ve seen our rise to Division 1, FA Cup and Play-Off finals, and Premier League campaigns, but I simply enjoy supporting Watford whatever its standing. I’m an accountant with over 35 years’ experience, used to analysing organisations’ finances.

My main concern is that we have a financially sustainable club, preserved for current and future generations of supporters.

04

Steve Cutmore

Finance Representative

I’ve been a lifelong Watford fan for nearly 50 years. Growing up near Vicarage Road, match days became a tradition, full of unforgettable highs and challenging lows. I’ve held a season ticket for much of that time, and my connection to the club means everything to me. I’ve witnessed incredible moments, from promotions and cup runs to battling through tough seasons, and my passion for the Hornets has never wavered.

This deep-rooted love for Watford has shaped my life and created a lasting bond with the club and its community, which I’m proud to support.

05

Reza Bitaraf

Matchday & Supporter Engagement Representative

I’ve passionately supported Watford FC since the late 1980s and, like many of you, have experienced the highs, the lows and everything in between. I’ve held a season ticket in the Rookery for many years and regularly travel to away games to support the team and create lasting memories with friends.

My mission as part of the Supporters’ Board is to strengthen the relationship between the club and its fans during my tenure, ensuring we have a football club that my daughters – and future generations – can proudly support for years to come.

06

Flis Irving

Matchday & Supporter Engagement Representative

Hornet since 1967! Born and raised in Watford between two brothers, I gained a new family member at age 10: Watford Football Club. That’s how I see this wonderful club: family. My five children became Junior Hornets – several still hold season tickets – and my three grandchildren have been similarly indoctrinated! This special football club fosters love, loyalty, friendship and passion – it’s in my soul.

Away from football, my interests include photography, fitness, singing, playing musical instruments, baking, handcrafts and tap dancing. I was that unconventional little girl in the 1960s with a pair of knitting needles in one hand and a pair of muddy football boots in the other!

07

David Butler MBE

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Representative

I’m a very fit 81-year-old who lost both legs and my left hand after finding an unexploded bomb at age 11.

Since 2014, it’s been a privilege to chair the Watford FC Enables Group, working with the club to provide first-rate facilities for disabled supporters. In 2017, I created and chaired the Premier League Disability Advisory Group, representing thousands of disabled fans.

Away from football, I’ve competed in 125 races and British and World Championship rallies, carried the Olympic Torch, and drove the Orrery in the Paralympic Opening Ceremony.

Watford is family, and inclusion is my passion.

08

Steve Temple

Watford Supporters Trust Representative

I’m the current Chair of the Watford Supporters’ Trust and played a key role in working with the club and the Football Supporters’ Association to form the Supporters’ Board.

Born in Watford, I attended Watford Grammar School before studying at Loughborough University and qualifying as a Chartered Accountant.

I’ve supported Watford since 1978 and have held a season ticket for many years. I also played for WIFC, the Watford supporters’ team, for several seasons, which strengthened my connection to the club and its community.

My focus is ensuring fans’ voices are heard and our relationship with the club continues to grow.