Jepson's Castleford takeover moves step closer

Lifelong Castleford Tigers fan Martin Jepson has moved a step closer to total control of the club after agreeing a deal to buy the shares of the current owners.

The property businessman has been an investor in the Super League club in recent years and his Ergo Real Estate company have been long-term sponsors.

The club has now announced that the terms of an option agreement for Jepson to buy up the shares held by Janet and Ian Fulton have been decided.

"I am thrilled to have concluded this agreement which will allow me to attract new, like-minded investors to the club," Jepson said.

"I have been a lifelong fan, and it is my ambition to take the club and its fans on a journey of success and to replicate former glories."

Jepson joined the board in December, bought 32 per cent of shares and made a significant investment into the club. He now has until 31 January 2025 to trigger the buy-out.

The move means Jepson becomes chairman of the club with immediate effect, with Ian Fulton stepping down and the Fulton family set to relinquish control after more than 30 years of representation on the board.

"I couldn't be more excited about the future ahead and I am totally committed to both the club and its fans and giving 100 per cent to this project," Jepson added.

"When I joined the board, I said that I wanted to secure the club's immediate future and bring long-term stability and that will remain the focus.

"The fans have been starved of real success in recent years and I will do everything in my power to deliver excellence on the playing field and improved fan engagement at all times."