Eden Bearshaw will be Dale's new matchday announcer

Dave Sweetmore, Russ Green (Dale CEO) and Eden Bearshaw

Rochdale Football Club has confirmed the appointment of Eden Bearshaw as the new match day announcer.

The club had come in for criticism after Mr Bearshaw was informed on the last day of the season that his services as the new match day announcer would not be needed after all.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/4/sport-news/109797/rochdale-football-club-accused-of-disgusting-treatment-of-eden-bearshaw

A statement published on the club website says: "Rochdale Football Club can confirm that there have been no changes to the already announced appointment of Eden Bearshaw as the club’s new matchday announcer.

Eden will start his new role in pre-season, taking over from Dave Sweetmore who announced his departure after 17-years last month.

Following Dave’s return to Rochdale, it had been hoped that Eden could work alongside Dave, in order to further enhance the club’s matchday experience, but following a series of scheduled meetings, including today, we can announce that this will not put into practice.

Dave Sweetmore commented: “On returning to Rochdale I was delighted to be asked back to the club, in a role working alongside the newly appointed stadium announcer.

“After several planned discussions over the last three weeks, we, as a collective, have now reached the decision to continue as planned, with Eden solely taking on the role, and I again wish him the very best of luck.

“The club has been a huge part of my life for 17-years and I will miss working alongside the most friendly, hard-working and committed staff in the league.

“My heart lies with Rochdale and always will. Some of my best friends are here, and the club I will always be around if needed.”

Eden Bearshaw added: “We explored the possibility of a dual role on matchdays over three weeks ago, but following further discussions over the last couple of weeks and then again today involving all three parties, I felt that this wouldn’t be a viable proposition.

“I understand the club’s perspective of looking into Dave Sweetmore being involved back at the club following his return to Rochdale, but I was keen to solely take up the role and we have both reached a mutual understanding that it is in the best interest of all parties to move forward in this way.

“I have always looked up to Dave in his role here at the club and I hope to keep up his high standards. I would like to thank Dave for his support and understanding on this matter.”