Pop group Boyzone has cut formal ties with the Magpies
Pop group Boyzone are no longer formally involved with Chorley although they continue to maintain an interest in the club’s fortunes.
The Irish boyband which shot to fame in the 1990s and has had a string of blockbuster hits became partners of the club in 2024.
This high-profile partnership was compared to the celebrity takeover of Wrexham by American actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who have guided the Red Dragons from non-league to the Championship – one step below the Premier League.
Boyzone’s initial involvement with the club was driven by band member Shane Lynch who is a business partner of Magpies shareholder and director James Waldie alongside owner Prince Yemoh.
Lynch was joined by other members of the group including Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden for a number of games over the past couple of years.
Indeed, Lynch has remained an avid watcher of the club over the course of this season.
In a statement following fans’ meeting at Victory Park, the club said: “James (Waldie) explained that there was initial interest from Boyzone in becoming more involved with Chorley FC.
"The group expressed enthusiasm about supporting the club and becoming more involved. Shane has attended matches and the rest of the band continue to follow the club’s progress.
“However, due to other professional commitments and their careers moving in a different direction, the original plans discussed did not materialise as initially anticipated.
"They are not formally involved with the club at this time, but they remain interested and may support future projects when the opportunity is right.”
Meanwhile, the club also revealed that shareholders have worked on a number of improvements aligned with the club’s long-term vision, including taking steps to address and reduce significant historical debt.
The statement added: “Securing ownership of Victory Park remains a key objective for all shareholders, and there are ongoing, constructive discussions aimed at making the ambition a reality.
“Conversations continue with Chorley Council, as we recognise that full ownership would unlock significant opportunities for the club — including the installation of a 4G pitch and the potential for expanded seven-day use of the facilities.”
The Magpies – who currently sit in 1tth spot in the table this season – admitted that remaining a competitive in the National League North remains a challenge especially considering they up against a lot of clubs with greater resources.
The statement added: "We operate responsibly in a league where many clubs now compete with inflated budgets backed by significant private funding.
"There has been increased financial backing from the owners, the challenge to remain competitive with other teams remains greater season on season. Our focus remains on sustainability rather than short-term risk.”