As a lifelong Bees fan, Brian first started working in a voluntary capacity on the stadium project in 2002 and subsequently became Chairman of the supporters’ trust, Bees United. In 2005/6 Brian, alongside Chris Gammon, led Bees United’s takeover of Brentford FC, helping raise the £6m required to refinance the Club.
Brian was instrumental in the appointment of Greg Dyke as Chairman of the Club and the introduction of initial funding from Matthew Benham, with a seat on the BFC board for Matthew’s representative. Brian served as DeputyChairman on the Brentford FC board until taking up a paid position on the Brentford Community Stadium project in 2008 as part of a deal with Barratt Homes to secure the land at Lionel Road.
Brian has also been a Trustee of the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust charity since it became an independent trust in 2005, a voluntary position that he intends to continue.
Matthew Benham, owner of BFC, said: “On behalf of everyone at the Club and all our fans I would like to thank Brian for his commitment, dedication and the enormous contribution he has made to the Club and to the Brentford Community Stadium project over so many years. We would not be in the position we are in today if it was not for the work, some five years of it on a voluntary basis, that Brian – together with Chris – put in. We owe Brian a huge debt of gratitude for his efforts. In recognition, the Club has offered and Brian has accepted a position as a Brentford FC Associate Director."
Brian Burgess added: “I am immensely proud of the role I have been able to play in the history of Brentford FC, the supporters’ trust Bees United and the Brentford Community Stadium project. It has been a great privilege to work with so many wonderful and dedicated people, particularly among the supporters. Now that the Club is finally in a position to deliver a new stadium and preparatory work has started on site I feel the time is right to step down and look forward to the opening game at Lionel Road. The Brentford FC Community Sports Trust is also very close to my heart and I look forward to continuing to support their inspirational work, whilst liaising closely with the Club.”