THE ARGYLE HOSTEL

When the Trust and PAYD were formed way back in 1996, it soon became apparent that not only would it be necessary to have a base for operations, but a hostel/educational unit would be essential if progress was to be made.

After much hard work and several inspections of available properties, the Argyle Hotel was visited and in view of its past connections with Plymouth Argyle, it soon became the favourite choice.

The newly formed Trust and PAYD had no chance of purchasing the double properties at 3 and 5 Sutherland Road, but we were determined to obtain the Hotel and this was achieved with the invaluable help of the William Sutton Trust, who purchased the premises and leased it to our Trust for 3 years, rent free, with our Trust repairing and updating the property in return.

The Supporters Trust then had the opportunity of purchasing the double property on favourable terms at the end of the 3 year term. This purchase and mortgage was negotiated and completed by Mr. Paul Stapleton.

As soon as the Trust took possession of the hotel, the first job was to convert it to a Hostel because of all the regulations which govern the hotel industry. Then all Plymouth Argyle YTS boys moved in, rather than being in lodgings with various families spread around the city. They were all housed together in twin bedded rooms which was one of Neil Warnock’s aims to build team spirit.

Each year since 1997, not only have the apprentices from out of town been accommodated in the hostel, but on many weekends the youth players from the Centres of Excellence and/or the Coaching Centres stay at the Hostel so that they are together for matches

Today “The Argyle” is the focal point of all Trust activities and has been a major reason for the improvement in all youth team work and without a doubt has been instrumental in persuading boys to join Plymouth Argyle and PAYD.

Sadly the property at No. 5 had to be sold to safeguard the financial position of the trust after a very expensive time, but the work continues in the remaining property at No. 3 and currently there are 12 football scholars residing there and enjoy a friendly and family like atmosphere.

When youth players finish their 3 year Scholarships and become young professionals like Luke McCormick and Paul Connolly did recently, they often ask if they can remain at The Argyle as they find the cost of renting or lodging in Plymouth very expensive compared to the subsidised rates at the Hostel.

The vast majority of the income of the Hostel is made up of donations from one or the other of the supporters groups, all of whom have made large and regular donations to the Trust over the years. Other income is derived from the rents charged and the housing benefits received. Nevertheless, every year many of the PAYD scholars are accommodated free of charge in line with our charitable status.

Ken Jones

Trustee

October 2005