I'm here for the long run, says Reds' chief
Monday 25 May 2009
by Chris Barney, Llanelli Star

NITIN Parekh has rubbished fears he will walk away from Llanelli, stressing: “I’m here for the long run”.
The Reds chairman has turned the club’s fortunes around since buying it almost four years ago, with unprecedented success on the pitch and a revamped club off it.
His financial backing has helped secure a first Welsh Premier League title and League Cup winners’ trophy, along with a season-long stint as a full-time club.
Champions League football also arrived in the town for the first time, while the Reds’ social club has also had a £150,000 facelift.
But following last season’s campaign which saw the club starved of major silverware, some supporters fear Parekh’s passion and backing will be heading out of Stebonheath Park.
Parekh, however, has quickly quashed those fears.
“I just smile when I hear that. I am aware that some people have mentioned it and the club’s future has been questioned,” said Parekh.
“The club is never about one man — it is about the club as a whole.
“The ownership of this club is safe and solid.
“Andy Legg wouldn’t have become manager if that wasn’t the case. But I am for the long run.”
Former Wales international Legg has a big test ahead of him as he looks to snatch the title back off Rhyl.
After naming ex-Wales defender Steve Jenkins as his assistant, Legg has seen a large number of last season’s squad sign extended deals along with new signings Lee Jarman and Craig Moses.
But Parekh confirmed that Legg would be working on a smaller budget this season as the Reds continue to build towards the club being self-funded.
“There is a smaller budget, but we can’t allow that to bring any negativity to the club,” said Parekh, who marks his fourth year at Llanelli next month.
“The economic climate is not the easiest at present, but we have budgeted for that.
“It is tough for a football club like ours to compete in a strong rugby town.
“We are thankful to our loyal supporters, but we need to attract more. I think if some people just came to watch a few games, they would be hooked.”