Gillingham's accounts revealed up to year ended May 31, 2021; club thank supporters for helping to keep club afloat during Covid-19 lockout

Gillingham’s finances during a season without spectators reveal just how much they were reliant on handouts and cost-cutting to keep them afloat.

The club’s accounts, up to year ending May 31, 2021, reveal a pre-tax profit of £339,137 (up from a £175,000 loss the year before) but during the period they also had an £882,800 EFL advance that is repayable in instalments up until April 2024 on top of £1.28m in government grants.

The club lost a significant amount of income from gate receipts and commercial sales but were grateful to the fans who still purchased season tickets, despite the uncertainty surrounding the 2020/21 season.

In the end the club played all of their home matches behind closed doors.

In a review of the business, a statement said: “The directors took the view that staff reductions and cost cutting on all areas was essential, which linked to government assistance, managed to allow the business to continue whilst further realignment was put in place."

On the field the club managed to finish 10th in League 1, with the statement from Mr Scally adding: “There was a significant loss in matchday income, plus many supporter related issues to deal with, the likes of which were very challenging to the business.

“The directors would like to place on record their sincere thanks to all supporters who assisted the business, by pledging support, donations, time and consideration, and in particular to all season ticket holders and individuals who donated their season ticket monies, and/or matchday ticket monies to the club, which in turn had a huge positive impact on the club in its challenges going forward.

“Without the tremendous support the club may not have survived the negative effects of Covid.”

During the year the