LOFT has welcomed last week's announcement by Orient chairman Barry Hearn, that the club will not seek to move away from the London Borough of Waltham Forest if a move to the Olympic Stadium does not materialise.

A move away from the club's east London roots never made any sense, financially or otherwise, and would likely have alienated a significant proportion of the club's existing fanbase. While the club's long-term future in the shadow of the Olympic Stadium remains unclear, Hearn's willingness to make a stand in east London is heartening.

While we continue to support the legal fight to ensure that the Olympic legacy does not cause harm to Leyton Orient, we cannot at this time support a move to the Olympic Stadium until supporters have been properly consulted and the implications (both financial and matchday experience) have been made clear.

The news of free season ticket offers to 14-18 year-olds and full-time students under 21 is very much welcomed. We have been urging the club for a number of years to consider more innovative ticketing promotions than has previously been seen, and this offer fits that bill exactly. Likewise, the recruitment incentives offered to new and current season ticket holders will hopefully lead to an upturn in the club’s support.

Now more than ever is the time for existing fans and the local community to Stand Up for the Orient, as all fans can play their part in making these schemes a success.

LOFT meanwhile continues to represent its members in discussions with the club, attending a recent meeting with club Chief Executive Matt Porter with representatives of the Supporters Club, plus the Leyton Orientear and Pandamonium fanzines. Discussions covered such areas as the security arrangements at recent games, safe standing areas and of course the Olympic Stadium. It was agreed to hold such meetings every two to three months to continue to improve communications between club and fans.