Paul Scally says allegations against him 'bizarre'

Paul Scally took control of Gillingham Football Club in 1995

Former Gillingham Football Club chairman Paul Scally has spoken out about allegations he says have been made against him, describing them as "bizarre".

Mr Scally gained control of the club in 1995 for a nominal fee of £1, but also took on its £1.5m debt.

He sold his controlling stake to Florida-based property magnate Brad Galinson in December 2022, continuing as a non-executive director, but was voted off the club's board in October amid a dispute with the new owner.

Gillingham FC declined to comment but previously said investigations were ongoing.

In an interview with BBC South East, Mr Scally said: "Some of the allegations are just bizarre.

"They're talking about staff being uncomfortable when I'm in the building and intimidated.

"It's just nonsense, I don't know a single member of staff that would ever say that in 30 years.

"I've never had a complaint against me in 30 years. There's supposed to be an investigation, but I don't know anything about the investigation.

"It's grossly wrong, grossly unfair, it's grossly misleading."

Mr Scally sold his majority stake to Brad Galinson in 2022

At the time of October's board meeting the club said investigations were ongoing.

Mr Scally said: "If this matter goes to court I think fans and the public will understand what I've been going through and how badly I've been treated.

"I'm just missing football. I miss the club, I miss the football, I miss the people."

He also said he hoped "first and foremost the club succeeds and goes forward".

"I hope the new owners, with their wealth, do support and stay with the club and commit more funds to it," said Mr Scally.

"The stadium in '95 was nigh on derelict, it wasn't fit for purpose.

"It's out of my hands now. I still own 30% of the club but that means nothing now, that's irrelevant."