It was my hope in becoming Chairman that perhaps the changing of the Reserves from the Essex Senior League to Ryman 21’s to help progress the future of the club in respects of its Youth progression as well as to review the ability to have Ladies football which would help the club become more socially and community aware was the on-field target to work hard for!

To say I’m very happy that both have occurred already this season is an understatement, the U21’s will in time provide a level of Youth player to help supplement the 1st team whereas the Ladies will provide the club with a more rounded look of itself internally as well as the surrounding community expectations.

The 1st team management have again proved with determination that even on the tight budget we find ourselves having to operate under to be more then capable of producing admirable performances which proved many people wrong by finishing mid-table.

In respects of the Reserves an appreciable thank you to Steve Southgate who stepped in to become the teams 3rd manager in the season and produced some excellent performances. And with the continued hard work shown by the Alliance Youth section gives a solid foundation to work from.

Our facilities are continuing to impress all visiting teams/ league officials from far and wide and that is down to the sheer hard work of the many on the committee, with a special thanks to Roger Sampson/ Brian Everitt and Graham Pavitt on the pitch with Jim Laird around the Stadium and Derek Gay with maintenance.

As with most Committees you always look forward to new people joining and a thank you for the time you will give, but also to those who step down and this season see’s the long serving Christine Sampson (Social) and Roger from Head Grounds man take a very well earned rest so a special thank you to two Rovers stalwarts which has helped make the club which it is today.

Next season we need to keep working hard on the ground and clubhouse but also show support for all the teams representing the club as well as involving ourselves more in the Village Community.

And I thank you for your continued support.