Terry reminded everyone that we are very fortunate to have a fan owned club as they are the ones who vote on the general committee each year and that this group is responsible for appointing trustees to help the ground, fixtures and fittings which we own outright.

SUSTAINABILITY

There was a discussion on how the club can become more sustainable on its own merit and to decrease the onus on our main sponsor Butterfly Care Homes.

FUNDRAISING

It was discussed as to how the club could increase the fledgling supporter’s association and its role within the club, especially on the fundraising front which has largely been the responsibility of an overburdened senior football committee.

Travel and stewarding for next season was also discussed along with the general running of the club and facility.

3G PITCH

Commmercial Manager Gavin Aplin spoke about the possibility of installing a 3G pitch at North Road. David Newman has done a lot of groundwork on this subject which would cost approx. £400,000. The forum was in agreement that the benefits would be huge to our club even though we all preferred grass!

SUMMER GROUNDWORK'S

Terry gave a brief outline on the continuing works being carried out at the club and asked if supporters would be able spare some time in the close season to undertake the many remedial jobs which need doing.

A list will be posted on notice board next to entrance doors as usual.

PLAYING STAFF

Manager James Webster updated everyone on the progress with the current squad negotiations. He told us most of the squad had penned new deals. Aaron Condon, Billy Hunt and George Doyle have all agreed new deals to stay.

James also told us that Ricky Griggs, Josh Gould, Jake Gould and Phil Kelly are all staying with the club.

He said that he still has more players to speak to over the coming days.

Unfortunately leaving the club is Robbie Rees, who couldn't commit due to work and travel, we thank Robbie for his efforts last season.

James also told the audience that there were some backroom staff changes, Angelo Harrop has opted to leave the club, the head coach wants to get back into playing, we wish him all the best for the future.

This meant that Ryan Salter is being promoted to Head Coach and Pip Boyland is taking up a new role as player/coach for the following season.

James mentioned that he has some roles still to fill, he is on the lookout for a new physio after Rob Earle's departure. Also, looking for a new Under 18's Manager for the coming season.

The supporters were very pleased to hear that the majority of last season’s squad had been retained and that things were looking very bright for our first ever season in the Isthmian Premier division.

SPONSORSHIP.

Gavin spoke about the efforts going on behind the scenes to enhance our profile and obtain more sponsors. It was asked that if possible all potential dealings could go through himself and Phil via BRFCCommercial@gmail.com to avoid any crossover.

Q&A.

Skipper Matt Cripps and top scorer Aaron Condon then took to the floor to answer all sorts of interesting and amusing questions from the floor. They both answered the questions really well and we thank them for giving up their Friday night.

The Forum closed at 9.30 pm.

Thank you to everyone who came, we would like to hold another just before the season starts in August.

If you wish to volunteer for the club in any capacity big or small then please do get in contact

Up The R'S

Terry Doherty