CHAIRMAN’S UPDATE

In these challenging and ever changing times I would like to keep you updated on the health of the club, which includes all associated with the club and steps that we are taking for when the season (hopefully) restarts.

From a financial point of view the club is in a good position. The directors decision, where possible, to stay within our means has proved it was the right decision.  Currently the club is happy to report that we have no debts apart from the monthly utility bills as and when they become due. Greene King that supply our keg beer have informed all their customers that they will replace all unopened kegs free of charge which is a fantastic gesture by them.

The club and clubhouse has been ‘mothballed’ and will remain so until lock down has ended and we have been given the green light to open.  There are lots of discussions taking place but my own personal view is that I can’t see non league football restarting until at least September/ October if not later – hopefully I will be proved wrong.

Because of the early shutdown of the League, Gareth and Dave managed to bring forward the pitch renovations.  I’m happy to report that the pitch has been verti drained, reseeded and 80 tons of horticultural sand was spread onto the pitch 2 weeks ago. I’ll like to think our ground staff planned the timing of the works to coincide with the recent heavy and constant rainfall. Photos & video to follow.

Fans have been asking how they can help out at the club, as soon as the social distancing rule is relaxed I will be asking for volunteers to come down to WWR to assist on works parties as the upkeep of our ground and facilities still needs to be done.

Our academy is still operating, the scholars have been working at home on their education part of the course with Lloyd and Bully utilising the latest in social media to keep an eye on things and continue marking the papers.

Our school and community program was suspended in line with school closures and will remain so until they resume.

You may have seen that due to the growth of our Ladies football, Darren has now set up their own twitter account, so please follow them to keep up with their news. @IvesTownLadies

Our colts teams leagues finished early which was unfortunate as we were in a number of cup finals, we will have to wait until next season to go again.

The First team will hold a series of ‘Q&A sessions’ on twitter over the next couple of weeks and it kicks off with the club Captain Robbie Parker this Friday evening from 6pm onwards, if you want to ask Robbie anything now’s your opportunity.

I am aware that Ricky and Bully are already planning for next season and have already started looking at player selection for when the season starts.

You may have read of the clubs ambitions to install a 3G pitch and redevelop the club house at WWR. Unfortunately these plans may take longer than originally anticipated due to the virus and lock down, however we are still working behind the scenes so we are ready to continue when the situation improves.

If like me you are sick of gardening and decorating be grateful that you and your families are safe and healthy and remain so.

Keep safe every body.

Regards
Gary Clarke