Firstly, I hope everybody is keeping well and staying safe at this difficult time. As the lockdown gradually eases, we can only wish that we soon return to a more normal existence and the chance to do things like play football!
Like many local organisations and businesses, the football club has been very much affected by the pandemic. With no income coming into the club, we are fortunate that we do have back up funds to keep us going. So, we wait and hope that we are in a position to play football again in the Autumn and we can start the slow return back to normal.
Brinkley Update
The lockdown has meant that we have had to postpone much of the development at Brinkley for a season. However, this week we were granted planning permission by Newark & Sherwood Council, which means that we can now plan ahead and start to deliver what we have promised, albeit a bit later than planned!
The club is truly grateful for the time and effort given by Joseph Kemish Architects. Joe has been a true friend to the club. His images of the proposed clubhouse and main pitch can be seen below.
Memorial Ground
Away from Brinkley, we also hope to make some improvements at the Memorial Ground, which we would like to have in place before the beginning of the next football season, whenever that starts. As well as spending some money on essential maintenance of the main pitch, we will be upgrading the windows and doors as part of a process of smartening the place up. We want to encourage people to start using the facilities more, for both football and community-related activities.
Presentation Day
Under normal circumstances, last weekend would have been our Junior Presentation Day. Despite the event being cancelled, some teams will still be issuing the usual end-of-season medals and trophies and managers will be in touch about this. As a club, we hope that we might be able to arrange a day in September when we can all come together and celebrate a return to football. Obviously, we cannot be certain that this will happen, in current circumstances, but we would like to do something. Hopefully we are not being too optimistic!
NHS Appeal
Thank you to everybody who donated to our recent appeal for Nottingham NHS hospitals. In just one weekend, club members and friends donated nearly £2,500, which is amazing! As a club, we will continue to look at ways in which we can positively contribute to our local community, for the benefit of all.
Senior Teams
Finally, I am pleased to report that our adult first teams have both had a great season, despite the early end to games. We are lucky to have two inspirational first team managers in Jonny Upton (Mens) and Andy Mollet (Ladies). Their end of season messages can be found on the club website:
If anybody has any further questions as to what is happening at the club, myself or any of the executive committee will be pleased to respond.
Take care everybody. We really hope to see you all again very soon.
John Cunningham
Chairman, Southwell City FC
