We have now come to the end of a season which will live long in the memory of everyone connected with the Club.
Whilst we didn’t achieve our ultimate objective of promotion the season was still a big success. We came 2nd in the League, got to the final of the Northern League Challenge Cup and who can forget our fantastic victory over Whickham in the final of the Durham County Challenge Cup at the Stadium of Light in front of an unbelievable support who sang from the first to the last minute and who were great ambassadors for our Club. Personally for me there were four generations of my family in attendance to witness this occasion, which was really special.
Chris, I know was devastated that we couldn’t overcome Blyth Town to the get to the Play Off Final and whilst no excuse, we were missing key players for that game which ultimately contributed to the result.
We go again though, Chris and the management team are fully committed to going one place better next season and are now actively looking to reinforce an extremely talented squad of players with one or two additions. The majority of the players are committed to the Club for next season which is great news as this squad of players have been fantastic both on the pitch and off it. There is a real togetherness about them, they are resilient and are committed to getting this great Club to the next level.
I have to say a massive thank you to our supporters both new and old. They have contributed greatly to the atmosphere around the ground and I don’t think I’ve seen anything like it as this level or indeed the level above. I will never forget your support both at the Stadium of Light and after the final whistle went in our Play Off defeat where you stayed and applauded the management team and the players. Next season hopefully we will all experience some more special moments together. Also a big thank you to my fellow Directors and the loyal base of volunteers. Your support both financial and in kind is greatly appreciated.
A big mention to our loyal Partners, sponsors and Executive Members.Without your support the Club simply wouldn’t be able to compete at the right end of the table. I hope you can see that you are more than just sponsors, and that in return we are facilitating business opportunities, through our Business Breakfasts and and you are helping us deliver within the community where our social impact continues to grow. We look forward to partnering with you next season and to keep the momentum that we built going.
We have now reached the end of an era with our last competitive game being played on grass at our home. The headline news from this season is undoubtedly the Club securing funding from the Football Foundation for a FIFA Quality 3G pitch. This investment of over £1m, secured with match funding from the Club and our partners Durham County Council, will simply transform the Club and offer much wider benefits to the local community. Work starts in early June 25 with the target for completion being late September 25.
I can’t think of a better way to close this message than to invite you all to our end of season festival the Shildon Shindig on Saturday 17th May 25. It gives us all the opportunity to come together to celebrate our Club and the wider community.
I hope to see you there and enjoy your summer everyone.