We continue to suffer from a lack of clarity and further information in relation to the return of senior football at our level, says Bromley chairman Robin Stanton-Gleaves

BROMLEY chairman Robin Stanton-Gleaves wants to know when the 2020-21 National League season will kick-off.

 

Neil Smith’s side were in thirteenth-place in the Vanarama National League table at the time that the campaign was called to a halt due to the coronavirus health pandemic.

Since reaching the top-flight of non-league football in 2015, Bromley have ridden on a crest of a wave but the health crisis has hit every club hard.

“We are all missing being at Hayes Lane and getting behind the team but we remain hopeful that a return is on the horizon,” Stanton-Gleaves told the club website.

“Back in March, when all of our income streams ceased overnight, myself and the board committed to making all the necessary decisions moving through this pandemic in the best interests of the club, so that we can come out the other side of this alive and ready to go again.  Hopefully, that’s not too far away now.

“Unfortunately for all involved, we continue to suffer from a lack of clarity and further information in relation to the return of senior football at our level and under what capacity restrictions, although a mid-September return has been suggested.

“As I’m sure supporters will understand, this makes it incredibly difficult for the club to confirm admission prices and season ticket arrangements for the coming season.

“This also adds extra difficulties for Neil (Smith) and the building of his squad for the 2020-21 season.  However, I want to reassure you that we are working hard to make progress on both fronts and I know Neil is keen to prove a general squad update very soon.

“Last season, we hit another club record in terms of season ticket sales (around 600), which is outstanding.

“Unfortunately, for those of you who did commit to us, you will have missed the final four home matches due to the season being cut short.

“You have all been extremely patient with how we are going to resolve this and numerous supporters have contacted the club and very kindly offered to donate their refund back to us.

“I’d like to stress to all of you that this is by far the easiest and best way that you can support us at the moment and where possible this is where we’d like to encourage you do so if you can.

“The cost of refunding every single season ticket holder is significant, which is why we’re asking for your support.

“However, as always, the club wish to do the right thing by our supporters and for those of you who would like your refunds, we will of course honour your request and process them as quickly as possible.

“During the next few weeks, we will be contacting all season ticket holders to find out which of the above options they would like to take. 

“In summary, the refund amounts for each season ticket type have been calculated based on the price at the time of purchase.

“If you choose not to opt for a refund, this amount will be donated back to the club and will be greatly appreciated.  We will calculate a running summary of how much supporters have donated back to the club and communicate this regularly.

“It has no doubt been a difficult period for the club, perhaps our most challenging in recent times but I want to thank each and every one of our supporters and staff for their continued support and commitment.”

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