FA Representative fails to turn up at League meeting

Friday 15th May 2009

KENT LEAGUE chairman Denise Richmond has declared Wednesday night's meeting of clubs to discuss a possible Step 6 league a resounding success, writes Stephen McCartney.

More than 30 clubs and several Leagues were represented at the meeting at Lordswood FC and agreed that the Bulmers Cider Kent League and Vandanel Kent County League, along with the KCFA, should progress the proposal further.

One man that didn't appear was the FA's Leagues Manager Mike Appleby, who was delayed at Soho Square on England C international business.

But that did not dampen the enthusiasm of the clubs, who exchanged positive views on the possible introduction of the new league.

Mrs Richmond, speaking to www.kentishfootball.co.uk said,: "The objective of the meeting was to find out whether there was the level of interest and appetite for Step 6 in the region - and the answer to that was undoubtedly yes."

Over 30 questionnaires were taken away from the meeting for clubs to return to the County office within 14 days. Once the information has been collated, a further meeting will be held to work out the next steps.

The plan remains in place, however, to have the new league starting for season 2010/11.

Mrs Richmond added: "This is real progress. We've met with the County League, and subsequently the KCFA and FA, to try and progress a Step 6 league for over 18 months.

"Hopefully this will really benefit football in our region and we're delighted with the response at the meeting."

Clubs who were unable to attend the meeting can still register their interest to the KCFA and complete the questionnaire.

Visit the Bulmers Cider Kent League website: www.kentleague.com

Visit the Vandanel Kent County League website: www.kentcountyfootballleague.co.uk