Fleet seek further investment to become self sufficent

Gravesend & Northfleet director Mr Brian Kilcullen has revealed the club are trying to become self sufficient.

The Fleet, who went into yesterday’s game with Kidderminster Harriers in third place in the Nationwide Conference table, dropped to sixth following their 3-1 defeat at Stonebridge Road.

Writing in his programme notes, Mr Kilcullen who stood down as chairman to be replaced by Mr Jason Botley during the close season, said: “I explained (in September) that we are trying to get away from a situation where we are reliant on individuals covering any financial deficits.

“To give an understanding of why this is so important, in the last year directors have provided funding of £265,000.

“In addition to this, we attracted an investment of £250,000 to enable us to follow our business plan towards self sufficiency on the financial side.

“We are still seeking further investment with a target of another £500,000 and to help in this we will be offering shareholders the right to buy more shares in the club.

“To raise this amount is a difficult target but one we must achieve if we are to continue to improve as a club.”

With the Fleet turning professional during the close season, Mr Kilcullen urges fans to use the club’s two social facilities - at Fleet Leisure (the club’s training ground) and at Stonebridge Road.

“The turnaround of Fleet Leisure continues to be a difficult task” he said. “However, we continue to make progress and overall things are moving in the right direction.

“This is an area where you as fans can help your football club in a practical way. By becoming a member and using the facilities such as the function hall, you not only get the benefit of using nice facilities but are effectively putting money in the club’s coffers at the same time.”

Meanwhile, the Fleet have announced that Mr Roly Edwards has stepped down from the board of directors.

His decision is due to changes within his personal circumstances resulting in the need to relinquish the operational responsibilities that he has undertaken as a director.

Mr Edwards will, however, continue in his role as secretary of the football club.

Chairman Mr Jason Botley added: “I wish to sincerely thank Roly for the dedication and support he has given to the board during his eight years as a director.

“On a personal level I also wish to thank him for the help, assistance and advice he has given me during the time we have worked together.

“He has been instrumental in helping grow the club during the last six years and will be missed.

“However, I am delighted that Roly will continue as club secretary and I look forward to continuing to work with him in that capacity.

Visit Gravesend & Northfleet's website:  www.gnfc.co.uk