Stuart Fitchie steps down as Herne Bay chairman

STUART FITCHIE has stepped down as the chairman of Herne Bay today.

The Winch’s Field club are playing at their highest level of football in their history this season, the eighth-tier of English football but life in the Isthmian League Premier Division has been tough as they go into their final five games of the season with a chance of staying up.

The club are in the bottom four in the table with 31 points from 37 games, just two points above them in the league table, Kingstonian.

But the club have announced the departure of its chairman and not disclosed details on whom will take over or the club’s future.

“A bittersweet moment for me as I announce to you that as of today I am stepping down as chairman of Herne Bay FC,” said Mr Fitchie in a statement.

“Something that has been playing on my mind for a while and an action I wanted to propose after the season had ended but a series of recent events including a new role which will need my total commitment, has called for me to announce this today.

“Nearly four years in the role; something I have totally embraced and given my all. 

“Finding our feet along the way, we took over a club that was completely on its knees to a club with some unbelievable facilities and the undeniable scope for real growth. Something I am really gutted I will not be around to help steer and play out.

“Slowly but surely, we have made some absurd transformations and looking at the club now, it is something I am incredibly proud off.

“It has been one hell of a ride and one I will remember forever.

“The great news this week is we have been recommended to pass the ground grading, meaning the club can continue on the trajectory it has been on.

“I want to thank the Herne Bay supporters for their respect and backing during my tenure.

“I explained in many meetings that I thought the club was too big for the league we were in and I wanted to achieve promotion and to do it within our first competitive season was an experience every football fan wants to go through and it was my greatest sporting achievement.

“Lastly, but by no means least, I want to thank my friends and family.  This role I completely dedicated myself to and has no doubt taken over my life.  My friends and network have supported me both physically and financially through this and my family emotionally.

“My family have endured being second to the football club on so many occasions, thank you for sticking with me.  I have had fantastic support and I really cannot thank them enough.

“Time to focus on my career, my family and me and see where the journey takes us.  Thank you for the fond memories.”

Kevin Watson’s side travel to ninth-placed side Hastings United on Saturday.

Visit Herne Bay’s website: www.hernebayfootballclub.co.uk