I'm going to Romford and building a new stadium and community building there now, says former Billericay Town owner Glenn Tamplin

ROMFORD have announced that local businessman Glenn Tamplin has agreed to join the club in a move that will secure both the homeless clubs short-term and long-term future.

Romford chairman Steve Gardener said in a statement: “The club have been struggling for some time now due to lack of finances and resources and our aim of getting back to Romford in our own ground is a must.

“Myself and Colin Ewenson are not in a position to drive the club forward and deliver the new ground.

“We have been looking for an investor to come on board and with his previous experience and success we are looking forward to being able to move the club forward.”

Tamplin, who has recently left National League South side Billericay Town after turning around their fortunes during the three years at the helm as owner, said on Twitter: “I would personally like to thank the Billericay fans that supported me and helped me build the club and the community.

“I am truly gutted I had to move on but I know I’ve put over three million pounds in and stabilised the club with another £150,000 before I left.  Good luck BTFC always love you.

“I would have taken Billericay to the Football League. It’s a shame, they probably have lost the glory days now.”

When asked why he left the New Lodge club, Tamplin replied: “Because some of my own fans abused my (16-year-old) son (while playing for the club), which he didn’t deserve and it really cut me deep.

“It was only a few minority, the majority of fans are amazing but I just watched any son breakdown and had to be loyal to him."

He added: “I’m going to Romford and building a new stadium and community building there now.”

Romford are currently bottom of the Isthmian League North Division table with five points from 11 games.

Romford are without a win in five games and welcome fourth-placed Coggeshall Town to Brentwood Town’s Doddington Road ground on Saturday. 16 November 2019 (15:00).

The club have not played at their own stadium since reforming back in 1992 and have played at various clubs since then, including Hornchurch, Ford United, Collier Row, Barkingside, Aveley, Thurrock and East Thurrock United.

Tamplin's first act was to dismiss long-serving manager Paul Martin, who has been at the club for 15 years', his assistant manager Mark Lord and their entire backroom team.

"It was felt with the new investment coming into the club it was the right time for a fresh start," added the chairman.

"It would be difficult to put in words the impact and legacy that Magic and Lordy have had on the club and were well-respected and liked not just in our club but across the non-league world.

"A new management team of four people have been put in place who have access to players at higher levels, including League Two.  Some of those players will be available against Coggeshall on Saturday.

"I am sure supporters will have their own words of thanks but on a personal note I have enjoyed working with them both, over their long tenure at the club."

Visit Romford’s website: www.romfordfc.com