Folkestone Invicta: Discussions are taking place regarding possible investment into the club - while these discussions are ongoing the club continues to run as normal

FOLKESTONE INVICTA can confirm that discussions are taking place regarding possible investment into the club after announcing that chairman Jim Pellatt has stepped down from the role.

“After 17 years with the club, I have decided it is time for me to retire completely, therefore I am stepping down with immediate effect, as chairman, resigning as a director and retiring,” said the 77-year-old in a statement.

“The unremitting pressures of the last few months have taken a big toll on my health and personal well-being and at my age it is too much.

“I have made many friends around the club and I wish to thank them personally for their friendship and support and of course with the club all the best for the future.”

A club statement from the Isthmian League Premier Division club said: “The club would like to thank Jim Pellatt for his years of voluntary hard work and support.

“We hope that Jim has a speedy recovery and hopefully we will see him at the club in the near future. 

“Jim has been totally committed to the stability and growth of our club and has been a stalwart of Folkestone Invicta for many years.

"We are fortunate to be supported by our new sponsors and other interested local organisations to continue to move the club forward and assist in all aspects of business administration.

“Folkestone Invicta can confirm that discussions are taking place regarding possible investment into the club. While these discussions are ongoing the club continues to run as normal, with undivided attention on matters on and off the field.  The club will keep supporters informed as the talks progress.”

Joint-managers Micheal Everitt and Roland Edge are working hard to attract new signings to strengthen the squad and build a strong team, that finished in 12^th place in the seventh-tier of English football last season.

The pair have retained striker Ibrahim Olutade – who scored 17 goals in 52 appearances last season – and midfielder Scott Heard and have signed a couple of players from their league rivals this week.

Right-back Crossley Lema has arrived from Carshalton Athletic, while midfielder Kane Penn arrives from Hastings United.

“Kane is a talented young footballer with great energy and tenacity,” said Edge.

“He is comfortable anywhere in the midfield or defence and showed this on numerous occasions last season.

“Both Mev and I are very pleased to get the deal done and can’t wait to work with him.”

Visit Folkestone Invicta’s website:  www.folkestoneinvictafc.co.uk