Hythe Town appoint local entrepreneur/hotelier as their new chairman as outgoing chairman Matthew Smith accepts results and performances on the pitch were not what anyone wanted

HYTHE TOWN have appointed a local entrepreneur/hotelier as their new chairman – replacing Matthew Smith and CEO Gary Johnson.

The Austrian Vishal Nanda (known as Andy), 43, has taken the helm at Reachfields Stadium following lengthy negotiations with the current board of directors.

The Cannons are on course of suffering its first ever relegation in its history later this month, sitting in the bottom three in the Isthmian League South East Division table.

Nick Davis’ side have picked up 22 points (six wins, four draws and 27 defeats) this season and are 12 points adrift of safety with five games remaining - despite having a playing budget more suited for challenging for promotion via the play-offs.

“This season has been one of massive ups and downs and this investment by Andy is one much needed for the football club and Reachfields as a community asset,” said Mr Smith in a statement.

“As a local man (Lyminge) I know how much Andy wants the club to be successful and if half of his plans come to fruition, I know just like me all the supporters will be very excited.

“I came into the club in April 2024 and have tried to have a positive impact on the place and whilst on the field results have not gone the way we all wanted, I think everyone has to agree off the field the football club is now unrecognisable from where it was.

“From a refurbished clubhouse and stadium, pitch upgrade works, through to an operating business that clearly details the mismanagement of club funds previously that has seen an increase in matchday takings this season despite less crowds, less games and no FA Trophy run.

“Both Gary (Johnson) and I have performed open heart surgery on a football club whilst keeping it trading, something we are both immensely proud of.

“I am now, however, cosigned to being part of the rich history of Hythe Town FC and played my part along with the current board in this planned investment and wish Andy and his team all the best for the remainder of the season and into next season.”

Mr Smith, the former Sheppey United chairman, added on the clubs website: “Am I disappointed to leave a project I feel that is half completed? Yes, of course but I am not immune to criticism and need to accept that whilst I have put together the blue print and started the process that should see Hythe Town FC grow from solid foundations our impending relegation is ultimately down to me.

“Do I accept results and performances on the pitch were not what anyone wanted, yes of course, but unfortunately unlike others I believe in working with my manager, not throwing him under the bus when players let them down. A smooth see never created a skilled sailor!

“To those that I have worked closely with at Reachfields, volunteers, the entire management team, the board and the supporters who did welcome me and my approach, thank you. Exciting times ahead for everyone in Hythe.”

Reflecting on his departure, Mr Johnson, who has previously had a similar role at Whitstable Town over the years, said in a statement, “It’s with mixed emotions I depart Reachfields, excitement at the potential the new investors bring, but sadness in that I along with others have not achieved the desired success on the field this season.

“I can, however, be content that I enabled the club to continue when at it’s lowest ebb (on joining the board) and rebuilt the board of directors which culminated with the appointment of Matt who succeeded me as chairman.

“I have made many new friends but cannot deny the criticism levied by a few though social media channels has hurt not only myself but significantly other board members. Be careful what you wish for!

“If the promises made by the new regime come to fruition it will be exciting times ahead for all at Hythe and I will continue to support from afar knowing that in part my efforts have contributed to the bigger picture and future success.  I leave Hythe at an exciting time.”

Mr Nanda explained his reasons behind his investment in the club and is keeping faith with Davis for next season’s Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division, which is one of the toughest ninth-tier divisions in the entire country to get out of, especially at the first attempt for big-budget clubs.

“I have been looking to buy a local non-league football club for a long time now and following discussions with Gary and Matt, I could clearly see the potential that needed to be unlocked here at Reachfields.

“I will be working towards obtaining planning permission in the coming months to lay a much-needed 3G playing surface at Reachfields that will enable every youth team to play and train at our home.

“I will be looking at every facet of the football club and how I can improve it both functionally and for the good of the local community.

“I know Matt has modernised the club as a business but I believe there is so much more left to do to give us a home we as the local community are immensely proud of.

“The team on the pitch have not been successful as every supporter has seen but having met Nick (Davis) and spoke with him at length I am confident that once we build on the current links with the new elite youth structure, next season will be one filled with success and Nick and my team will have the players playing an attractive brand of football that all supporters will enjoy here at Reachfields.

“Winning games of football is what keeps supporters coming to watch games and just like Matt before me I am committed to providing our manager with a healthy budget in whichever League we find ourselves next season.

“I would like to thank Gary and Matt along with the current board who have made the transfer as seamless as possible and I like all of you hope they can be around the club next season and beyond.”

A club statement added: “Everyone at the football club is delighted to welcome Andy onboard and as supporters he has advised that during the end-of-season awards he will elaborate more on his plans for the football club and the team he will be bringing in with him.”

The Cannons host fifth-placed Merstham on Saturday (15:00).

Visit Hythe Town’s website: www.hythetownfc.co.uk