CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME Stuart Bonser gives his latest thoughts ahead of today's match

STUART BONSER CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME

Good afternoon and welcome to the NFU Sports Ground for today’s game against Cradley Town FC and may I extend a warm welcome to the players, officials and supporters of Cradley Town and hope we all enjoy a good game.

The turnout for our home game against Stapenhill was befitting for the occasion to pay our respects to Eric Avins and great to see so many who came which acknowledged how well thought of Eric was in the Community and the football world. It was also pleasing to see Robbie Avins come along for he game and as the president said during his speech before the game, we are all here for you Robbie. The funeral arrangements are confirmed for this Tuesday at Bretby Crematorium - 10.30am and I am sure the turnout will again demonstrate how well Eric was liked amongst his family and friends.

It was pleasing to progress in the FA vase last Saturday against a higher opposition and the next round sees us play host to Romulus next Saturday so please come along and show your support and push the players on to the next round we hope.

Last Tuesdays game against Atherstone was one of the best games I think I’ve seen is play of late and against a really good opposition who are top of the table. This is testament to Andy and his staff for the way our players performed and credit to all the players for the performance they gave and let’s hope that they take great confidence that they can perform like that and take it into each game. Our junior and youth teams started their league campaigns last weekend and this followed the start of our first ever girls teams the weekend before. All in all we have added 8 new teams to the growing number of teams at the club and it’s a pleasure to see so many players now wearing the badge and the most teams we have had since coming down to the NFU, a significant achievement and my thanks goes to all the coaches for their continued support for the teams.

All that remains is to wish the players well today and hope you all enjoy the game.

Ps – if you are visiting the ground by car please DO NOT OBSTRUCT the junction to Cambrian Way by parking on the grass/path verge as this is both dangerous and you could get a fixed penalty notice from the Council and or Police.

Find us at 84 Smisby Road, Ashby De La Zouch. LE65 2JL 84 Smisby Road, Ashby De La Zouch. LE65 2JL. Customer parking at rear of building