Pitching In Isthmiam League South Central Division One side Thatcham Town have appointed a new chairman following an AGM at the club.
The 2018 FA Vase and Uhlsport Hellenic League winners will see Paul Ayres take over from long-serving Eric Bailey in the role with Mr Bailey becoming vice-chairman until the end of the season.
A statement released on Thursday night said: Paul Ayres has been appointed the new Chairman of Thatcham Town Football Club at this evening’s Annual General Meeting.
Mr Ayres, who was serving as the club’s Marketing Manager, stood for the position of Chairman at the AGM and received the requisite approval from the club’s committee and members.
Upon his appointment, the incoming Chairman commented, ”Firstly, I want to thank Eric, Sylvia, Stuart and the committee for giving me the opportunity and backing me to step up into the role of chairman of Thatcham Town Football Club.
“No one can dispute the work and effort that Eric has put into being Chairman for much of the past 16 years. Alongside Sylvia, they have experienced many highs and lows but have the club in a fantastic position and I know I will be able to rely on their support in the future.
“I’m excited to get started, although I do realise this won’t be easy and will be a learning curve for me. My long-term aim is to progress the club further, to improve communications and build on making the club a community club and one that the people of Thatcham can be proud of.
“This will all be made easier with the support and backing of people within the club, the fans and locals. I will always be open to ideas for improvement, or if people want to chat about the club then I will be accessible to listen to them.
“This is not a new beginning but another chapter in the history of Thatcham Town Football Club.”
Eric Bailey will continue in his current role of Vice Chairman before stepping down at the end of the season. Mr Ayres added, “It’s my wish that Eric stays in his role until the summer. This will help me find my feet, and allow me to work out what changes we need to make going forwards.”
On Mr Ayres’ appointment, Mr Bailey said “I feel Paul is the right person for the job. The position needs some young blood and I am very hopeful he can take the club to the next level.”
Mr Ayres’ first game as Chairman comes on Saturday when the Kingfishers host South Park (Reigate) in the Isthmian League South Central Division at the Stacatruc Stadium.
