Football

KEVIN DONOVAN has thanked Bridport Football Club for keeping faith with him and listening to his ideas on it's future.

The news comes after the club held a board meeting following their relegation from the Screwfix Direct Western League Premier Division.

During the meeting Donovan presented his views on the way forward which included an ongoing commitment to youth football in the area.

Having offered his resignation on the last day of the season Donovan was confirmed as manager at the meeting and has wasted no time on next years preparations.

The Bees boss has already spoken to his players and can report that the majority will return to St Mary's Field in August.

He said: "I am very grateful to Barry Williams and his committee for giving me the opportunity to explain before all interested parties my own ideas for the future of the club.

"I was very pleased that there was a general consensus as to the way forward and that the committee was happy to appoint me as manager."

Donovan's suggestions include the formation of a link between the clubs current under-16s and the senior teams and the continued improvement of all facilities at the club's home.

The chief said: "The running of an under-18 side to provide a link between the Bridport youth set up and the senior club is very important to me.

"Hopefully this will allow us to provide more of our own players and increase local interest.

"The future development of the playing facilities and clubhouse is very important for the local youth structure and for other local clubs besides ourselves."

Donovan said that many other matters were discussed and among them was the recognition of one of the club's longest serving players.

"A testimonial for Martin Peters and a unified end of season get together for all those associated with the club are both important to me," he said.

This season the club presented its awards after the final game against Hallen and the former Bridport striker would rather have a separate bash to mark the close of the season.

Looking ahead to next season Donovan has already begun to look at his squad, inviting last year's players back at the end of the summer.

He said: "Although it is early days I have spoken to around 25 players regarding next season and have had a very positive response.

"There will be a few new faces but I think everyone at the club now realises how important the under-18 team is to the club's future and manager Rod Hayter will be getting as much help from the senior members as we can give."

THE BEES may still find themselves playing in the Screwfix Direct Premier League next season.

The Western League board are currently pondering how to accommodate an extra three clubs in the league set-up.

Bradford Town, Longwell Green and Portishead will all start in the First Division, pending ground accreditation, leaving an imbalance between the two divisions.

To even this up the board may decide to only relegate Clyst Rovers, saving Bridport, or promote one extra team, Radstock Town.

Such a decision must be taken an official meeting the date of which has yet to be arranged.