25thfeb05A

Angels chairman Dainty to step down

PAUL DAINTY, the chairman of Ryman Premier League Tonbridge Angels, has announced his resignation from the board along with finance director Robin Apps, writes Stephen McCartney.

Dainty, who leaves the board at Longmead Stadium with Apps on the 1st May, stated that this had been planned for some time and announced he is convinced the club will be taken on by a new chairman and board with whom he has been in discussion with over the last few months.

He further stated that he has been asked to consider a position on a new board, which he is considering.

In a statement on the club's website, he said: "I have had a somewhat turbulent time over the last three seasons and I have been approached by people I believe could take the club forward.

"The discussions have advanced and I believe that the proposals would be in the best interests of the football club.

"I have been asked to stay on the new board and am considering this.

"I need a break and am not ruling out the possibility of having another stint as chairman in a few years.

"My business is growing rapidly and I have made personal sacrifices, which I regret.

"Having said that I hope that in my tenure the club has progressed and would like to thank all supporters who have been magnificent.  I just hope we can still stay in this league and I will still be doing everything in my powers to achieve this.  I remain positive."

Dainty, however, paid tribute to the Angels' player-boss Tony Dolby, and added: "Tony has been tremendous for Tonbridge Angels.  He has worked very hard for the club, sacrificing wages in attempting to keep us in this league.

"I feel he has not had enough cash to bring in the quality that we needed to compete at this level.

"I feel he has been let down by certain individuals.  He is totally committed to the cause and I could not have asked more from him with what he has had to work with."

Dainty closed by stating that he was contemplating an organisational change but would not be drawn on details.  He did, however, reveal, the club's assistant manager Mike Rutherford resigned after their 4-0 midweek loss at Worthing.

Tonbridge Angels v Leyton
Ryman League Premier Division
Saturday 26th February 2005
Kick Off 3:00pm
at the Avavan Longmead Stadium, Darenth Avenue, Tonbridge