Maurice Dunk takes over as Sittingbourne chairman

Wednesday 05th June 2013

SITTINGBOURNE have today confirmed that Andy Spice has stepped down as chairman.

The Ryman League Division One South club have announced that Maurice Dunk, who was previously the chairman of Kent League side Woodstock Sports and is a shareholder of the company that has the leasehold for Woodstock Park, has taken over.

Sittingbourne have moved into the Woodstock complex after leaving Bourne Park after eleven years due to the rising costs of playing at the ground.

A club statement, which was published on the club website www.sittingbournefc.co.uk said: “It is well known that Andy Spice has been keen to hand over the reins as chairman for some time now.

“He has worked incredibly hard for the club over the years and is the primary reason that the club has survived the difficult times since the problems at Central Park.

“He feels that now that Sittingbourne are starting a new chapter in their history the time is now right to relinquish the post and Maurice is the perfect person to take the club forward.

“All supporters will be pleased to know that Andy will continue as vice-chairman.

“Maurice played for the club in the 1970's and is looking forward to the new challenge.”

Meanwhile, Kent League club Woodstock Sports have confirmed that Mr Dunk has been appointed life-member of the club, with Ron Welling stepping up as chairman.

A club statement issued on www.woodstocksports.co.uk said: “Maurice has been appointed life member of Woodstock Sports FC. This honorary role is appointed to members who have previously served the club as chairman and also to members that have shown long term loyalty, service and commitment.

“Maurice has been involved in local football for over 40 years namely with Old Oak FC and Woodstock Park FC serving as chairman.

“During the 2012/13 season, Maurice joined Sports as acting chairman when Ron Welling stepped down temporarily due to other business commitments.

“This summer has been one of mixed emotions for Maurice. Maurice and the rest of the Woodstock Park FC executive committee decided to withdraw the first team from the Kent Invicta League. This was mainly due to Sittingbourne FC facing extinction unless a new home was found for them. The club decided it would not stand by and watch the districts senior club cease, and so Sittingbourne FC have taken Woodstock Park FC’s place on the main pitch.

“With Sittingbourne FC moving to Woodstock, Maurice has decided to join the Brickies ranks and help integrate Sittingbourne FC into life at Woodstock.”

Explaining Mr Welling’s position at the club, the statement added: “Ron has once again taken back the leadership of the club after temporarily stepping down mid-way through last season due to other business commitments.

“Originally taking over as chairman of Sports in the winter of 2010, Ron will again resume his role as Chairman for the forthcoming season.

“Ron has already proved he has the correct blend of experience, skills, attitude and demeanour to represent the best interests of the club.”

Visit Sittingbourne’s website: www.sittingbournefc.co.uk

Visit Woodstock Sports’ website: www.woodstocksports.co.uk