Now is the time to stand down, says Hythe Town chairman Paul Markland

HYTHE TOWN begin the search for a new chairman after announcing that Paul Markland has stepped down after 12 years in charge of the Reachfields Stadium club.


Mr Markland has decided to step down due to increased work commitments over the next two years.

The chairman has overseen the most successful years in the club’s history, including finding their feet in the Kent League after a decade of struggle before appointing current manager Scott Porter, who in turn delivered the Kent League championship in the 2010-11 season.

That season also saw a sensational run to the FA Cup First Round, when Porter’s side went down to a brave 5-1 defeat to then League Two side Hereford United.

The last two years have seen the club established as a Ryman League club, with the best ever league finish in the club’s history coming a few weeks ago when the club finished in fourth-place in Ryman League Division One South, resulting in a spot in the play-offs.

The club could not forget their first season back in the Kent Senior Cup, which saw Porter’s side defeat Kent League side Erith Town before humbling a trio of higher-league clubs, Ebbsfleet United, Dover Athletic before beating Dartford in the final in May 2012.

Mr Markland issued a statement on the club’s official website www.hythetownfc.co.uk and said: “I am facing a busy next 18 months to two years in my business life and decided now is the time to stand down.

“I wish Scott, the players, directors and supporters all the best for the future.

“It has been an interesting journey, challenging and a lot of pleasure. My heart will still be in Hythe.  I have missed very few games in my time as chairman and will still go to games as a supporter.”

He added: “The FA Cup run, beating Staines and playing Hereford in the first round was very exciting in itself, as well as beating Dartford to win the Kent Senior Cup last season.

“I am one of seven directors and everybody has played their part.  We have learned a lot after making the step-up from the Kent League and establishing ourselves as a respected member of the Ryman League.”

Anyone interested in stepping forward to help the club next season and/or be considered for the vacant position of chairman, is encouraged to contact club secretary Martin Giles on 01303 265 962.

Visit Hythe Town’s website: www.hythetownfc.co.uk