We are sure Sittingbourne will be happy in their new home, says Woodstock chairman Maurice Dunk

WOODSTOCK chairman Maurice Dunk says he is welcoming Sittingbourne with open arms to protect the future of their higher-league neighbours.



Sittingbourne announced plans last week that they are to move in to Woodstock’s rural base at Broadoak Road last week, after Kent League Woodstock Sports brought their ground up to Ryman League standard.

Woodstock installed Conference standard floodlights last year and have made extensive ground improvements in recent weeks.

A new 150-seater stand and a covered terrace for 80 people has been erected to go with the uncovered 65 seats already in place.

The complex has two bars, one with a capacity of 250, the other 65, with a tea bar and inside and outside toilets.  There is hard standing on three sides of the pitch, with room for a fourth side. A car park has space for 115 cars.

In a statement, Mr Dunk said: “After many years of discussion it has been decided that we need to protect the uncertain future of Sittingbourne FC in these difficult times.

“We at Woodstock have decided to adopt Sittingbourne FC into our family and work with them as Partners to ensure the very best possible football product can be provided for local people, players, supporters and sponsors on a permanent basis.

“The Partnership we are all sure will prove to be greater than the sum of its parts and the town can look forward to a bright and exciting football and related social future.

“Our ground at Woodstock has been developed to a good standard without losing its rural feel and we are sure Sittingbourne FC will be happy in their new home.

“We are confident we can integrate them with ease and reassure everyone connected to us and in the area that there will not be any problems with this.

“More details of our plans for the coming years will be released when confirmed over the coming weeks.”

Despite playing one league higher, Ryman League Division One South side Sittingbourne have struggled in recent years to attract attendances to Bourne Park and have admitted that they can no longer afford the rent and have decided to move.

In a statement, Sittingbourne chairman Andy Spice said the move suits both parties.

He said: “We are pleased to confirm that Woodstock Park will become the home ground of Sittingbourne Football Club with effect from the season commencing August 2013.

“This follows an Agreement between the Clubs to form a partnership and it is anticipated that by joining forces we will be able to guarantee the future and indeed the growth of both Clubs, whilst providing the best possible opportunities for football in Sittingbourne.

“The Sittingbourne FC Academy will also be part of this new initiative.

“On behalf of Sittingbourne FC, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Maurice Dunk, Chairman of Woodstock, and all other committee members for their support and for welcoming us into their fold. We look forward to working together and to the exciting times ahead.”

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

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