Pictures of a prototype section of the brand new covered Roll On-Roll Off Terracing were displayed to excited Chelmsford City supporters at Wednesday night’s Fans Forum at the Clubhouse as scores of Clarets welcomed the news that their fundraising efforts to pay for ground improvements at Melbourne Stadium had reached five figures. 

Photos of the mock-up section, which is currently situated at Newport County’s Spytty Park before its appearance at City’s home, boosted spirits further at a wholly positive meeting as fund organiser Rob Hill revealed the fans’ target has been raised from £12,000 to £15,000 following a larger than expected response to the ‘Raise the Roof’ campaign, with ten sections required for City to gain certification.

Elsewhere at the meeting, Chairman Mansell Wallace revealed current forecasts suggest the club will end the season with a clear, debt-free balance sheet for the first time in recent memory except for the ‘friendly’ loans from local individuals and businesses which remain under control. He also reiterated that “we can’t afford not to go up” as the Board continues to support the Management Team’s bid for Blue Square Premier football.

Clarification was additionally offered on the recent more realistic budget constraints and fans were reassured that, although expenses had been trimmed both on and off the pitch, City’s playing budget remains sufficiently fluid to provide for possible eventualities such as player injury. This was reinforced by Head Coach Glenn Pennyfather, who advised those present who he expects to meet should his team make the play-offs.

49 Club - Last Week’s Winners: City’s 49 Club winners for the National Lottery Bonus Ball Draw which took place on Saturday 27th February were Martin Bissett, Bob Sykes and Jean Brewer who celebrated as number 47 ball dropped from the machine. Martin wins every week, but generously donates his winnings to the club! Details on how to join the 49 Club can be found in the 'Clarets' section.