Most supporters will have learnt yesterday evening (18/02) of the decision through a vote by clubs to end the 2020/21 season at National North and South level (Step 2) with immediate effect. 

It is of course a matter of record that Tonbridge Angels voted to end the season but let us say straightaway there is no sense of victory or celebration today (19/02). There are no winners emerging from this extraordinary few months and whilst mistakes may have been made this is not the moment for recriminations or accusations.  

We know that many clubs will be very unhappy with yesterday evening’s announcement and we fully understand that point of view.  Clubs have different administrative structures and varying business models and some would have been confident in carrying through this season to a conclusion.  There was never going to be a totally positive outcome for anyone.

For us it was a simple case of economics.  With virtually no money coming in but still attempting to aspire to the ideals of a semi professional organisation competing within an elite football league, the finances simply didn’t stack up.  We should all remember that the real reason for the difficulties the National League has found itself in has been the Pandemic itself, a virus that in the UK alone has claimed 120,000 lives and counting, and has ruined so many others.  

Successful vaccines and efficient testing will be the way through this national emergency and hopefully we will be able to welcome back all of you this coming August if not earlier for those pre-season friendlies by which time our bar and catering facilities will in be operation once again.. 

All levels at the club must now focus on the prize of the country returning to some sense of normality.  A stadium full of supporters, a clubhouse buzzing with all the latest chatter, healthy sporting participation at various levels for the town’s residents particularly youth, and events both public and private at our fantastic community facility, are what we all crave for.

Much has been  achieved at the club over the last few years but the potential is there to do so much more.   The Board is already discussing some very important initiatives and valuable projects which we will be sharing with you all over the next few weeks so watch this space.  Even now, Manager, Steve McKimm and his Assistant Barry Moore are thinking very specifically about a 1st team squad to compete in National South next season.  

Before we place a veil over this chaotic season we shouldn’t forget the fantastic achievement of reaching the 1st Round Proper of the FA Cup with a live national TV broadcast from our own stadium.  That particular record will always stand.  

However we must now all look forward to the future; its very much a case of onwards and upwards!