New Hungerford Town board sets out aims for National League side

Patrick Chambers (left) and Carl Reader.
Patrick Chambers (left) and Carl Reader. Photo: Phil Cannings/Newbury Weekly News.

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Hungerford Town’s new Chairman and Vice Chairman are determined to take the Vanarama National League South side in a different direction after securing the clubs future at step 2 of the English Football Pyramid.

Patrick Chambers and Carl Reader, the incoming chair and vice chair at the Bulpit Lane side have taken on the Crusaders after the previous board of chairman Steve Skipworth, secretary Mike Hall and treasurer Terry Wild stepped down at the end of the 2018/19 season.

Currently managed by Ian Herring, the Crusaders ensured a fourth year in the National League South at the end of last season with a terrific run of results that included a 1-0 win away to champions Torquay United in the penultimate game.

Ian Herring. Photo: Phil Cannings.
Ian Herring. Photo: Phil Cannings.

Hungerford, in West Berkshire is one of the smallest towns to host a National League side with a population under 6,000 people. The club itself is one of only a few that remain operating as not-for-profit.

‘I want to keep football as it should be ‘

In a press release put out by the club, that aspect is something the new board intends to continue. Mr Reader said: “I’m delighted to be helping the club out. My main aim for HTFC is simple: I want to keep football as it should be – something for the community, rather than something for property developers to make a few quid off.

“Our primary focus is to achieve financial stability for the club by boosting sponsorship and really engaging with the community. So many people don’t realise what a wonderful club they have on their doorstep!” 

In a statement of intent, the press release adds: “The leadership duo are committed to using a different model than the usual in the football world. Rather than aiming to be a private company seeking high net worth investors, they are using a far more sustainable not-for profit ‘Community Interest Company’ format, focusing on three key values for the club – transparency, community and sustainability. This will ensure the club is owned by the community, for the community. “

According to newburytoday.co.uk, the story of how the pair got involved with the club followed Mr Chambers wife spotting call for support on social media.

Reporter Liam Headd wrote: “He [Mr Chambers] watched his first game at Bulpit Lane when Crusaders hosted Slough Town on April 6.

“Chambers’ wife then  saw a post on social media in regards to Hungerford seeking a number of new roles ahead of the new season.”

Both men have committed to three to five years at the club which was a Hellenic League side as recently as 2009.

Main image: Patrick Chambers (left) and Carl Reader by Phil Cannings/Newbury Weekly News.

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