Mr Essai commented that the club was in a very good position, and re-emphasised the statement made last year - 'The Cavalry has arrived!'

This he said was in the form of 22 positions filled by volunteers from only five last season.

The club's position in terms of community support could not have been better. The Chelsea match was an excellent demonstration of the club's desire to be a community asset and the affiliation of the Town Juniors was a major step towards bridging the career line for young players.

On the pitch, secretary Mark Nicoll commented that the first team had made a considerable achievement moving up from 17th to eighth place in Division 1 of the Wessex League and the reserves moved from bottom to ninth place.

Paul Ryan, football manager and first team manager, announced the Football Strategy for the club, showing the youth team as playing a major part in the development of football in Petersfield.

Mark went on to add that the Chelsea match was the catalyst in making things happen, and was pleased for the financial contribution on the bottom line, which allowed the club to pay for some essential maintenance requirements.

The following officers were re-elected for another term: Ian Essai, chairman; Graeme Moir, vice chairman; Mark Nicoll, secretary; and Sue Coombes joined the committee as treasurer.

The committee thanked Alan Twiddy, who was standing down from the management committee, and welcomed Tim Waller and Dave Bowers to the team.