NEW MARINERS CHAIRMAN: 'HEALTH OF PLAYERS, STAFF AND FANS IS PARAMOUNT'

Action at Blundell Park - in this match Doncaster Rovers were the visitors

LAWYER Philip Day has been named as chairman of  Grimsby Town Football Club.

It is understood he was elected unanimously at yesterday's meeting of the board which was held by video-conference facilities.

It is not a surprise.

Although, as chief shareholder, John Fenty has been at the helm for many years, he preferred not to hold the title of chairman.

Since becoming deputy leader of North East Lincolnshire Council in May last year, he has reduced his involvement with the running of the club.

In his stead, Mr Day has become more involved.

Despite the challenges faced by the club, not least since the advent of coronavirus,  the solicitor has sounded an upbeat note.

 “It is a great honour to be appointed as chairman of my hometown club," he declared. " I thank my fellow directors for the confidence shown in appointing me. 

"My first match at Blundell Park was in the 1958/59 season and like so many of my fellow fans I was hooked. 

"There have been so many memorable matches since that time together with the joys of promotion seasons and the despair of relegation seasons."

Mr Day continued: "This is probably the most difficult time for the Club in its 142-year history. 

"We do not know when we will be playing football again and under what conditions. 

"We are looking at different scenarios and planning and budgeting accordingly."

"Hopefully, we will shortly have more certainty as to whether the current season will be finished by playing or terminated without any further games and the plans for next season. 

"What is paramount when going forward is the health and wellbeing of the players, staff and fans - we should not do anything which would jeopardise that.

"We have a united board and we will work tirelessly to ensure that the club survives this crisis. 

"I am aware that many fans want to help us in this endeavour. 

"When we have the certainty referred to above then we will be in contact to discuss with fans how they can assist. 

"Together we will get through it.”

Packed crowds  like this are unlikely to return until coronavirus is vanquished