Steve Richardson | 1874 Northwich F.C.

Steve Richardson

Arrangements for 1874 Northwich v City of Liverpool 22nd August 2020

The board of 1874 Northwich FC wish to inform all supporters that, as previously agreed this fixture will be played behind closed doors.

We are aware of the recent changes to guidance relating to allowing supporters inside stadiums. However much consideration has gone into the planning of this fixture in order to ensure that it is conducted in a safe manner in accordance with Government advice. The fixture had always been planned as a dress rehearsal to test and adapt the clubs response to Covid-19. It is the clubs responsibility to ensure the health, safety and well being of our supporters and to ensure that all necessary safeguards are in place and have been tested before allowing supporters through the turnstiles.

It is regretful that given the short notice of the changes to guidance, and the limit on numbers who would be allowed to attend, we do not feel that it would be fair to either side to selectively admit supporters.

The club understands the disappointment that many will feel, but ultimately the long term success of the return of supporters to watching football is paramount.

1874 Northwich are currently arranging an additional pre season warm up game to be played at Townfield on Thursday 27th August 2020. Details of this game and arrangements for admission will be announced shortly.

As always we appreciate the assistance and support of our supporters in ensuring that we can all return to watching football in a safe manner.

On behalf of the board of 1874 Northwich FC

1874 Company Secretary

As everyone knows, Rob Ashcroft decided to step down a few weeks ago, to spend time with family and on his other interests.  We would now like to advertise for a new Company Secretary, to help the Club and Board to keep progressing in the right direction.  They are big shoes to fill, but Rob has been very kind in offering his guidance and of course, Board members will be on hand to support the new person too. 

The Company Secretary plays a key role within the organisation of the Football Club and Society, ensuring that high standards of governance are maintained. As the principal administrator for the Club, the Secretary ensures that the Club functions effectively and will act as the main point of contact between the Board and its Members.

Role Profile


Job Title: Company Secretary
Reports To: 1874 Northwich Board

Role Purpose:

The Company Secretary plays a key role within theorganisation of the Football Cluband Society to ensure that high standards of governance are maintained.As the principal administrator for the Club, the Secretary ensures that the Club functions effectively and will act as the main point of contact between the Board and its Members.

Key Accountabilities:

•Ensure the Club and Society operate in a transparent and open wayand that the Club Model Rules are followed in how the club/society operates.
•Oversee Board members conduct and operation of the Board. -Issue declaration of understanding and board members conduct policy post AGM.
•Produce Board meeting Agendas, record and circulate all minutes from meetings.
•Oversee AGM preparations and operation of meeting. Prepare or AGM literature, forms and reports circulated to membership 7 weeks prior to the AGM giving notice etc. Support the Chair during the AGM meeting, ensure that minutes are produced to all the membership.
•Maintain Club policies, agreements and documents retaining written and electronic records.
•Ensure the Board produce a business plan and published to members.
•FA Charter Standard Award Co-ordinator

Person specification:

Qualifications Valid full (UK) driver’s licence (desirable)
Advanced DBS Disclosure (will be completed by Club)
Emergency First Aid certificate (will be completed with Club)

Knowledge & experience

Competent ICT skills –use of Microsoft Office
Experience of meeting administration would be helpful
Ability to interpret guidance and adviseChairman & Board

Skills

Strong organisational and administrative skills
Excellent communicator–written and verbal, formally and informally
Accuracy and very good attention to detail
Well organised approach to the role

Personal qualities

Takes responsibility for ensuring a high quality of work
Team player
Adaptive –able to cope through challenges
Ability to multi task Hardworking and enthusiasticIntegrity and discretion when handling confidential information.
Commitment to aims and objectives of a community, fan owned and democratic, football club

To apply for this role, please email Community@1874Northwich comproviding supporting information on your suitability

Pre – Season warm up games

Supporters will be aware that tentative steps to a resumption of football are slowly developing.

The first part of this phased return is that permission has been granted by the FA to allow clubs to participate in pre-season warm up games.

These games are to be held under strict adherence with current government regulations relating to Covid-19.

 This statement has been received from the Football Association

“ As it remains, until further notice all games with NLS clubs including pre-season friendlies must remain behind closed doors. This is not an FA position, but a Government position. “

1874 Northwich FC must request that supporters adhere to this guidance and do not attend or attempt to attend to any football games until further notice.

Whilst we are all keen for life to return to normal as soon as possible, by ignoring Government instructions supporters could jeopardise the re-start of football within not only our league, but also the National League System.

We thank you for your co-operation.

On behalf of the board of 1874 Northwich FC

Stephen Richardson
Chairman

Rob Ashcroft

A statement from the Board of 1874 Northwich Football Club.

Rob Ashcroft.

It is with regret that the Board must announce the resignation of Rob Ashcroft from his position as Vice Chairman and Company Secretary of 1874 Northwich FC.

After serious thought both Rob and Sheila have decided to take a step back from football to concentrate their time and efforts into Family and other interests.

The Board wish to place on record their immense gratitude to both Rob and Sheila for the time and effort that they have both contributed to the club.

Rob’s professionalism has been a major factor in ensuring the progress and smooth running of the club, and he will be sorely missed.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to wish both Rob and Sheila all the best in the future. We look forward to welcoming them to the club as supporters in the future.

Stephen Richardson

Chairman

1874 Northwich FC.

Club statement re end of the season

We must start by saying that the biggest challenge and greatest priority for us all at this time is in helping stop and eradicate Covid-19. We must all adopt a responsible approach to manage this the right way to keep our families safe and get through these difficult times.

This crisis put into context and reaffirms that the most important thing in life are our families, partners, children, relatives and friends.

1874 Northwich FC recognises the amazing work, dedication and effort being put in by everyone working in the NHS and our service industries. Without these people we would not be able to see our way through this pandemic, and to these people we are truly grateful.

This week, the Football Association announced the decision to terminate the 2019/20 season at all levels below step 3 of the non league pyramid and to declare all results null and void. Given the obvious uncertainty as to when or if the season could be safely resumed, we appreciate the decision to end the season now. However, the decision to expunge all records with no recognition for the many thousands of man hours that have been put into the last 9 months by players, coaches, club officials, volunteers and supporters is something that we find totally unacceptable.

We believe that this decision has been made in haste, without proper consultation and that fairer more workable solutions should be considered prior to a final decision being made.

To this end 1874 Northwich FC are placing our full support behind the growing list of non league clubs from all over the country who are currently petitioning the Football Association to reconsider this ill thought out decision.

Football particularly at non league and grassroots level has a massive positive effect on many peoples lives and well-being and as a club we will doing all that we can to support our football family through these uncertain times.

We would like to place on record our immense appreciation to all our players, management and coaching staff, volunteers and supporters for the manner in which they have represented the club this season. To completely disregard the efforts and financial contribution of all these people is totally unacceptable and 1874 Northwich FC will be challenging the FA’s decision in the strongest possible terms. We offer our full support to League Chairman Paul Lawler and his management team whom we know are extremely unhappy with the current situation.

1874 Northwich FC will always recognise the achievements of our 2019/20 playing squad. Their performance during this season will be forever a part of our history, whatever the final outcome of the season is.

On behalf of the football club board I would again wish to recognise the efforts and sacrifices made by our 1874 family. At some point football will start again, and we look forward to many more good times.

Look after yourselves, be safe until we meet again.

Stephen Richardson

Chairman
1874 Northwich FC.

Statement regarding the Coronavirus and tomorrow’s home game versus Barnoldswick FC

As you will know the Coronavirus is affecting everyone both inside and outside of sport. Any position taken today is likely to be continually reviewed as time goes on and things could change. However, as it stands this evening tomorrow’s game is ON.

Please see the guidance below issued from the NWCFL after their meeting this evening. This guidance relates only to tomorrow’s game and any future games will be reviewed again by the League, FA and Public Health England referencing Government advice.

As it stands, provided we follow the sensible guidelines from these bodies and take appropriate cleaning and hygiene precautions games can go ahead.

Please come and support us at tomorrow’s game versus Barnoldswick FC providing you are healthy, showing no signs or symptoms, and have no underlying health conditions. If you are in any doubt please do not attend the game err on the side of caution.

We will take necessary precautions regarding hygiene and cleanliness, whether it be with catering or money handling etc. The premises WC’s clubrooms etc will be cleaned thoroughly in the morning before the game and extra soap and tissues, disinfectant etc will be available.

If you have any concerns or issues please contact any board member for further advice.

Statement from The North West Counties League re: Corona Virus

 Following a meeting of the Directors and Management Committee of The North West Counties Football League the decision has been taken to continue to play matches on Saturday 14th March, subject to clubs being in a position to stage the games. The priority should be the safety of all staff members, players, match officials and spectators ahead of any game being played.

The Board has considered the Government’s approach to the Coronavirus outbreak that was announced yesterday, with the United Kingdom moving out of the ‘Containment’ phase and into the ‘Delay’ phase, but stopped short of banning sporting events at this stage.

After consultation with the Board, Management Committee, Officers and several Clubs, we have therefore agreed to strengthen our guidance to clubs and spectators as follows:

The North West Counties Football League strongly advises that those in high-risk groups, as defined by Public Health England, no longer attend matches for the foreseeable future.

The North West Counties Football League strongly advises that matches with projected attendances of over 500 spectators should not take place.

 Clubs are being asked to increase hygiene provisions at all grounds for staff, players, match officials and spectators and to display Public Health England posters at all games.

We are aware of the fragile financial state of some Member Clubs and their reliance on income from home matches.  We encourage Clubs to consider their Clubs ongoing viability when cancelling matches and advise, where possible, that arrangements are made to re-arrange such games. The League Management Committee will support any club requesting a postponement, although we would expect both clubs to act in a responsible manner and mutually agree.

There will no doubt be difficult times ahead and the League Management Committee will consider all options but will be led by guidance from The Football Association. The Board will meet again on Monday 16th March to review this position.

Supporters enjoy match day experience at St Luke’s Barton Stadium

Prior to our recent home win against Burscough, six supporters got a taste of what happens, team wise and behind the scenes on a matchday. Based upon and idea offered by our joint manager Wayne Goodison, supporters were given an insight into team preparation, selection, match tactics, warm up and a review of how it all went. Supporters also observed the warm up, ‘toured’ the changing room and spent some time in the sponsors room. Wayne, Paul, Vicki, Brian Edge, Rob Ashcroft and Phil Lea explained some of their match day duties and experiences and supporters questions were answered.

We have had positive feedback from several of the supporters who attended and we hope to repeat this experience in the near future.

 

silver members

Information for 1874 supporters regarding the Stockport County game

Information received from Stockport County for 1874 supporters

There is no segregation, all supporters will be accommodated in County’s all-seated Danny Bergara (North) Stand (Access is via turnstiles 7 & 8) on Hardcastle Road.

Cash-only turnstiles.

Admission prices:
Adults (18+) £3
*Concessions £2 U18s, over 65’s, disabled supporters

Supporters travelling by car
There will be no parking at the ground, 1874 supporters can use nearby ‘Booth Street’ car park (SK3 9DF) for which a charge of £4.00 is payable. This is a secure car park which will be manned throughout the match from 6pm to 10.30pm. Location as below

Main Club Car Park, Edgeley Park – SK3 9DD – NO SUPPORTERS/PLAYERS

PLAYERS/SUPPORTERS – Stockport College – Booth Street Car Park – SK3 9DF


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1874 Northwich / Cheshire FA press release

Cheshire Football Association and 1874 Northwich F.C .Press Release AGM 29th November 2018.

“Cheshire FA’s announcement earlier this year in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council and ION Developments of their intention to open a unique world class football facility in Cheshire has been a major boost to football within the county.

1874 Northwich FC are delighted to announce that following extensive discussions with Cheshire FA a memorandum of understanding has been signed between the two parties to work towards 1874 Northwich FC becoming a tenant at the 3,000 capacity stadium on site. This agreement will see us working together with Cheshire FA to form a more formal partnership when the site is completed.

The Board of 1874 Northwich FC are extremely grateful for the role played by Stuart Manifould, Business Development & Operations Manager at Cheshire FA and are looking forward to working with Cheshire FA to significantly increase opportunities and experiences for all participants within the game.”

Any questions can be addressed by Alex Dickinson 1874 Board Member with Lead Responsibility for Ground Development. E mail: youthdev@1874northwich.com or via post to our Registered Office at 450 London Road, Davenham, Northwich. CW9 8EF.

Taylor Kennerley – NWCFL September Player of the Month

The presentation for NWCFL Player of the Month for September was made to Taylor Kennerley by league representative Stewart Taylor.

Taylor put a mixed August behind him and knuckled down during September.  During the five games played, he made a big impact in each one earning two player of the match awards from the opposition but more accolades from sponsors and supporters.
1874 started the month at Squires Gate and were beaten by a very good footballing side.  The task was made all the more difficult when the team were reduced to ten men, but Taylor constantly tried to create openings for his team mates whilst tracking back when required.
Fortunes picked up for the Greens and a home win against Litherland followed to set them on a path for a steadier month.  Taylor played his part in creating openings for his team mates flicking the ball on to an attacker who lobbed the ball just wide.  When 1874 took the lead, there was a real sense of purpose to hold on for the first win of the season.  Taylor pushed hard to make it more comfortable, flashing an angled shot just wide of the post and set up a number of other chances for his team.
Next up was a tricky encounter at inform Runcorn Town.  In truth, the Greens deserved something from the game, but were undone by a hotly debated penalty awarded to the hosts, when contact was clearly made out of the area.  1874 started the game brightly forcing a series of corners.  A free kick from Taylor deflected off the defensive wall. From the corner the ball was propelled goal wards, only for the Town keeper to pull off a good save.
In the 16th minute a well worked corner between involving Kennerley, allowed a pinpoint delivery into the Runcorn area which found a 74 player who stabbed the ball home.  Despite a scrappy start to the second half, 1874 continued to enjoy most of the attacking play with Runcorn’s attacking options being limited.  1874 shot just over the bar following a good run down the left wing and cross by Kennerley.  Taylor continued to work hard for the team, all to no avail.
The following week, a trip to West Didsbury was on the calendar.  A Taylor Kennerley double ensured 1874 Northwich returned home from Manchester with their second win of the season. The winger struck in each half as 1874 defeated West Didsbury& Chorlton 2-1 at Brookburn Road.
1874 enjoyed the greater share of possession throughout an open game in which both sides were committed to attacking, although neither goalkeeper was put under too much pressure as goal scoring chances were few and far between.
Kennerley opened the scoring in the 20th minute, his cross from the left caused confusion in the West penalty area, allowing a team mate to shoot. The shot was blocked by the feet of West goalkeeper Marcus Burgess; having drifted in field Kennerley drilled the rebound through a packed box and into the net from 12 yards.
In the second half, a ball was supplied to Taylor, in which he headed narrowly wide.  In the 65th minute, the ball was won in the middle of the park; a pass set Kennerley away down the left wing, his cross found a green attacked who sliced the ball wide.  The West goalkeeper was unable to prevent Kennerley restoring 1874’s advantage in the 74th minute. Meeting a Paul Connor cross eight yards out he bulleted a header past a helpless Burgess.
The final game of September saw 1874 pick up their second win on the bounce, with three points against Bootle.   Taylor Kennerley had a shot blocked by the legs of the Bootle goalkeeper in the first half, but the deadlock was broken in the 37th minute. Cutting in from the right wing, Kennerley passed infield to a team mate.  HIs shot from outside the area was fumbled by the keeper allowing the following up Kennerley to score from close range.
Minutes later, the ball was slipped into the path of Kennerley whose shot beat the keeper but not the covering defender who cleared the ball off the line.   With the game seemingly heading towards a draw, 1874 struck the decisive blow to secure their second successive victory.
Kennerley powered his way the Bootle rear guard, delivering a cut back from the dead ball line he found a team mate lurking at the far post to tap the ball home.
There has been an improved maturity from Taylor, since a few discipline issues in August and that has played an important part in 1874’s resurgence on the field