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Players Retained list
announced
The Squad retainer form allows Northern League Clubs to register existing
players during the month of April for the next campaign. Bedlington
Terriers FC have announced that 11 players have pledged their immediate
futures to the club so far. These players are:
Dan Regan
Anth Lowther
Anth Lowrie
Alex Lawson
Michael Latimer
Anthony Shandran
Gareth McAlindon
Alistair Stobbs
Rob Eastway
John Milner
Dean Gibb
Several others have been invited to remain at the Club, who are hopeful
that their signings can be agreed in the coming days and weeks.
Terriers Forum Back Online!!
As you may have noticed, the Bedlington Terriers forum on www.nonleaguezone.com
was unexpectedly offline for two days. This wais a problem affecting
the whole of Nonleaguezone and its sister site www.spartanzone.com.
Whatever the problem was we're not sure, but we're glad to confirm
that normal serice has resumed.
Terriers
Chairman seeks urgent action on ground facelift
Bedlington Terriers Chairman Dave Holmes took steps
at the weekend to ensure that the club had a viable future at their
Welfare Park ground. Starved of investment for many years, Dr Pit
Welfare Park is showing serious signs of dilapidation, and urgently
needs work done to ensure continued public safety, and the ground
maintains the standards required to meet the criteria needed for
Northern League Division One status.
This job has been made all the more difficult in
recent weeks due to the high winds, and indeed the recent gales
caused further damage with the roof being blown off the opposition
dugout, as well as damage to the roofs of some of the covered standing
area on the same side of the ground.
Holmes was stark in his assessment of the situation;
"Welfare Park is falling apart and with Division One grounds
due to be inspected this summer, we are of course concerned that
we have to get a number of things done to ensure we can pass it
without any major issues arising"
"The major issue is where the investment is
going to come from to achieve these ground improvements. When we
came into the club more than 18 months ago, we were promised some
funds to make necessary improvements to spectator facilities, especially
toilets, but once the costs became known the door quickly shut.
Without us being able to identify new avenues of funding quickly,
the situation is going to get critical. I am working with Wansbeck
District Council on funding applications and believe that some headway
is being made with regards to assistance from W.D.C. before the
unitary Council is formed, but progress is slow."
The urgency of the situation is further highlighted
by the fact that Ashington could be forced to groundshare at Welfare
Park into the opening months of next season, allegedly due to ongoing
problems with the construction of their new ground at Hirst Welfare.
"We are in a position where this ground is struggling to host
one team and a pitch which has needed major work for several years;
so how will it be expected to cope with another team and twice the
number of fixtures?" Holmes added.
Out of this nest of problems he was able to announce
the creation of a Grants Project Team, staffed by a mixture of new
and old blood and whose task will be to identify possible sources
of funding for ground improvements, and manage the application process
and hopefully ultimately the spending of grants awarded.
"This new team is constituted by me and 3 other
people, all Bedlington Terriers supporters who offer a broad range
of professional expertise and experience in their fields. This step
has been a long time coming, but I have absolute faith that at last
we can make big and quick strides to securing the funding needed
in the long-term development of Welfare Park"
However, the short term is still the major concern,
and with funding still being sought to make the necessary repairs
and do minor works needed ahead of the summer inspection, the Terriers
Chairman made another plea for local companies and other sponsors
to get in touch and help a club which has achieved great things
in the past 10-15 years, but is fighting the long hard battle back
from near extinction.
"Whether it be professional people willing to
use their knowhow for the benefit of the club, businesses willing
to discuss sponsorship packages, or people in the community willing
to offer their time and help to give the club a facelift, all offers
of help are welcome. The management team of Tony and Keith are solely
left to manage first team affairs and these ground issues should
not impact on their efforts to improve the fortunes of the football
team" Holmes said.
Interested individuals and businesses are welcomed
to contact Dave Holmes on 07958664536 to discuss how they
can help the Club move forward.
Return of Terriers Legend Hailed
He's back for a third spell at the club, and as many
times before his impact on the club's fortunes is being hailed by
the Bedlington faithful. But it's not the goalscoring exploits of
the Terriers all-time leading scorer that have caught the eye, but
his natural ability as a central defender.
Coming into a team which had been on a long run of
poor results which had seen the Terriers drop into the relegation
zone, his arrival has coincided with a remarkable turnaround in
performances. Deprived the services of James Harmison (one of the
most highly rated defenders in the League) for most of the season,
the Terriers had struggled to stem the tide in recent months, with
unfair expectations being placed on the shoulders of Dan Kennerley
after he won 'Most Improved Player' award last season.
Lacking the experience around him, the return of
John Milner has allowed manager Tony Lowery to take the young and
undoubtedly talented centre half out of the firing line for the
moment. "Dan has a lot of potential, but still has a lot to
learn before he can realise it. Most defenders don't learn their
art until their mid-to-late twenties so I've no doubt he will come
back stronger and show his true value to the team" Lowery commented.
With regards to Milner, he is able to use his vast
experience from being a striker to use in his defensive duties,
alongside his legendary prowess in the air. This culminated in a
man of the match performance against Chester-le-Street Town on Saturday,
when the Terriers recorded not just a fine 3-0 winning margin, but
also their first clean sheet for 3 months - and only their 4th in
29 League games so far this campaign.
A club spokesman commented on the difference Milner
had made since his return: 'Getting John back to Welfare Park has
been a huge boost to the club. His heart is with Bedlington and
he considers us his club. The level of commitment, ability and experience
he brings is priceless, and he has already justified Tony in his
decision to try and secure his return to Bedlington. Hopefully,
he can help us in our drive to safety in the League, and maybe it
could be the start of another long stint at the Club"
Striker has transfer
request granted
Bedlington Terriers FC tonight confirmed that they had received a
transfer request from leading scorer Alex Benjamin, which they had
reluctantly granted. Benjamin, with 14 goals in all competitions this
season has decided that he is in need of a change, and that decision
to leave was a difficult one.
"This isn't a decision taken lightly, and I had originally decided
to leave a couple of months ago, only for Tony [Lowery] to persuade
me to stay on. However, I now feel this is the right time to leave
and I'd like to thank Tony for granting my request so quickly"
He added; "I've enjoyed my time at Welfare Park, and Bedlington
are a club close to my heart having already played here early in my
Northern League career. I'd like to thank all at the club, and especially
the fans who have always given me tremendous support. I know that
they will get what they deserve and the Terriers will once again soon
be challenging for the major honours."
The impending departure of Bejamin is the latest of several players
who have recently left the Club, with Derek Waters going to Washington,
Derek Atwell to Morpeth and Gareth Bainbridge about to transfer to
Ashington.
The Terriers would like to thank Alex for his endeavours in his time
at Welfare Park - lest we forget how crucial his goals were in the
final games of last season which ultimately secured our survival.
We're sure that several clubs will be keen to contact the Terriers
to secure his services, and we wish him all the very best wherever
he goes - except when he plays against us!
Bedlington Terriers Appeal for
Help - Official Press Release
Bedlington Terriers today issued a plea for help to the local community.
Having stabilised the club over the previous 18 months chairman
Dave Holmes is eager for an injection of fresh blood into the club.
"We have a fantastically loyal committee behind
the scenes at Bedlington but we lack in numbers and if we can get
some extra faces willing to help us, in whatever capacity they can,
we could make huge strides forward" said Holmes. "Clubs
at this level find it very hard to survive day to day and we are
no different, I'm looking to the community to help us. We have had
well documented problems in the past, but that is exactly where
those times lie, in the past. We must look to the future, the club
is now stabilised and with Keith and Tony looking after the football
side of things, it's up to myself and the committee to give them
as much support as possible to ensure we have a team capable of
challenging for honours".
With big plans for the playing squad next season,
the club is already starting to look at how to raise the necessary
funds to give the town the team it deserves. Sponsorship is the
key area where non league club funds come from and that is an area
where Holmes is asking the local community for help.
"Bedlington is home to many successful businesses
and it would be nice to think that they would want to get behind
their local club and get a bit of exposure at the same time. We
are more than grateful to the local businesses that already support
us, we are indebted to them for sticking by the club, but we need
more. Bedlington is a big town and it would be a travesty if at
some point in the future it didn't have a football club, but without
support that is what will happen".
With President Graeme Redpath recently departing
the Welfare Park outfit, Holmes is keen to push the club on but
cannot do it without new faces getting involved with the running
of the club.
"The new season is still a number of months
off, but planning for it has already started so there is no better
time for people to get involved, whether it be on a match day or
not. Absolutely anybody who wants to get involved will be welcomed
to the club and if any businesses would like to discuss sponsorship
packages, then I'm all ears!"
Dave Holmes can be contacted on 07958 664536.
Gibb: Nerves Got The Better Of Us
Bedlington Terriers legend Dean Gibb, now first team
coach at Welfare Park, displayed a mixture of disappointment and
relief after his side's 2-2 draw against West Auckland Town. Gibb,
in charge of the side for the afternoon due to manager Tony Lowery
being away on holiday, had named an unchanged starting eleven from
the side which won so well at Seaham the previous weekend.
After conceding a late equaliser to deny a vital
second successive victory, he was in realistic mood after the game.
"In normal circumstances we could consider these two points
dropped, but we allowed ourselves to be put under so much pressure
that there seemed inevitability about their equaliser. As the second
half wore on, our nerves just increased and we sat back inviting
pressure, which was not the right thing to do"
Gibb revealed that he had almost made changes whilst
the Terriers were a goal down in the first half, only for a quick
double by recent signing Gareth McAlindon to turn the game on its
head. "We were second best in the game and didn't look like
we were ever going to get back in it so I was ready to make changes
even before the end of the half. The up steps Gareth with 2 pieces
of absolute quality - the kind of play we were hoping to see from
him when we made our agreement with Benfield".
Had West keeper Alan Wilkinson not got his fingertips
to Tony Shandran's effort when still 2-1, perhaps the home side
would have gone on to secure the points which would have lifted
them another 2 places in the table, but Gibb was realistic enough
to admit that the visitors got their just rewards in the end.
"Although the 3 points would have been another
great boost to us, I have to be honest and admit that West [Auckland]
were good value for a share of the spoils, and if truth be told,
could easily have won the game. It's a fair result, and we can take
positives from the game and concentrate on the next game" he
stated.
He did admit, however, that he wished he had made
his second half changes earlier than he actually did, "I held
off too long switching things round and perhaps that was a mistake
given the pressure we were putting ourselves under. However, the
impact of substitutions can be a lottery at times and I'm happy
to stand by my decisions"
With the rescheduled game against Blyth on Wednesday
night, seeing two teams fighting for their league status at present,
both will be keeping their eyes firmly fixed on their respective
league games this weekend.
Lowery delighted
with Seaham result!
Bedlington Terriers manager Tony Lowery was relieved to finally notch
his first victory since his surprise return to the club in November.
Inheriting a squad which had already secured 21 points in the League
prior to his and Keith Perry's arrival, the legendary management duo
have found the going tough in the meantime.
With only a point against Ashington to their names before Saturday,
a squad which is gradually being reshaped put on a tremendous performance
to down in-form Seaham Red Star on their own patch 3-2, with Lowery's
recent signing, striker Tony Shandran proving to be the decisive difference
between the teams by scoring all three goals.
"To say I was delighted to get our first win since Keith and
I returned would be an understatement. The lads effort and commitment
since we came back has been 110% in every game but we've lacked a
little bit of quality when its mattered. We have inherited a great
set of lads and I was disappointed to have to let Scott Marshall and
Lee Hamilton go, but we had no choice, if we wanted players to come
in and try and rescue our season"
Lowery admitted that he was still scouring the league for players
who could be available and help the Terriers climb back out of a relegation
zone they had slipped into having being in the relative comfort of
mid-table earlier in the season.
"Getting three players of the quality of Shandran, McAlindon
and Lowrie has been a huge boost and their performances and impact
so far have justified the difficult decision in letting others go.
We are still looking at adding to the squad but we will need to wheel
and deal over the coming weeks if things are to happen."
Lowery has moved to boost his coaching options, with keeper Karl Dryden
being given dedicated training and coaching - a move which has had
an immediate impact. Having perhaps been culpable for a number of
goals in recent weeks, Dryden stormed back into the kind of form which
has seen him touted as one of the best young keepers in the North
East non-league scene.
"Karl was outstanding on Saturday, and but for him the scoreline
could have been very different. We could see his potential, but like
many players can suffer crises of confidence when things are not going
well which in turn lead to making mistakes. I have every faith he
will show us exactly what he is capable of, and turn potential into
consistent top quality performances" Lowery added.
As well as Dean Gibb returning to the club as First team coach, it
is understood that fellow Terriers great Warren Teasdale has also
been back at Welfare Park helping out with training. Finally, Lowery
paid tribute to the Bedlington support, which again turned out at
Seaham in large numbers.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the tremendous
following support we have, to see the majority of the crowd on Saturday
as Bedlington supporters says a lot about the spirit of the club,
we need that to continue and for our home gates to improve if we are
to drive this club back to where we have been in the past. We have
big plans for this club but need everyone to stick together and get
behind the team, we can't do it alone."
Terriers trade players
with Benfield!
There were major moves by the Terriers to freshen up their squad as
they seek to halt a slump which has seem the Club fall into the relegation
zone over the Christmas programme. Winger Scott Marshall and striker
Lee Hamilton have left Bedlington and signed for Newcastle Benfield,
with 3 players coming to Welfare Park in return.
Two of the three are very familiar to the Terriers supporters, as
Gareth McAlindon and Tony Shandran return to their former club. The
third player in the deal is defender Anthony Lowrie, a player Tony
Lowery admitted he had tried to sign several seasons previously when
playing at Morpeth. The general feeling is that it is a deal that
will suit both clubs equally - and Hamilton started (with Marshall
coming off the bench) in Benfield's superb 4-2 win at Durham on Saturday.
Bedlington will have all 3 signings available for their tough visit
to Dunston Federation this coming Saturday, and it is hoped that the
addition of proven quality to the side will have an instant impact
on the struggling Terriers' fortunes.
Consett game this
Wednesday (19th Dec) postponed
Bedlington Terriers Secretary Lawrence Appleby has confirmed that
this Wednesday's tough away game at Consett has been postponed until
an new date can be agreed. All but one Northern League game was called
off at the weekend, as was Consett's FA Vase home tie against Trafford
(for the second week running). As the cold snap is set to continue,
the decision has been made now for two reasons:
1. The ground is so hard at Consett's Belle Vue ground that it is
not expected that it will be playable by Wednesday - even though the
game is 3 days away.
2. As Consett's FA Vase game has been rescheduled for next Saturday
(22nd), the postponement also gives a fellow ANL club the best chance
of preparation possible for this key game.
This being the case, it means that the Terriers are now back in action
the same day, when in-form Billingham Synthonia visit Welfare Park
Lowery Rues Bad Luck As Losing Run Continues
Terriers' manager Tony Lowery voiced his frustration
at his side's poor luck, after Billingham Town clinched a quick
double of wins at Welfare Park. A vastly improved performance from
the one given on Wednesday night when they were humbled 5-2 in the
League Cup was not enough as Anthony Chapman returned to haunt his
former club with the two goals that gave his team all 3 points.
"On Wednesday night, for the first time in memory
I was embarrassed at the final whistle after the performance we
had put on. After this game, I am wondering how we didn't get something
from the game. The lads made a huge improvement but yet again they
get no reward for their endeavours."
Lowery acknowledged that the return of key defender
James Harmison is vital to his sides continued defensive improvement;
"James is a top quality player, and you can see the performance
levels rise in the players around him when he plays. The struggle
is to keep him fit as he battles long term injuries and we hope
to see much more of his during the remainder of the season".
He also hailed to the return to first team action
by skilful winger Craig McFarlane, who suffered four separate groin
tears in the opening game of the season against Jarrow Roofing.
Ironically, providing the young ex-Sunderland man came through his
substitute appearance without side-effects, he is in line to make
his first starting role since then against the same opposition this
Saturday.
"Craig is a quality player, and any team would
be glad to have him playing for them. In fact I'm looking forward
to him doing so for us, as it will almost be like signing a new
player, with his being out for 4 months. Playing him with [Scott]
Marshall gives us the chance to play with genuine width by attacking
the full backs with pace. It also holds out the hope of providing
our strikers with the delivery they have been craving".
Lowery is continuing in his quest to strengthen the
squad, but understandably refused to be drawn on the specific targets
he has in mind. Discussions have been in progress with a number
of clubs over several players, but only time will tell if his efforts
will be rewarded. He admits that this season is about consolidating
the league position, assessing the squad at his disposal, and eventually
looking ahead to the next campaign.
A club spokesperson urged supporters to rein in their
expectation at what will be achieved in the short term since the
return of Bedlington's most successful management team. "Results
and sometimes performances haven't been up to the standard people
remember from their previous tenure, but a dose of patience and
realism is required."
"Tony and Keith are under no illusion of the
task at hand, but already we can see signs of the return of the
attacking brand of football which put Bedlington on the map. There
is always going to be a bit of upheaval when there are changes at
the top, but we have every faith that results will change for the
better and our climb up the table begins" the spokesperson
added.
Lowery: "Don't Expect Miracles"
Bedlington Terriers joint manager Tony Lowery was
realistic in his assessment of his side's 5-3 home defeat by local
rivals West Allotment Celtic. They let an early lead and dominance
slip to trail 4-1 at one point, with ex-Terriers Keith Douglas bagging
a triple. Despite a stirring comeback, it was asking too much for
a young Bedlington side that have been through a tough 18 months
with struggles on and off the pitch.
"Already I can see there's a lot of potential
in this squad of players, but confidence is low at present. Nobody
was expecting miracles just because of the success Keith and I had
over the years, and its early days yet. The lads showed great spirit
at 4-1 down; in other games they might have put their heads down
and gone on to ship another couple of goals, however, two really
classy goals spurred them on and I think we were unlucky not to
get a point out of the game".
Lowery revealed that former manager Tom Wade had
contacted him to wish him good luck in his surprise return to Welfare
Park. "I've known Tom for a long time, and he was quickly on
the phone to wish me well and offer any help he could. I think this
says a lot about him as a person, and as much about what this club
means to people who are lucky enough to get involved here."
Lowery is determined that him and Keith will slowly
begin to turn around the fortunes of the club again, although he
acknowledges that it could take time. "I understand that expectations
will be high because of successes in the past, but the club has
gone through a lot since those days, and the Chairman's priority
will be to continue to get things right off the pitch, which will
allow us to get it right on it".
Perry and Lowery
in surprise return to Terriers
In a move that is sure to stun both Bedlington supporters and the
wider non-league scene, Terriers Chairman Dave Holmes moved to quickly
appoint a new management team after the recent departure of Tom Wade
by reappointing Tony Lowery and Keith Perry at the helm in charge
of first team affairs.
Both left the club at the end of the 2005/06, when it seemed that
the future of Bedlington Terriers was bleak and hope was limited.
Despite a season ending in turmoil, they had still managed to guide
the Terriers to the runners up spot in the League and the semi-final
in the Senior Cup. Some people may find this return of the club's
most successful management team controversial, but Holmes is sure
that it is the right appointment for Bedlington Terriers:
"Tony and Keith have a proven track record at this club, and
both have been out of the game for some time now. With Tom Wade's
recent departure, I was determined that we should have some continuity
in the running of team affairs, whether that meant pointing from within
or externally. I approached Tony and Keith about the chance of them
making a return to take control of first team affairs and am delighted
that they have agreed to do so."
Holmes feels this appointment has come at a key moment in the future
of Bedlington Terriers; "We have come a long way in a short time
in turning around the fortunes of this club, but recently it has felt
that we have started to stagnate a little, perhaps even tread water.
A club that stands still, falls behind, so I see this appointment
as providing a new impetus towards restoring the name of Bedlington
Terriers as one of the clubs teams have to beat to win trophies. These
guys have a proven track record in winning, attracting the best players,
and also getting the most out of the players they have. I think this
is a very good appointment for Bedlington Terriers."
In an additional move which is sure to win universal favour amongst
Bedlington supporters, it has also been confirmed that iconic former
striker Dean Gibb will also return to Welfare Park in a coaching capacity.
Tom Wade speaks about
departure from Club
Terriers Online spoke with Tom Wade today, and
he was happy to share his thoughts about the end of his managerial
reign at Bedlington Terriers - which occurred after the defeat against
Washington on Saturday.
Tom expressed his deep disappointment that his association with the
Terriers had come to an end in this way, as he had hoped he would
have the opportunity to build the long term future of the club on
the pitch. "I'm proud of my time at this club, as having previously
managed big clubs such as Blyth and Gateshead I definitely see them
at a similar level with huge potential"
"I'm loath to be seen using the old 'injuries' excuse, but the
facts are that this season we never had a first choice eleven available
for selection. Player of last season Craig McFarlane has been out
since the opening day of the season, we lost Scott Marshall for long
periods and then absences of hugely important players such as James
Harmison and James Lang hurt us hard. Despite that we had been doing
quite well at times, although recent performances had been disappointing"
he added.
Despite his sudden exit from the Club, Wade was very keen to express
his thanks to those who had stayed behind the club through all the
difficult times; "in my 11 months at the helm, the supporters
have been absolutely first class, supporting through thick and thin
even at the lowest moments. The people who have kept the club running
on a day to day basis, providing the catering, manning the turnstiles,
etc. all deserve their share of the credit for making life easier
for the rest of us. All unsung heroes who should be acknowledged".
Most significantly he harboured no grudges towards the club, instead
wishing them all the best in the future and reiterating that Bedlington
Terriers should be challenging for the major honours again. "I'm
gutted that I could not be a part the continuing rebuilding of this
club, but I'm sure those driving this process have the best interests
of Bedlington Terriers at heart and I wish whoever follows me the
best of luck"
When asked if even at this very early stage he had considered his
next steps in the game, he revealed that one or two approaches had
already been made and that he would take his time until an offer eh
can't resist comes along.. Terriers Online would like to pay their
own thanks to Tom for his contribution during his time in charge,
and he can rightly hold his head up high despite leaving the club
in these circumstances.
On a related note, this website can also exclusively reveal that Club
Physio Mick Mangan has decided to leave the club after a meeting tonight.
Mick came to the club through Tom and the Club respects his decision
to leave and thanks him for his services in the last few months. For
the present time at least, Assistant Physio Emma Benjamin has decided
to remain at the Club.
Tom Wade Reign as Manager
comes to an end
Tom Wade dramatically left his post as Bedlington
manager shortly after his side's 2-0 defeat at home to Washington
on Saturday afternoon. After a long run of disappointing results and
performances, Wade and Bedlington Chairman Dave Holmes agreed that
he would leave the post by mutual consent. With Tom coming under increasing
pressure in recent weeks, it is understood that he had himself considered
his own position after this game, and it was subsequently agreed that
it would be in the interests of both parties that his reign as Bedlington
manager come to an end after less than 11 months at the helm.
Holmes revealed that all concerned felt the move was the best step
for both Bedlington and Tom, and paid tribute and paid thanks for
Tom's role in helping the Terriers beat the odds to avoid relegation
last season. "When Tom was appointed last Christmas, we were
marooned at the bottom of the table, losing games heavily week in
week out and seemingly written off as relegation fodder by all and
sundry"
"Although it took longer than anticipated for results to turn
for the better, we never again lost games by more than a couple of
goals, and of course we turned things round in dramatic fashion in
the final weeks of the season which ultimately saw us achieve survival
once Newcastle Blue Star committed themselves to the Unibond. Tom
earned our gratitude then for his role in this achievement, and it
is something we will always hold him in high regard for."
However, he reflected on the fact that recent times had perhaps demonstrated
that a change was required. "After a bright start to the season,
recent results and in particular performances have been poor. There
have been too many games in which we have underachieved against clubs
which, with no disrespect to them intended, victories were anticipated
but only defeats resulted."
"With Tom revealing that he was considering his own position,
it perhaps offered both of us an opportunity to start again with new
ideas and fresh challenges. He leaves Bedlington with our full thanks
and best wishes for the future in whatever role he returns to the
game in" Holmese added
Holmes also revealed that assistant manager Sam Kitchen and senior
player John Watson would have responsibility for team affairs until
a permanent successor can be appointed. The Club is now inviting interested
candidates to make contact with Secretary Lawrence Appleby, by ringing
07929 540835.
Appleby announces new
family friendly policy
Bedlington Terriers Secretary Lawrence Appleby revealed that he has
secured permission to allow children free admission to all Bedlington
League home games subject to one very basic condition. This is a gesture
to the local community to encourage more families to Welfare Park
to support the Terriers.
As from the next home game after discussions with the league and FA
children will be admitted free if accompanied by a paying adult, details
will be released to schools and the press. Also, any student producing
their union card will gain half price admission and again all Universities
will be contacted, these will apply to all future league home fixture.
New Vice-Chairman appointed
Bedlington Terriers FC are delighted to announce
that Keith Jewitt has accepted Chairman Dave Holmes invitation to
fill the Vice-Chairman post left vacant since Jim Tyler stepped down
due to ill-health. Holmes himself expressed his pleasure in finally
getting his man. "Keith has a wealth of experience in running
a football club at this level, having previously been Chairman at
local rivals Morpeth Town, and it's great news for Bedlington that
we now have his indisputable skills at our disposal."
Holmes acknowledges openly that the last 15 months have been a steep
learning curve for him, having had no previous experience at running
a football club. This appointment means that Keith will take over
more of the day to day responsibilities for running Bedlington Terriers,
allowing the Chairman to focus more on developing the club at a strategic
level, and also in helping to reestablish the football team as a force
again in the North-East non-league football scene.
Terriers Online understand that Mr Jewitt is equally delighted to
be involved at Bedlington, which he sees as an opportunity to both
be involved in, and help shape the future of, one of the most progressive
football clubs in the region.
More is sure to follow when Keith speaks to Terriers Online in the
very near future!
Defender hit by bereavement
Bedlington Terriers Chairman has expressed his condolences on behalf
of the club, to Martyn McGonigal, as his mother sadly passed away
this week.
Holmes said; "We are very much a family club with a great team
spirit, and I know that all at Bedlington Terriers have Martyn and
his family in their thoughts at this sad time". Bedlington Terriers
Online would like to echo the Chairman's comments, which was backed
up with an impeccably observed minutes silence held before the FA
Vase tie against Consett on Saturday.
Reserve Team Section
Expanded
With the news that the September fixtures are out for Bedlington Terriers
Reserve team's first season playing in the North Northumberland Second
Division, we are delighted to announce that the Official Website has
expanded its current coverage to give them their own section. When
you go to 'This Season' on the main menu, you will now see that the
'Reserves' option now expands into 3 new pages.
One includes a results/fixtures page, in a similar format of that
used for the first team. The North Northumberland League release their
fixtures month by month so this page will be added to throughout the
season.
The reserve team will be playing their home games at Welfare Park
when the Senior side are away from home or not playing that day, so
keep an eye on the fixtures and get yourselves along to support what
hopefully will be the future stars for Bedlington Terriers - they
deserve your support!!
Terriers Appoint New
Secretary
Bedlington Terriers search for a new Football Secretary was satisfied
far sooner than Chairman Dave Holmes could ever have expected, as
Lawrence Appleby was appointed to the post before the North Shields
game on Saturday. Appleby was Kit man at senior non-league side Hereford
United until earlier this year, ending an association with the club
lasting a quarter of a century.
Now managing a Domino's Pizza store in Gateshead, he has a long a
varied involvement in grassroots sport in the North East. He has previously
been a director, match secretary and commercial manager at Gateshead,
and in the early 1990's, he helped out Darlington Cleveland Bridge,
where he became secretary, team manager and held the Chairman's position
for a year.
Appleby was delighted to be offered and subsequently accept the role
at Bedlington. "I've had a break since I finished my role at
Hereford a few months ago and I was starting to look around for a
club to get involved in when I saw this post advertised in a regional
paper. Bedlington Terriers are obviously a very well known name in
non-league, both locally and nationally, and I relish the challenge
in helping Dave [Holmes] in his continuing drive to rebuild the club"
For his part, Holmes was equally as pleased to see such a key role
filled at last; and by a candidate with experience at clubs at a higher
level (and thus more demanding) than Bedlington, and who is also a
friend of League Chairman Mike Amos. "The club is screaming out
for some stability in certain roles, and I believe in Lawrence we
have found the man to provide that with regards to the football administration
side of the club. I think he will prove to be a huge asset to the
for Bedlington Terriers."
Holmes was also hoping to make further appointments in other roles
currently vacant at present, with the Matchday PA, Commercial Manager
and Press Officer positions all requiring to be filled.
Terriers seek programme
advertisers for the 2007/8 season.
With the new season almost upon us, Bedlington Terriers FC are welcoming
advertisers for the matchday programme. The programme won the award
of Most Improved last season and this will be built upon this year
and it is also planned to be produced in full colour.
Therefore, this is an excellent opportunity to get your local business
in front of our fans week in week out over the coming nine months.
The cost is £100 for a full page advert (A5 size) and £50
for a half page, other opportunities are available, such as sponsoring
individual pages, cover, etc..., please contact Neil Douglass on 07843
602392 to discuss this further.
If you or your company would like to appear in the programme over
the coming season, please contact Neil
Douglass who will be pleased to discuss your requirements with
you.
Club Statement on Secretary Position
An emergency Committee Meeting was held at Welfare Park tonight
to discuss the events of the weekend, which led to Stan Gate being
relieved of his Secretarial duties. Bedlington Terriers Chairman
Dave Holmes wanted to ensure that there was full agreement on the
decision taken. Holmes had undertaken an investigation to establish
the full facts of the matter, and then conducted a one-to-one interview
with Stan himself at a neutral location. Stan himself denied flatly
all allegations levelled against him in recent days and that he
wished to continue in his role.
Each Committee member was invited to voice their opinions, and the
outcome was unanimous that the decision to remove Stan from the
Secretary role be upheld, and that it was in the best interest of
both parties concerned to part company immediately, with the club
now urgently seeking a new Football Secretary. The Committee also
confirmed agreement with the original website statement, which Stan
had asked to be retracted under potential threat of legal action.
There is regret that this situation has arisen, but the interests
of Bedlington Terriers FC are the priority to the Committee, and
there was no doubt that the decision made is for the good of the
Club.
Mel Harmison
Testimonial, Saturday 14th July
This Saturday sees the eagerly anticipated tribute to a Bedlington
Terriers legend, when Mel Harmison hosts his Testimonial match at
Welfare Park Darlington FC are the visitors, and they will take
on Mel's Terriers Legends XI which will be comprised of many of
the names from their Championship-winning and Wembley sides.
This is a great opportunity for Bedlington supporters
to pay tribute to a man who has been associated with the club for
almost 30 years, and is now retiring from the games completely.
It's also a chance to welcome back some familiar names to Welfare
Park, who were involved in some of the Club's greatest days.
Mel has revealed that he expects to have a squad
of 24 players, including Terriers legends such as John Milner, Tommy
Ditchburn, Dean Gibb, Martin Kirkby, Warren Teasdale, Martin Pike,
Steve Boon, Micky Cross, Mark Cameron and many more. The action
doesn't end with this game though, as a singer has been booked for
the evening at the Terriers Clubhouse, and a high turnout is guaranteed
for the popular ex-Bedlington player, coach and manager.
Premier League Referee Mark Clattenburg will officiate
the game; he is familiar with many of the faces to feature, having
been a Northern League referee earlier in his career. "Mark
rang me to say he was looking forward to the game" said Mel,
"and I'm delighted that we got someone so highly regarded in
the game to referee this match".
"Bedlington are a club that will always remain
close to my heart, and I have seen some lows in recent years, but
these are more than cancelled out by the many highs we've lived
through. I'm really looking forward to seeing some old fiends on
Saturday, and I'm sure that the crowd will be up for seeing some
of the Terriers greatest players on show again at Welfare Park!"
he added.
A club spokesperson paid tribute to the significant
contribution made to Bedlington by one of the lesser-known members
of the famous Harmison sporting family. "Mel has been an integral
part of this club for the best part of three decades, and he has
had an important role in our successes over that period"
He added; "This should be a fitting send-of
for him, and we encourage as many possible to come along and show
their appreciation. Mel doesn't expect to make anything out of his
day, that isn't his motivation - he just wants to end his association
with Bedlington Terriers with a bang, and we hope a bumper crowd
will be his reward."
Admission prices are £4 adults, £2 for
children and concessions - there will also be a programme on sale
to mark this special event. Kick off is at 3pm.
FA Cup
and FA Vase draws Announced
The first 3 qualifying rounds of the FA Cup, Trophy and Vase were
announced by the Football Association this morning (Monday). Bedlington
actually already knew their opening FA Cup tie due to the blundering
guardians of our national game accidentally posting the draw on
their website on Friday. The remainder of that day was spent rather
busily requesting websites to remove published fixtures!
In the FA Cup, Bedlington make a less than welcome return to West
Auckland, a team who racked up a glut of goals against the Terriers
last season, including 9 in 3 games for striker Matthew Moffat.
This time Moffat will not be a threat, as he is now signed at Consett.
However, our paths may still cross yet in FA Competition - more
of which later.
Success in this tie will see another away game at Wakefield, who
have struggled in recent seasons. Relegated to Unibond Division
One in the 2005/06 season, they flirted with a second successive
drop last season.
Success again, and we could face any of four teams at Welfare Park,
with local rivals Morpeth Town figuring amongst them. A tough ask
getting to this stage, but our young side proved in the final month
of the season what they were truly capable of. Add to that the quality
signings made so far, and you just never know, especially if we
force a replay at Bedlington.
Into the FA Vase, and the Terriers were given an exemption until
the 2nd Qualifying Round, but they face again a possible Cup confrontation
with Morpeth should they see off North Shields in their 1st Qualifying
Round tie. Should we prevail, then a home tie against Consett awaits,
and a warm welcome to our friend Mr Moffat....!
Obviously, these draws have an immediate impact on our scheduled
league programme, as can be seen below, with a knock effect should
we be successful in the respective competitions, and/or replays
be required.
FA CUP 2007/08
Extra Preliminary Round
West Auckland Town (a)
Tie will be played on Saturday 18th August, meaning
our game at Home to Dunston Fed that day will have to be rearranged.
If a replay is needed then our midweek game at Whitley Bay on the
Tuesday night will also be rescheduled.
Preliminary Round
Winners v Wakefield (a)
Tie to be played Saturday 1st September. If successful
in previous round, we currently have a blank weekend then so no
rearrangement is required.
1st Qualifying Round
Winners v Winterton Rangers or Armthorpe Welfare or Morpeth Town
or Seaham Red Star (h)
Tie to be played Saturday 15th September, If successful
in previous round, our game at Home to Bishop Auckland that day
will have to be rearranged.
FA VASE 2007/08
2nd Qualifying Round
Morpeth Town or North Shields (a)
Tie to be played Saturday 22nd September. We currently
have a blank weekend then so no rearrangement is required. If a
replay is required, then our midweek game at Morpeth Town on the
Tuesday night will be rescheduled.
1st Round Proper
Winners v Consett (h)
Tie to be played Saturday 6th October. If successful
in previous round, then we currently have a blank weekend then so
no rearrangement is required. If a replay is required, then our
midweek game at Durham City on the Tuesday night will be rescheduled.
Another
New Signing/Lang Finally Commits
Bedlington Terriers swelled their ranks by another two this weekend,
as James Lang finally agreed to stay at Welfare Park another season
and Rob Huntley signed forms. Lang, who has been at Bedlington for
the last few years save for a short spell at rivals Morpeth Town
last season, has been cursed with an array of injuries in his time
at the Club.
He informed the club that he wanted to satisfy himself that he could
regain full fitness before committing himself, and Tom Wade is delighted
that the midfielder has finally felt confident enough to sign ahead
of the new campaign. "A fully fit James Lang is like a brand
new player for the Club. He's an exceptional player who is one of
the best around when fully match fit. I hope we see the Lang of
old this season as he will have much to offer in a side I hope will
surprise a few in the League this coming campaign."
Rob Huntley is a player that Wade knows well, and has been tracking
for some time. After starting his career as a junior at Sunderland
where he spent 4 years, most recently he was part of the Tow Law
side which had Wade as Assistant Manager before he took the hotseat
at Bedlington, and the Terriers manager is relieved to get the player
signed on at last. "I first came across Rob when I was in charge
at Gateshead and we played a friendly at Horden. He was outstanding,
running the midfield that day, and I quickly persuaded him to sign
for me."
"I had inherited a struggling side at Gateshead as the Club
were in financial dire straits at the time and threatened with relegation.
Rob was one of the players instrumental in our recovery to safety
that season. He epitomises my kind of player: hard-working, team
player and good on the ball. I think he's a tremendous acquisition
for Bedlington.
A Terriers hero calling it a day
By Stuart Rained, The Journal (Jun 30 2007)
A lesser-known member of one of the North-East's most famous sporting
families ends his 27-year association with Northern League Bedlington
Terriers next month.
And it speaks volumes for Mel Harmison's reputation
in local football circles that there is no shortage of high-profile
names willing to help him mark the occasion.
A man who played for, coached and managed the Terriers
has been awarded a testimonial against Darlington on July 14, his
last game before retiring from the club he has served since a teenager.
Although he admits it was a hard decision to leave
Welfare Park, the uncle of Bedlington captain James Harmison and
Durham cricketers Stephen and Ben, Mel is pleased to have done the
club one last service before bowing out.
Mel was a reluctant Bedlington manager during the
first half of last season but is proud to have rescued them from
relegation. Last year they were £38,000 in debt and without
a single player. A last-minute rescue package in August, followed
by an arson attack on the clubhouse, was only the end of the beginning.
"Being manager was more put on me than by choice,"
said the 45-year-old. "I was going to retire last year but
with the trouble the club was in I said I'd leave it a year and
try to keep us up so I could bow out gracefully. "I wanted
to keep the club in the division, which we did. That was a miracle
in itself. We didn't have a single player on the books when I started
and it was probably the biggest challenge of my career."
"There was all the financial trouble too. The council stuck
their necks out to help the club out as best they could and deserve
a real pat on the back for that. Last season there were times when
I didn't enjoy it. We were getting beaten six or 7-1 by teams we
used to beat before we got out of the dressing room. But we knuckled
down, got some good players in and turned it around. I got good
help from a few experienced players. It was a big plus when I got
James back. Dean Gibb, James Laing, John Milner and Anthony Chapman
also helped us out. They're all winners."
Harmison says the bad times have been far outnumbered by the good.
It says much for his dedication to the club that his highlight did
not even involve the left-back. "We came from being quite a
small non-League side and to one of the most respected clubs in
the country," he said. "Wembley in 1999 was the highlight
for me. I broke my arm leading up to the game and wasn't able to
make it into the squad but I trained on the pitch. We also won the
championship, the second of five on the trot, so it was a fantastic
season. They say every dog has its day, and that time was certainly
the Terriers'."
The secret to their success was, he believes, forged off the field.
"We were probably the worst organised team ever but never seemed
to get beaten," he said. "It was the way we gelled. You
could write a book about some of the tales. The atmosphere, the
travelling to the games, everything was brilliant. We would beat
teams we shouldn't even have been on the same pitch with.
"I signed for Bedlington when I was 18 and I've been there
ever since. It's a big family club. I grew up with a lot of the
players and I've always had a lot of respect for the managers I've
worked with. The club's always been in my heart. I'll always be
a supporter. I had two good offers from clubs who wanted me to do
a bit of coaching and a bit of management for them last season,
but I turned them down. I wouldn't leave for any other club. I'm
the manager of a golf complex (Percy Wood Golf and Country Retreat,
who are sponsoring the game) and I've got a young daughter. It's
time to spend a bit more time with the family."
Former Newcastle United players Ian Bogie and Jamie McClen have
agreed to face the Quakers, and other high-profile ex-Magpies are
in the pipeline. England commitments are likely to keep Stephen
Harmison away, though his cricket-mad uncle is hoping to have all-rounder
Ben at centre-back.
Leeds United were originally lined up as opposition, but when the
turmoil surrounding the fallen giants cast their participation into
doubt, Darlington, York City and Hartlepool United offered to stand
in. Premiership official Mark Clattenburg referees the 3pm kick-off.
"It's nice because in sport you play to win but I've always
been brought up to play the proper way as well," says Harmison.
"It just shows if you stay loyal to a club you will get your
rewards in the end."
Terriers
finally get their man!
Terriers moved to boost their ranks by finally signing striker Lee
Hamilton after waiting on tenterhooks for the last two weeks. Hamilton,
brother of long-term injured Terriers defender Paul, has been a
Bedlington target for some time, and the Club are delighted to have
finally got their man.
"We've tracked Lee since the end of the season, and the fact
that he spoke to and ultimately turned down offers from Dunston
and Benfield speaks volumes about what we are trying to do at Bedlington.
Hopefully he act as a catalyst to other players we are currently
in discussion with, as the new season comes ever closer" said
a Club spokesman.
Lee spent last season at Tow Law, and represents a welcome boost
to our forward line, and provides much needed support to the likes
of Alex Benjamin - who until Wayne Eastway joined the ranks late
in the season, was our sole out and out striker. The Club is also
in advanced discussions with a defender and a midfielder, and is
confident that they will secure their services in due course. James
Lang, the only player remaining from last season not to have committed
himself one way or another for the season ahead, is continuing his
training at Welfare Park. A player seemingly cursed with injury,
Lang is trying to attain full fitness for the first time in several
seasons before he signs on the dotted line for the Terriers.
Meanwhile, Tom Wade moved to appoint Sam Kitchen as his Assistant
for the campaign ahead, providing the vital support and back-up
every manager needs in running the football side of a club. Hugely
experienced, and greatly respected within the dressing room, Kitchen
will undoubtedly be a big asset to the Terriers in his new role.
Mel
Harmison Testimonial Saturday 14th July
Bedlington Terriers are delighted to announce that they have secured
the services of Darlington FC for the testimonial of ex-player and
manager Mel Harmison. A day of celebration and thanks to Mel for
his 30 year association with the Terriers will be held at their
Welfare Park ground on Saturday 14th July. Leeds United were originally
hoped to be the opposition for the Terriers on this day, but continuing
uncertainty about whether they would be able to field a side meant
that the club has had to work hard to find a late replacement.
Darlington FC, despite their own busy schedule in July, have agreed
to send a team to Bedlington on this day. Bedlington Terriers Chairman
Dave Holmes was quick to heap praise on the Darlington hierarchy
for the efforts they have made to help us out for such an important
day for Mel. "Once the decision was taken that we had to find
alternative opposition for Mel's testimonial, Darlington could not
have been more helpful in ensuring that this tribute to a long-term
servant of the Club was a fitting one."
Holmes was keen to stress his thanks to Darlington Manager Dave
Penney, Youth Team Manager Mick Tait and Company Secretary Lisa
Charlton for their roles in making this possible at such short notice.
Such was the willingness of the North East senior sides to step
into the breach, that both York City and Hartlepool United also
made offers to send a team on this day. Further thanks go to Nick
Bassett and Maureen Smith respectively for their much appreciated
gestures.
The game, which it's understood will be officiated by top Premier
League referee Mark Clattenburg, will kick off at 3pm, but there
will be more entertainment on show throughout the afternoon. More
details will follow when available.
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