News Stories

Historic News Stories

Pilot Field development feasibility study update - 31/5/10

Dave Nessling has kindly provided an update on the Club's ongoing negotiations with Hastings Borough Council over the potential redevelopment of the Pilot Field.

The results of the feasibility study, including plans and costings, were presented to the Council at a meeting on 19 April. The results were warmly received by representatives from the Council, with the study including the following proposals for a phased redevelopment of the Pilot Field.

• Construction of a new main stand on the grass bank side of the ground, to include changing rooms, and all facilities necessary to meet Football Conference and Football League grading requirements.
• Slight repositioning of the pitch towards the Elphinstone Road End of the ground.
• Installation of a new, four column, floodlighting system.
• Construction of a larger, terraced, Cole Warren stand at the Wood End of the ground, accommodating the repositioning of the pitch.
• Creation of an off-road parking area behind the new Cole Warren stand, and on a split-level basis where the existing main stand is currently located, with access through to Elphinstone Road.
• Construction of new turnstiles, refreshment facilities, and toilet blocks, in various areas of the ground.
• Construction of a floodlit, 3G surface, five-a-side pitch.
• Demolition of the existing main stand, toilet block, main refreshment bar, and Clubhouse, the latter of which would effectively be rehoused within the new main stand.

As you can imagine, the cost of the above is considerable, so it was sensible to examine what could be saved by slightly amending the scheme. The proposed alterations were discussed at length, and the following amendments to the proposal were agreed, with plans redrawn and costings recalculated accordingly.

• Limit the off-road parking to one level only, where the current main stand is situated.
• Leave the pitch in its present position, which would allow the new, four column, floodlighting system to be installed straight away, whilst retaining the same amount of space as is presently available.
• Demolish the Elphinstone Road End stand, replacing it with a new covered terrace, adjacent to the pitch.
• Input new boundary fencing behind the new Elphinstone Road End stand, beyond which new off-road parking and turnstiles could be constructed.
• Abandon the intended parking area behind the proposed new Cole Warren Stand.

Even with these amendments, the cost of the overall scheme is still very high, and is not being helped by the sloping nature of the extremities of the Pilot Field site, which forces the inclusion of costly retaining walls in the plans, to accommodate some of the proposed redevelopment. Demolition costs are also high, but are unavoidable given the necessity to replace the existing main stand.

Since the presentation of the feasibility study in April, the balance of power within the Council has shifted from Conservative to Labour, and the new incumbents have requested a meeting to discuss the matter in further detail. Dave Nessling is currently awaiting confirmation of a date for that meeting, but the Council at least now have a definitive proposal, with costings, for the redevelopment of the Pilot Field, which they can consider and compare against the likely cost of building a new, purpose-built, community stadium elsewhere in the Borough.

For the time being, it remains a question of ‘watching this space’ then. The Conservative Group on the Council were entirely supportive in wanting to see an improved, or new, stadium for the Borough, and the Club is most appreciative that the production of a feasibility study on the subject was sanctioned. Now though, there is a different political power base with which the Club must engage, but one highly promising factor is that, within its election manifesto, the Hastings Labour Party stated that they wished to, "work with Hastings United to help them obtain the improved stadium they need". The Club will of course be pleased to continue working with the Council towards that very outcome.

United to place emphasis on Youth in 2010/11 - 10/5/10

The Club has revealed that, from the start of the 2010/11 season, it will be a restructuring its playing resources, which will result in it not running a Reserve side in the conventional sense. There will still be two Under 18 teams however, both under the overall jurisdiction of First Team manager Tony Dolby, with the senior Under 18s side being managed by Sean Ray, effectively acting as the Club's Reserves, although they will still compete in the East Division of the Sussex Youth League. This side will be sponsored by Focus SB Engineering, who have been the Reserves' sponsor for the past two seasons, and the Club is indebted to Managing Director Roger Kemp for his continued support.

Darren Smith has decided to the move on from the Club with his Under 18s B side, who competed in the Crowborough League during the 2009/10 campaign, but Clive Raines will remain as manager of last season’s double winning Under 16s side, as they take the step up to Under 18s level. Everyone at the Club would like to wish him well in his new status within the senior set-up.

Dolby himself will be looking to build on last season's progress in the Ryman League, and will hope to gather a stronger squad, and to sustain a promotion challenge in the Premier Division next season. He will once more seek to use the dual registration system for squad players to regain match fitness where necessary, while giving every opportunity for young local players to impress within the Under 18s framework. Any players wishing to join the U's should, in the first instance, contact Sean Ray via the Club Office on 01424 444635.

The Club would like to thank Mark Stapley and John Masters for their efforts in managing the Reserve side last season, and wish them both well for the future.

U's delighted to unveil new main sponsor - 16/4/10

Hastings United Football Club is delighted to announce that its new main Club sponsor for the 2010/11 season will be Hastings Local, a division of the nationally known insurance firm Hastings Direct. The company is very well known as a provider of car and home insurance, and is looking to increase and improve its links with local communities. The link-up with Hastings' most prominent sports club suits both organisations well.

Hastings United chairman Dave Walters commented, "We are delighted that such a well known company, not to mention the area’s largest employer, has agreed to be our new main sponsor for next season. We aim to work with Hastings Local, to help them to increase their business in the local area, and we are grateful that they have acknowledged the advances we have made as a club in recent years, and have decided to support us in our bid to maintain this. I would also like to sincerely thank our outgoing sponsor, Smart Property, for the invaluable support that they have given the Club over the last two years, and we hope to maintain links with them in the future as well."

Euan McDonald, head of Hastings Local said, "Hastings Local is delighted to become associated with Hastings United. It is clear that the football club is going places, and so too is Hastings Local. We are committed to our local community, and to becoming an integral part of the community that we serve in East Sussex."

Hastings Local is the new, and latest, division of Bexhill insurance firm Hastings Direct, and Euan is amazed at the public response to the venture, which opened in February. It shares the same offices as Hastings Direct, which employs more than 1,000 people. "Basically, Hastings Local is the baby of Hastings Direct. But in the coming months and years, it is going to boom, big time", he said. "The concept behind Hastings Local is simple. While a great deal of business is now undertaken online, our findings suggest that many people still want to book their insurance face-to-face, and that is what Hastings Local allows people to do, to come to the Hastings Direct offices, and meet the Hastings Local staff." The vision behind Hastings Local is to open a series of shops around the south-east, initially five. "We decided to open our first shop inside our main office, but the others will be in town centres", said Euan. "We are currently finalising plans as to where our next shops will be situated, but we have some really exciting plans."

Hastings-based Jodee Smithers has joined Hastings Local as branch manager, from town rivals Swinton Insurance. "Hastings Local has only just been born, but it is going to develop and grow in the coming months", he said.

Hastings Local can be found in Collington Avenue, and is open from 9.00am to 5.30pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 9.00am to 7.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and from 10.00am to 2.00pm an Saturdays. Their telephone number is 01424 738700. And Euan's message to United supporters is simple. "Come and try us, book your insurance with us, whatever type you are looking for. Give us a try!", he urges.

Pilot Field development feasibility study update - 4/4/10

Dave Nessling has kindly provided the following statement about his ongoing negotiations with the Council.

"As many Hastings United supporters may be aware, I have been assisting the Club in its negotiations with Hastings Borough Council, over the possibility of its relocation to a new, purpose built, stadium elsewhere in the Borough, or alternatively, the development of the Pilot Field, which has been the subject of a feasibility study, pleasingly commissioned by the council itself.

In addition, I suspect that supporters are also aware that the Club requires new floodlights, to replace the antiquated system that currently exists at the Pilot Field, and many of you have already given most generously to the Club’s Floodlight Appeal Fund. The Council too have been supportive, in discussing the Club’s urgent requirement for new floodlights, and discussions on this topic are set to continue, in conjunction with a debate on all matters relating to the Pilot Field development feasibility plan, which I anticipate should be ready for presentation to the Council in the next week or so.

I know that a considerable number of supporters travelled to Dartford Football Club on 27 March, to give what I witnessed as great support to the lads. This allowed you to also see the super, purpose built, Princes Park Stadium, and its ancillary facilities, that were built by Dartford Borough Council for Dartford Football Club and the local community. I hope you agree that it would be great to one day see Hastings United operating from a stadium with similar first class facilities for its players, fans and the local community as a whole. Such a stadium should then of course produce greater income streams for the Club, which should hopefully then lead to a higher standard of football eventually being played in Hastings.

So that you are all aware of how things currently stand on the Pilot Field development feasibility study, and the floodlights issue, I am pleased to provide you with an update as follows.

FEASIBILITY STUDY

As advised above, I hope that the feasibility study will be complete in a week or so. Once complete, it will be presented to the Council, who will consider the possibilities for development of the Pilot Field in terms of cost, against the cost of building a new, purpose built, stadium elsewhere in the Borough. There will be many other considerations for the Council, including how either scheme could, or would, be funded, and what impact either scheme might have on local residents and the community in general. When all of their considerations are concluded, I would hope that they will perhaps come up with a strategic plan for taking things forward.

So that you have a flavour for what a developed Pilot Field, on a phased basis say, might eventually include, I can advise that the feasibility study will detail such as the following.

• Off-road parking for over two hundred vehicles.
• Moving the pitch towards Elphinstone Road, to release land at the Cole Warren Stand end.
• Main stand on grass bank side, to incorporate social club, function suites, hospitality boxes, changing rooms, offices, medical room, etc.
• Terraced stands with refreshment and toilet facilities, demolishing the one in front of the existing main stand, with a second built as part of a new and extended Cole Warren Stand.
• Additional turnstile entry and exit blocks.
• Floodlit 3G five-a-side football court.

FLOODLIGHTS

The Football Foundation has already sanctioned the provision of a grant, although this was on the basis of a six column floodlight system. The feasibility study shows that the likely preferred option is a four column floodlight system, with the pitch moved about seven meters closer to Elphinstone Road. The Council are aware of the preferred option, but obviously need to see the finalised feasibility study before they can comment further. If they decide that development of the Pilot Field is the route that they wish to follow in the future, it is likely that the pitch would need to be moved fairly soon, in order that a four column floodlight system could be installed in the right place, to accommodate both the moved pitch, and any future development. Quotes for the installation of a four column floodlight system have been obtained, and these will be submitted to the Football Foundation as and when it is considered appropriate.

I very much hope that this keeps everyone in the loop as far as ongoing developments are concerned, and thanks again to all those who have supported the Floodlight Appeal Fund to date, and to the Council for considering the development possibilities."

Senior Cup blunder causes frustration all round - 16/2/10

Hastings United Football Club would like to make clear the circumstances surrounding the playing of an ineligible player in the Sussex Senior Cup third round replay against Lewes on Wednesday 3 February.

In this game, new signing Ross Treleaven made his first start for the Club, after signing from Worthing, whilst remaining on dual registration with Eastbourne Borough. The Club's secretary, Tony Cosens, is very experienced, and as such, knew that it was vital to make sure that Treleaven was not cup tied for the Lewes game. The only certain way of doing this is to check with the regulatory body in charge of the competition, the Sussex County Football Association (SCFA), and this he duly did. The Club would like to make it perfectly clear that it was given the go-ahead to play Treleaven in the game, having been advised by the SCFA that he had played for neither Worthing nor Eastbourne Borough in the earlier rounds of the competition.

It now transpires that this information given was incorrect, and as a result, the Club has been ordered to replay the game. It is felt that this raises a number of issues, not least relating to the integrity of the competition. If clubs cannot rely on the relevant Football Association giving correct advice as to player eligibility, who can be relied upon? The Club has some sympathy for the SCFA, who were themselves in receipt of misleading information concerning Treleaven, however, the Club appears to have suffered through no fault of its own.

United and Lewes Football Clubs are both unhappy with this situation, but have no say in the matter. As a gesture of goodwill towards supporters of both clubs, admission will be free of charge for the rearranged game on 16 March. The Club would like to take this opportunity to apologise to supporters of both sides, but very much hope that it is clear that this unfortunate situation has not arisen due to any fault on the part of either club.

Grant award sees floodlights take another step forward - 7/2/10

The Club is very pleased to announce that it has been successful in its application for a grant towards the purchase of new floodlights at the Pilot Field.

The Football Stadia Improvement Fund (FSIF) will be prepared to offer up to £16,567 towards the cost of the project. However, this offer will expire after 6 July 2010, and the Club therefore now has a definite timescale, within which to raise the necesssary additional funding.

To date, in the region of £13,500 has been raised, but it will take anything between £12,000 to £17,000 more, to complete the project. The Club is currently talking to the companies that provided the original quotations, regarding these timescales, and also with a view to them refining their quotes in certain areas. It is hoped that the final figure required will be closer to £12,000, without sacrificing anything necessary to make the project a success.

The Club is enormously grateful to everyone who has been involved in the fundraising thus far, and in particular, the Supporters' Club and Youth Section. A big effort is now needed to secure the additional funds required, and the Club would like to ask everyone with an interest in the future success of Hastings United to do what they can, whether in the form of specific donations, or by getting involved in the various fundraising activities that will be arranged over the next few months.

Any offers of assistance should initially be directed to the Club office on 01424 444635, or by email to club@hastingsunitedfc.co.uk.

Council agree to new study on revised stadium plans - 3/1/10

As 2010 gets underway, the Club finds itself in a difficult position with respect to the ongoing quest to fund new floodlights at the Pilot Field. The Football Foundation is pushing for a date, by which the Club will have raised its own stake of £26,000 or thereabouts, which is necessary for the project to proceed, and for the Club to receive a grant for the remaining balance. Over £13,000 has been raised thus far, which is a fantastic effort of course, but it is still some way short of the target figure, and it is naturally tricky to put a timescale on when the remaining funds might be available, the fundraising effort having understandably slowed of late.

It is now some while since Dave Walters first approached Hastings Borough Council (HBC) with a proposal to relocate the Club to a new, purpose built community stadium. After consistently indicating their support for such a project for two and a half years, HBC changed its stance midway through 2009, advising that it was no longer considered viable, particularly in light of the current economic climate. this despite making United's relocation a manifesto pledge, and requesting a business plan from the Club on the matter. Throughout the process, the Club had made every effort to maintain regular contact with HBC leader Peter Pragnell, and his cabinet colleague Peter Finch, so it was extremely disappointing that neither of them had the courtesy to personally convey HBC's decision, opting to instruct one of their officers to send the Club a short and blunt letter instead. At that point, Dave Walters decided to take a step back from any further negotiations, with Dave Nessling continuing the dialogue on the Club's behalf. A former United Chairman himself, Dave was involved in a similarly unsuccessful relocation project some fifteen or so years ago, and the Club remains at the rapidly decaying Pilot Field to this day. For example, the recent cold weather has caused some damage to the tarmac in front of the main stand, but the Club's ability to carry out the necessary repairs will very much depend on the indicative cost.

Dave Nessling has made some progress in obtaining an agreement from HBC to fund a feasibility study on the possibility of HBC redeveloping the Pilot Field, as opposed to ultimately relocating the Club. This study, which is to be undertaken by architects appointed by HBC, but under Dave's recommendation, is due to commence early this month, and will focus on the assessment and costing of development plans prepared by Dave, who will assist the architects with the project. These plans include moving the pitch closer to Elphinstone Road, building new stands nearer the pitch to include social, corporate and refreshment facilities, and installing a floodlit training area and off-road parking. Once the feasibility study has been completed, it will be presented to HBC, who have intimated that the potential cost will be weighed up against the cost of building a new stadium at an alternative site.

Dave has also discussed the Club's floodlight issues with HBC, who have been advised that, in view of the urgent requirement for new lights at the Pilot Field, a decision is needed as soon as possible on whether HBC would prefer to support the development or relocation plans. Dave has also enquired as to what HBC can do to assist the Club with the new floodlights, providing details of the type of lights needed and their required positioning, and he has also advised HBC that the Football Foundation is unlikely to provide the Club with any grant funding until HBC's intentions become clear. The Club awaits a response to Dave's submissions to HBC with great interest.

Although it is promising that Dave has made some progress in his negotiations, the Club must remain sceptical about the likelihood of HBC offering the substantial funding that will be required to develop the Pilot Field, whatever the results of the feasibility study. The Club has already suggested a logical means, by which the new stadium project could have paid for itself, whereby HBC sell the dilapidated site at The Firs to produce the necessary funding, but HBC have remained curiously reluctant to consider this option. Having obtained details under the Freedom of Information Act, the Club now understands the reason for this reluctance. and may well have to consider putting the full facts into the public domain if it becomes clear that the feasibility study has simply been another delaying tactic, and an example of HBC merely paying the Club 'lip service' on what is undoubtedly an issue of grave importance to United's future.

Whatever the final outcome may be, Dave Nessling's considerable efforts on the Club's behalf are very much appreciated, and it is wonderful to have someone of his standing and experience providing the Club with such valuable assistance on specific projects, as well as advice on a number of other general matters.

United lend a hand to neighbours Westfield - 23/9/09

It was shocking to hear of the fire at Westfield Football Club's Parish Field ground last Sunday morning, which destroyed their clubhouse, and some of their changing room facilities as well.

With there being no game at the Pilot Field this coming Saturday, the Club has been pleased to offer Westfield free use of the ground instead, in order that they can stage their John O'Hara League Cup tie against County League Division One opponents Wick. Having gratefully accepted the offer, Westfield's match will proceed with a 3.00pm kick off, and admission prices will be £4 for adults, and £2 for concessions, including children under sixteen.

The bar and tea bar facilities will be open and, if United supporters not travelling with the Reserves to Pagham would still like their football fix on Saturday afternoon, Westfield would certainly appreciate some additional support, at what is an extremely difficult time for them.

The Club has also discussed with Westfield, the possibility of staging a friendly fixture between our two sides, with all gate receipts being donated to the Parishioners' new clubhouse fund. This game has now been confirmed for next Monday evening, 28 September, with a 7.45pm kick off. Admission prices will £3 for adults, £2 for concessions, and £1 for Under 18s.

Everyone at United would like to extend their best wishes to Westfield, and hope that they will be able to quickly bounce back from this devastating event.

United's Golf Day auction items - 16/9/09

Ahead of the Club's Golf Day at Cooden Golf Club on 30 September, please see below a list of the items, which are to be auctioned during the evening. If anybody would like to place a bid for any particular item, but will not be present on the day itself, please email your name and bid to the website address, so that the details can be forwarded to Club Chairman, Dave Walters.

First, these are the main auction items.

• Tea for two at the House of Commons, kindly donated by Michael Foster MP
• A round for four at Dane Hill Golf Club, kindly donated by Clive Galbraith of Green Campbell Fisk
• A signed Manchester United football
• A bottle of whisky signed by the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, kindly donated by Michael Foster MP
• A presentation montage of England captain John Terry (£120)
• A 1966 World Cup Final programme, signed by Sir Geoff Hurst, and framed with other photos from the final (£140)
• An official England 2008 Test Match shirt, signed by the entire Ashes winning squad (£300)
• A 2009/10 replica Chelsea shirt, signed by this season's squad, including John Terry, Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba, etc (£280)

And these are the silent auction items.

• A signature presentation of Liverpool defender Glen Johnson
• A mini cricket bat, signed by England's winning Ashes captain Andrew Strauss
• A signature presentation of Manchester United striker Michael Owen
• An unsigned 20x30 canvas of Muhammad Ali
• A signature presentation of legendary singer Tom Jones
• An Only Fools And Horses presentation, signed by Rodney Trotter actor Nicholas Lyndhurst
• Four 6x4 Arsenal legends photos, mounted together, and signed by Arsene Wenger, Patrick Vieira, Tony Adams and Thierry Henry
• A Football Factory photo montage, signed by Danny Dyer
• A signed photo presentation of former Chelsea and Italy striker Gianfranco Zola
• A signed 12x8 photo of Snow Patrol
• A signed photo of former Spurs and England striker Teddy Sheringham
• A signed limited edition print of former Spurs and England striker Jimmy Greaves

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Floodlight planning consent granted at last - 8/9/09

The Club has finally received planning permission from Hastings Borough Council for the proposed new floodlights at the Pilot Field, albeit with certain provisos, which will hopefully not prove too onerous to comply with.

The inspection of the existing floodlights has also been carried out now, and it is pleasing to announce that the provisions, which were put in place to maximise the chances of passing the test, were indeed successful. The Club would particularly like to thank Mike Loetz of M & S Electrical, and Tony Hart of Musco Ltd, for their advice and practical assistance in ensuring this successful outcome.

This does not mean that the floodlight issue is at an end of course, and it is essential that the various fundraising initiatives be maintained, in order to ultimately provide the new lights at the appropriate time. To date, around £11,000 has been raised, which is a terrific achievement in itself, not least because it has been done during a time of economic difficulty, and the Club would once again like to thank everyone who has been involved thus far. However, at least a further £15,000 still needs to be raised, and this figure assumes that a 40% grant from the Football Foundation can be obtained, the maximum available for such a project.

The next event in aid of the appeal is the Club's golf day on 30 September. This will be hosted by Cooden Golf Club, and will include coffee, bacon rolls, eighteen holes of golf and a three course evening meal, along with entertainment provided by comedian Adger Brown, an auction and a raffle, all for a cost of £75 per person. Tickets for the evening only are also available for £30 per person.

If you would like to enter a team of four, or as an individual to make up a team, please contact the Club on 01424 444635 or club@hastingsunitedfc.co.uk.

Former Chairman raises questions for Hastings Council - 23/8/09

A former Chairman of the Club has written an open letter to the Hastings Observer, asking some interesting questions of Hastings Borough Council, in light of the Council's decision to close the door on plans for a new stadium and sporting facilities in the town. David Nessling, also a former goalkeeper at the Club, and the father of current keeper Greg Nessling, has also provided some facts regarding the history of the lease, and how the Club came to be fully responsible for the upkeep of the stadium.

Many thanks to David for also forwarding his letter to the Club, and for allowing it to be reproduced in this afternoon's matchday programme, and on the website.

"As a former Chairman of Hastings Town Football Club (now known as Hastings United Football Club), and with continuing, particularly football, and sports in general, involvement, I have been reading with interest the articles and letters that have been published in the Hastings & St Leonards Observer, in connection with sports facilities in general and, in particular, in respect of the possibility of a new community stadium being developed in the Hastings area. This all seems like history repeating itself, as I still have copies of all the correspondence between the Club and the Council from back in the early to mid-nineties, in which the Council was spinning a good game then about, either upgrading the Pilot Field, or developing a community stadium, but as now, they failed to follow through on their spin.

There is no doubt the sporting fraternity and public of Hastings needs its Council to cut out the spin and produce the budget and finance required to introduce improved, refurbished and, particularly, new sporting facilities, such including a badly needed, new, or refurbished leisure centre, with competition specification swimming pool, and, either development of a new community stadium with ancillary facilities, or, at the very least, the implementation of a well planned upgrade to the facilities at the now ancient, but still well liked by many, Pilot Field stadium (outline sketch proposals and written back-up for such already submitted to Council representatives, but no response forthcoming).

On reading some of the published material of late, I have found some of the content somewhat inaccurate, especially in historical terms, and particularly, I have noted on various websites, that people seem confused, for instance, over how Hastings United Football Club, tenants of the Pilot Field stadium, have come to be in a position whereby it has the onerous responsibility of having a full repairing lease for the Hastings Borough Council owned Pilot Field stadium.

In view of the above, it appears to me that the following clarification and historical information should be put out into the public domain, and Hastings Borough Council should answer any questions raised fully and without spin.

Hastings Town F.C. entered into a long term lease with Hastings Borough Council, to take over the tenancy of the Pilot Field in July 1985, on the demise of Hastings United F.C. This lease included the areas known as the Pilot Field, and the Club's pre-existing tenancy area at The Firs (later taken over under a new lease with the Council by St Leonards F.C.). The lease included that, within twelve months, the Club had to implement considerable repairs to the Pilot Field, and the Club did this to an overall cost to the Club of about £200,000. In return for undertaking the repairs, the Club's lease included such as the following:

• That the Club had no responsibility whatsoever for any constructional maintenance required to be undertaken to the main grandstand, this being the responsibility of Hastings Borough Council.
• That Hastings Borough Council renovate and seed the playing area at the end of each playing season.
• That Hastings Borough Council cut the grass banking twice each year, and apply a growth retardant on an annual basis.

On numerous occasions over the years, the Council approached myself about the possibility of the Club taking over full repairing responsibility for the overall Pilot Field site, including the 1922 built main grandstand. This was always refused on an immediate basis. In the early 1990s, the Council had to spend between £100,000 and £150,000 to repair the concrete structure of the main grandstand. This made them even more conscious that the grandstand was a costly noose round their neck. When I left the Club in 1998, the content of the original 1985 lease remained unchanged.

In March 1999, the Club went into Administration, being discharged from Administration in October 1999. In July 1999, the Club entered into a Corporate Voluntary Arrangement, coming out of this in March 2002.

When the Club went into Administration, which resulted in new owners eventually coming in, the new owners had to speak to the Council about the granting of a new lease. The Council were only prepared to agree the issue of a new lease, if it was on a full repairing basis. The new owners therefore found themselves in a position whereby, if they wished to keep football going at the Pilot Field for the benefit of the people of the Hastings area, something the Council appeared uninterested in, then they had no alternative but to go along with the Council's full repairing lease requirement. The Firs area was not included in the new lease. The Council therefore achieved their long standing aim of unloading their responsibility for any maintenance to the Pilot Field site, particularly the main grandstand, and now they are able to use this as a barrier to them even considering the allocation of monies for the purpose of upgrading of their Pilot Field stadium site.

When the current Chairman purchased the Club, it was unlikely he was aware of the history in terms of content of leases, and the Council's stance. Yes, he would have taken on the full repairing lease, but he was unlikely to have realised just what detrimental impact that might have on the Club's finances in the future. Since the purchase, he is likely to have come to realise that the Pilot Field may have become 'unfit for purpose', as admitted by representatives of the Council, but that this will not mean that, despite their ownership of the site, Hastings Borough Council will take action to upgrade, or replace, what is their ancient facility. The fact that Hastings United Football Club is a private limited company should not, as it is, be used by the Council as a reason for refusing the public of Hastings a modern and well designed community stadium facility, either at the Pilot Field site, or elsewhere. Remember too, the Council could not even get it right on whether planning permission was, or was not, required, when the Club approached them on their requirement to install new floodlights on the Council's site, at the Club's own cost, and ended up giving the Club the wrong advice.

As regards The Firs site, the Council has allowed this to dilapidate since the demise of St Leonards F.C. some five years ago, and appears to be content to allow this dilapidation to continue. Here are a few facts, which exist, or are alleged to exist, in connection with the site, and additionally, questions for the Council.

• On the demise of St Leonards F.C., it is alleged that the former tenant of The Firs approached the Council, wishing to surrender the lease for the site, but only in return, despite future non-requirement for use of the site, for some form of financial credit for agreeing surrender of the lease. It is alleged that the Council agreed that a percentage of any proceeds from any future sale of The Firs land would go to the former tenant. One has to ask why the Council may have agreed to this, as it will devalue any future potential sale of land income to the Council, and thus, the ratepayers. Why did the Council not simply insist that the former tenant, either just surrender the lease, or alternatively, continue to pay the Council the monetary requirement under the lease during the term of the lease?
• Why did the Council install a floodlit MUGA at The Firs site, in an area that has affected the ability for the site to be large enough to even house a junior football pitch, when there are other areas on the site, where the MUGA could have been more prudently located?
• Why were considerable sums of money spent on the former clubhouse at The Firs, converting it into an excellence cluster, only for the excellence cluster to become unused just a few months after its opening?
• Why has the Council allowed the area and buildings within The Firs site to dilapidate?
• What are the Council's future intentions for The Firs site, and will any income produced from such future intentions be ring-fenced for the development, or enhancement, of existing sports facilities, either in the same specific, or adjacent, areas, or elsewhere in the Borough?
• What restrictions are there, if any, in terms of future usage of The Firs land? For instance, does it have to be retained for sport and leisure use, or could it be used to house a residential development?

I was pleased to see local MP, Michael Foster, and local Labour Council Leader, Jeremy Birch, urging the Council last week to assist Hastings United Football Club in moving forward, and stating that a thriving football team would be a big asset for Hastings. The proof of the pudding will be in the eating and in this respect, I suspect it is 'don't hold your breath', not only in terms of improved football stadia facilities, but also in terms of improved sports facilities overall.

D.S.Nessling
10/08/09"

The new stadium debate rages on - 4/8/09

You may have read recently in the Observer that Hastings Borough Council (HBC) have rejected our proposals for a new stadium to replace the ageing Pilot Field stadium that is our current home.

Back in December 2006 we first approached HBC with the idea for a new stadium. The reason for doing this is that our current facilities are old and requiring ever more money just to keep reasonably maintained, and the point will come where repairs are no longer financially viable.

We saw the fact that the former home of St Leonards FC (The Firs) was no longer in use (other than a hastily erected multi use games area) provided a perfect opportunity to enable us to relocate. By selling the land that we currently use, along with the land which was used by St Leonards FC, we felt that the capital proceeds would be more than enough to build a new stadium on a new site. The crucial point is that we would have to relocate as the finance to redevelop the Pilot Field could not be provided in any other way. Although The Firs has nothing to do with Hastings United, other than being alongside the Pilot Field and therefore more attractive to developers, we felt that this provided HBC with the perfect opportunity to build a new stadium. At the time The Firs was being put to little use, and that is still the case today. If HBC had other plans for it then that is another matter but they have never indicated that there are other plans and as such the land continues to lie virtually derelict some 5 ½ years after St Leonards FC went out of business.

Almost a year after our initial approach we were asked to submit a business plan for the project to HBC. A lot of time and effort went into putting this business plan together, which was submitted to them in the early part of 2008. Soon after this in their manifesto that preceded the local elections in May 2008 the local Conservative party pledged "We want to relocate Hastings United to a modern stadium". Council leader Peter Pragnell was also quoted in the Hastings Observer as saying that the Pilot Field was "no longer fit for purpose". This led us to believe that they were serious about our proposals. In December 2008 we attended a meeting with representatives of HBC that included Peter Pragnell and Peter Finch, who had also been involved in previous meetings regarding the project. At this meeting we were promised a valuation of The Pilot Field and The Firs by a suitably qualified person from within HBC (we had already provided a valuation in the business plan submitted to us by a developer). By July 2009 we still had not received this valuation and I wrote to Peter Pragnell expressing my disappointment about this. Soon after this a letter was received and contained within was the following "In the present economic climate we have reached the conclusion that your plans for a new stadium are not currently financially viable".

There was no valuation included in this letter nor was there a request to resubmit our financial projections given the economic downturn. It should be stressed that our business plan was submitted prior to the onset of the current recession, and of course we accept that land values have gone down. However without knowing how much HBC value the land at it would not be possible to revise our plans. Their letter also states "If your future funding position improves and you are able to identify sufficient resources, we would be more than willing to reconsider the position". HBC know very well that the whole project would only be viable with the sale of the land and so make what you will of that last statement of theirs. We have had meetings with the Football Foundation regarding the project and they appeared to be very much in favour of it because the Football Association have long recognised the lack of suitable facilities in the Hastings area. We are confident that a sizeable grant would have been made available for the project by the Football Foundation.

In summary, it seems that this is the end of the project, in many ways before it ever really got going. Should there be a change in the political rulers locally following next year’s elections we will approach the new council leadership at that time to try and resurrect the project. If there is no change in leadership at HBC then we can do no more. A wonderful opportunity has been missed.

Further update on the floodlights issue - 10/8/09

For some time now, the Club has been conscious that the ongoing problem with the Pilot Field floodlights is not going to go away, because of the age of the current structure. The pylons were erected in the early 1960's, with the present light fixtures at the top of the pylons installed during the 1980’s, and the Club has received expert advice to the effect that they have survived rather longer than would normally have been expected. Many of the actual fittings have rusted away, and are generally not in a serviceable condition.

As a consequence, the decision was taken to somehow try and replace the floodlights completely, before their condition deteriorated to the point at which United would no longer have been able to play at the Pilot Field. It was discovered that a grant of up to 40% could potentially be obtained from the Football Foundation, which of course meant that the Club would have to fund at least 60% of the cost itself. A number of quotes were obtained, indicating that the total required would be in the region of £45,000. Initially, Hastings Borough Council verbally advised the Club that planning permission would not be required, but when confirmation was requested in writing, the Council advised that formal consent would be needed after all. A planning application was submitted on 7 May 2009, and the Club was subsequently informed in writing, that should the Council have been unable to reach a decision within eight weeks, the Club would be advised of the reasons. Although the Council did contact the Club to request some further information, which was provided, planning permission has still not yet been granted, and neither have the reasons for the delay been disclosed.

It was initially hoped to have new lights installed by October 2009, when the Pilot Field is next due a ground inspection. It quickly became apparent that this deadline was unlikely to be met, given the protracted nature of the planning procedure, coupled with the challenge of raising the necessary funds on time. Obviously, a contingency plan had to be sought, in order to ensure that the floodlights would pass the inspection, and a number of experts were consulted to that end. To pass the test, the Club must have what is known as a lux reading, showing an average light level across the pitch of at least 120. This is found by taking light readings at 10m² intervals across the pitch. In addition, the lowest reading must be no less than 25% of the highest reading. A test was undertaken in July to confirm the light readings at the time, and the results showed that, although the average reading was acceptable, the lowest reading was some way short of the minimum requirement. The consultant who performed the test suggested what was widely agreed to be a potentially good, short term solution, this being to improve the lowest light reading by installing a separate light on the pylon, from which the lowest reading was obtained. The consultant also suggested that the highest reading could be reduced by simply disabling a bulb on the pylon, from which the highest reading was obtained, which has now been done, leaving the Club optimistic of successfully passing October's inspection.

As stated though, this will only be a short term solution. Planning permission is still required, and substantial funds must still be raised if a new set of lights is to be purchased.

Club appeals for matchday volunteers - 12/7/09

United are looking for stewards to work at the Pilot Field on matchdays. The role is a voluntary one, but does offer other benefits.

Currently, our existing stewards are training for an NVQ Level 2 in Spectator Safety. The Club is pleased to be working together with Phoenix Security and Event Safety, and thanks them for their assistance in allowing our stewards to participate in the NVQ qualification. In the near future, it will become a requirement for any person working as a steward at a football match, or other event, to be qualified to this minimum standard, and United will be pleased to be able to have its stewards trained and qualified in advance of the rule change.

Any person wishing to help the Club on matchdays with stewarding will receive full training to NVQ Level 2 standard. This does open doors to being able to steward at other events as well, and with the 2012 Olympics not far away, it will undoubtedly provide opportunities for work in other areas. In the more immediate future, once qualified, there will be an opportunity to work with Phoenix Security and Event Safety.

So, are you interested in helping the Club on matchdays, and helping yourself with work opportunities in the future? If so, please contact Simon Rudkins on 07703 358399, or email simonrudkins@hotmail.com, for further information.

The Club is also looking for a new matchday Kit Person, for someone to take responsibility for Reserve Team home games, for bar and tea bar staff, and for turnstiles operators.

As Tony Dolby builds his on-field squad, the Club would be pleased to hear from anyone who would like to be part of its off-field squad. A lot of work goes into staging a match of course, and without the considerable efforts of a few supporters, and the Supporters' Club Committee, it would be an extremely difficult task indeed.

If you are interested in one of the specific roles mentioned above, or have a few hours to spare the Club each week, please get in touch with Simon Rudkins as soon as possible.

United forced to move on to floodlight plan B - 22/6/09

Following on from having had to apply for planning permission to install new floodlights, the Club has recently received further professional advice on the ongoing problem at the Pilot Field. It had initially been hoped that new lights could be installed prior to the next inspection, which is due to take place in October, however this will not now be possible. The process of applying for planning permission, along with the grant application to the Football Foundation, and ordering and installing the lights themselves, will take too long, and not be completed by the October deadline. As well as this, the fundraising initiatives have, understandably, slowed considerably during the close season.

The latest advice that the Club received included the findings of a 'lux test', undertaken to ascertain whether or not the lights would likely pass October's inspection in their present condition. As expected, the lights did not pass this test, although guidance has been provided as to how the Club can sufficiently upgrade them to ensure that football at the Pilot Field can continue in the immediate future. This advice is now being considered, and there are a few options available, so the Club feels reasonably reassured that the problem can be overcome one way or another.

Providing the necessary work is successful, it is important not to then get complacent, as the basic problem of the age of the current floodlights will not go away. Planning permission will hopefully be granted in the fullness of time, and the fundraising effort really needs to continue in the meantime, as a grant of only 40% of the total cost will be available at best.

Fundraising initiatives in the pipeline include the Hastings Legends v Arsenal Ex-Pro/Celebrity match on July 26th. The game will be preceded by a challenge match between United's Supporters' Club XI and a side from Arsenal's own South East Supporters' Club.

A golf day has also been arranged for September in aid of the appeal. This will be held at Cooden Golf Club and will include coffee and bacon rolls, eighteen holes of golf, and a three course evening meal, along with entertainment provided by comedian Adjer Brown, an auction, and a raffle, for a total cost of £75 per person. Tickets for the evening only are also available for £30 per person.

If you would like to enter a team of four, or as an individual to make up a bespoke team on the day, please contact the Club on 01424 444635 or club@hastingsunitedfc.co.uk

Floodlight plans hit by Council confusion - 6/5/09

United Chairman, Dave Walters, has issued the following statement today, after belatedly receiving some unwelcome news from Hastings Borough Council, with respect to the Club's decision to replace its ageing floodlights this year.

"It was concluded, upon receipt of professional advice at the beginning of this year, that the Club could no longer continue patching up its existing floodlight system, and would have to ‘bite the bullet’ and have new floodlights installed.

A formal announcement was made at the beginning of February, with the Club asking its supporters to assist with a concerted fundraising effort, whilst also confirming that a grant would be sought from the Football Foundation. The grant application process subsequently commenced, with the Club obtaining three independent quotes, as required. At this stage, the Club was also verbally informed that planning permission would not be required, as the existing floodlight system was simply being replaced by a new one.

The Club also received an email from a Hastings Borough Council (HBC) official, who advised that ‘As far as support for the Floodlight campaign is concerned, the Council is not in a position to provide this kind of support. As you know, we provide rate relief under discretionary powers, and as the pitch is not available to community schemes, it does not fit into any of our funding streams, which are primarily for community based activity. However, I hope that the campaign is successful, and that you are able to provide the new lights at the earliest opportunity. I recall an earlier exchange in which the Estates Manager made it clear that the Council would consider favourably any request for improvements to the ground’.

Whilst it was obviously disappointing to learn that HBC was not prepared to assist the Club financially in any way, the wording at least suggested that no obstacles would be put in the Club's way. On March 23rd, the Club wrote to the Council's Planning Department, requesting written confirmation that planning permission would not be required, following the previous verbal communication to that effect. By early May, no response had been forthcoming, so a further letter was sent.

This morning, May 6th, HBC confirmed that a letter had apparently been sent to the Club on April 27th, advising that planning permission was in fact required after all. The letter did not arrive at the Club, and upon further investigation, it transpired that, not only had it never been sent by HBC, but that the reply which they had intended to send in fact related to the Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) situated at The Firs, a completely unrelated topic that had nothing remotely to do with Hastings United Football Club. When HBC were asked to explain this chain of events, the Club was told that it was an understandable error, as the MUGA is situated close by, and is ‘sports related’. HBC also advised that the reason for the delay in preparing their letter was that they were ‘short staffed’.

The result of all this is that the Club is now faced with having to apply for full planning permission, which could take as long as eight weeks, and probably longer, given HBC's self-confessed staffing problems. Only when planning permission has been granted, assuming it is of course, will the Football Foundation consider the Club's grant application, despite all other aspects having already been completed. Once underway, the application process could take a further month, after which the company that wins the bid for the business would be instructed, and an installation process of up to eight weeks would begin.

The Club must have its new lights in place by the time of its next ground inspection in October. Failing this, it would be necessary to consider patching up the existing floodlights yet again, which now looks like being the most sensible option, unless HBC fast-track the planning application. The task facing the Club was difficult enough, in terms of raising the necessary finance, but it is fair to say that it has now been made that much harder still."

Floodlight Appeal receives Half Marathon boost - 9/3/08

The Club is pleased to announce that Paul Stuart will be running the Hastings Half Marathon to raise funds for United’s Floodlight Appeal.

Paul, aged 40, from St Leonards, is a Retail Manager for Spar in Kings Road. He is a keen runner, and this will be his nineteenth Hastings Half Marathon. He has supported Hastings United since the 1980s, and played in the same United Youth Team as Kevin Ball. He is of course keen to raise as much money as possible for the Floodlight Appeal.

Club Chairman Dave Walters said, "We are indebted to Paul for this generous gesture in helping to raise funds for this vital appeal, and would encourage anyone who has any interest in the Club to sponsor Paul."

Please contact club@hastingsunitedfc.co.uk, or Supporters' Club Chairman Pat McCrossan on 07596 729795 to make pledges.

Hastings United F.C. Business Lunch Club - 11/12/08

Back on Wednesday 3 December, the final business lunch club of the year took place at Azur at Marina Pavilion, with presentations by Mina O’Brien from East Sussex County Council, Sean Dennis from 1066 Enterprise and main speaker Mark Collings from Amazon Events.

Launched in August of this year, the lunch club has quickly established itself on the Hastings business calendar, and has a wide range of speakers lined up for the New Year, including Hastings Borough Council leader Peter Pragnell on 4 February, Alan Grieve from Jerwood Gallery on 6 May, Councillor Jeremy Birch on 1 July and Sir Dexter Hutt on 7 October.

The next meeting will be on Wednesday 7 January, when local singer songwriter Jonathan Martin will perform the song which recently reached the semi-final of a national songwriting competition, and Beaula Page will highlight the value of hypnotherapy to help overcome a variety of problems. The main speaker will be Shaine Gravett, who is manager of both Arrow FM in Hastings and Sovereign Radio in Eastbourne.

Meetings will be held at Azur on the first Wednesday in every month and further details are available from Dave Walters on 07970 165102.

United earn Charter Standard status - 17/9/08

The Club is delighted to announce that it has been awarded Charter Standard status by the Football Association.

Hastings United was originally formed in 1894 and currently plies its trade in the Ryman League Premier Division, at level three of the non-league footballing pyramid. The Club has two full time employees, as well as a number of occasional staff and volunteers. It also has a youth section, made up of fifteen teams, including one girls team. The senior section comprises First Team, Reserves and Under 18s sides.

We, the Sussex County Football Association, congratulate Hastings United Football Club on achieving the Charter Standard Award, as it is an excellent way of promoting the club to potential players, volunteers, parents and sponsors. It also demonstrates to players, schools and the public that the club is well organised and safe, and is adhering to Football Association guidelines. The award is designed to raise standards, quality and safety, from grassroots football through to the adult game.

To achieve Charter Standard status, the Club has met the criteria set by the Football Association in abiding by its Constitution and rules, its Codes of Conduct for players, managers, coaches, spectators and parents, and its Child Protection Policies. The award also demonstrates that those volunteers in a position of trust within the Club are suitably qualified, be they Club administrators, Club welfare officers who sit on the committee, or coaches and managers who have completed their Level 1 Football Coaching Certificate, Emergency Aid Certificates and Safeguarding Children Certificates, and who have been through the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) process.

The Sussex County Football Association wish Hastings United Football Club all the best in their future endeavours, and once again congratulate the Club on its achievement.

Lambert gets his chance as United promote from within - 18/5/08

Hastings United have appointed John Lambert as their third First Team Manager in the space of less than five months, taking over from Tony Dolby, who recently stepped down from the role after successfully leading the Club to Ryman League Premier Division safety in a fifteen week stint at the helm.

John spent the 2007/08 season managing United’s youthful Reserve side, guiding his young team to a fifth place finish in the Sussex County Reserve League Premier Division table, the semi-finals of the Sussex Intermediate Cup, and to a well deserved victory in the final of the Hastings Intermediate Cup. At the age of forty-nine, he even rolled back the years by turning out in defence on ten occasions during the season, scoring one goal in the process.

It marked an unlikely return to Pilot Field action for John, who first played for United in the mid-1970s, making his First Team debut in 1977, before moving to Hastings Town in 1980, only to find himself back at the Pilot Field when United went out of business five years later, and Town were promoted to the Southern League in their place. Having finally decided to quit the Club in 1987, he continued playing in local football for several years, and enjoyed spells in management for County League sides Westfield and Bexhill.

Just after Christmas 2007, with United on a dreadful run of form, John found himself thrust into the role of Caretaker First Team Manager, after promotion winning boss Nigel Kane parted company with the Club. His three matches in temporary charge yielded only two points, although one was secured in arguably United’s finest result of the campaign, a superb 1-1 draw away to eventual league champions Chelmsford City.

Also stepping up from the Reserves with John, is assistant manager Wayne Farrier, another popular, local, footballing figure, whose own playing career included a long spell with Stamco, and saw him captain Sidley United to the County League title in 2001. He then moved to Westfield, where he ultimately linked up with John, joining him at the Pilot Field at the start of last season.

The pair face a testing couple of months as they prepare for life in the Ryman League though, with United having already lost keeper Lee Worgan, striker Ade Olorunda, and central midfielder Tim Olorunda, to Premier Division rivals Tonbridge Angels, and with three other players said to be in talks with Division One South side Ashford Town.

Mission accomplished but Dolby departs - 8/5/08

Hastings United Football Club is once again searching for a new First Team manager, after Tony Dolby reluctantly confirmed that he will not be returning to take up the role on a full-time basis for the 2008/09 campaign.

The former Tonbridge Angels boss only took over at the Pilot Field in January, with his long time number two at Longmead, Mike Rutherford, joining him in accepting the task of trying to keep United in the Ryman League Premier Division, following the departure of Hastings’ promotion winning manager Nigel Kane.

Together, Tony and Mike oversaw an immediate improvement in results, taking four points out of six against eventual beaten play-off finalists Staines Town, and leading Hastings to their first away league victory of the season at Margate. Successive defeats at AFC Wimbledon and East Thurrock United in early March left United deep in relegation trouble though, before a run of six wins in their last nine games led them to safety, sealed by a 3-0 success at bottom club Leyton on the final day of the season.

United Chairman Dave Walters commented, "When he first accepted the job at the Pilot Field, Tony did so on the basis that neither of us was committed in any way beyond the end of what turned out to be a successful battle against relegation. Obviously, after keeping us up, I was keen to secure Tony’s services for next season too, but the long journey from his Chislehurst home was not to his liking, and as was the case with Mike, he has advised me that this was the overwhelming reason for his decision not to continue in the role. Whilst this comes as a huge disappointment, I would of course like to thank both Tony and Mike for their considerable efforts in ensuring that Hastings United will remain a Premier Division club next season, and wish them every success in the future."

The Club will now consider its options for a brief period, but will hope to be in a position to appoint Tony’s successor in the near future.

United tie up Smart sponsorship deal - 14/4/08

Hastings United Football Club is delighted to announce that Smart Property Solutions has agreed to become its new main sponsor, in a deal that will run for the next two seasons.

Smart Property Solutions, based at 41 Havelock Road in Hastings, is the fastest growing sales and lettings agency in the 1066 area. It is a new, innovative and forward-thinking company, which specialises in residential sales and lettings. All enquiries are dealt with by a Director of the firm, thus providing a reliable, professional and dedicated service at all times. The company covers Hastings, Bexhill, St Leonards, Westfield, Battle, Sedlescombe, Fairlight and other surrounding areas as well.

United Chairman Dave Walters commented, "We are excited at the prospect of working with Smart Property Solutions over the next two seasons, and are very grateful to them for showing such faith in what we are trying to do at the Club. For such a fledgling company to be so proactive and supportive of the senior Football Club in the area is a tremendous credit to them, and as a Club, we will be doing whatever we can to help them promote their business. I would urge all supporters to think of Smart first, when they come to sell their houses. In fact, all Supporters’ Club members will receive a discounted commission from Smart Property Solutions for using their services."

Smart Property Solutions Director Isaac Bull added, "We are all very excited about this new deal, and hope that over time, our name can become synonymous with Hastings United Football Club, who have enjoyed continued success over recent seasons. We are hoping that this can become a long term relationship, and are looking to build strong local connections with the Club and its supporters".