RADICAL nationwide changes by the English Football Association to National Non-League divisional structures in England has resulted in Crediton United’s elevation from step seven to step six in the non-League pyramid.

Not only will this give the Club the chance of playing at a higher level but opens up an opportunity to apply for significantly higher grant funding from the FA.

Changes for the 2019-20 season recently released for English FA’s National Non-League Football Leagues has resulted in the introduction of a second Step Six Division in the South West Peninsula League with one covering Devon and one Cornwall.

The increased grant funding, only available for step six teams and above, has given the Club the opportunity to update its near 30-years-old floodlights, which are such an important asset to the Club.

The application to the Football Association for a grant has been boosted by fantastic support from local businesses to an appeal organised by former Club Chairman and current Life Member Dave Blanchford. All being well this will allow the club to update its floodlights this summer.

This will also ensure ground is ready to be used as a Devon Air Ambulance night landing site for Crediton and the surrounding area.

The Club’s management teams of Matt Trenaman and Richard Blake (First team) and Danny Harvey and Nigel Thomas (Reserves) are looking optimistically to the new season.

The 2018-19 season has been a consolidating season with the introduction of a group of younger players. Hopefully the experience will stand them in good stead for the new challenge.

The club is also keen to canvass for volunteers to help run the club. Anyone interested in helping the club in any form is asked to contact Club Chairman Martin Edgington on telephone 01363 860290 or 07850 022 013.

In particular an opportunity has arisen for someone to prepare after-match food for players, a position which will include a recommendation to potential private function organisers to provide food if any applicant is interested.

The 2019-20 pre-season First team pre-season friendly programme will begin on July 13 with the visit of newly-promoted Southern League Members Willand Rovers to celebrate club legend Dave Blanchford’s 80th Birthday.

All supporters, former players and members are welcome to attend.