I am extremely relieved as I am sure our supporters are that Harrow Borough will remain a Ryman Premier League club next season, as the financial implications brought on by a move to the Southern League with extra travelling could have been a bridge to far for us.

I am very disappointed that Wealdstone have not managed to escape the
clutches of the Southern League and that we will not be able to look forward to renewing our rivalry and local derbies.

I have spoken to Wealdstone's manager Gordon Bartlett and hopefully we will be able to arrange a pre season friendly in early August at Northwood. We have a provisional date of 5th August.

Despite the loss of local teams Wealdstone and relegated Hendon there is still an air of excitement at the structure of the new league.

There are seven new teams for next season: Ashford Town (Middx), Boreham Wood, Canvey Island, Carshalton, Horsham, Ramsgate and Tonbridge.

I am sure they will add some spice to the league along with, in my opinion, some of the existing teams and favourites for next season - AFC Wimbledon, Billericay, Chelmsford, Hampton, Heybridge, Margate and Staines.

The remaining sides will also be looking to improve on their league
positions from last season so it will make for another interesting and competitive season.

I am sure that regardless of the changes made to the non-league
structure I will be working with the lowest weekly playing budget in the league and probably the whole of Step 2.

We are actively looking for volunteers for numerous tasks at the club, so if you feel you can help us, please either contact the club or myself as soon as possible over the summer, as we begin to prepare for what will be a tough but hopefully an entertaining and exciting year.

Don't forget our End of Season Awards night on 20th May. A chance to all get together and enjoy a night before the summer break.

Owsy