Chairman’s Statement
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
A STATEMENT FROM MR. TONY PLATTEN, CHAIRMAN OF BLYTH SPARTANS AFC
Following a Board meeting last night (Monday) I can announce, on behalf of the Directors, that the Club will not be renewing the contract of manager Harry Dunn.
Harry's 2-year contract finished at the end of the season.
The Board fully recognise Harry's achievements at Blyth, most notably, in getting the Club promoted to the Blue Square North three years ago and of course our wonderful FA Cup run this year. He has taken the club to a new level but our League form over the past two seasons, witnessed by a battle against relegation this time around, has not matched our hopes and aspirations.
After investing over £500,000 in the Croft Park stadium the Board feels it is time to bring in new blood and ideas to enable us to establish ourselves over the next two seasons in the top third of the League before then giving reasoned consideration to further advancement.
I'm sure I speak on behalf of everyone at the club - players, supporters and officials in thanking Harry for his time with us and the affable manner in which he went about his duties. We all wish him, and his family, all the very best.
I have spoken to Harry today and he thanks the Board, players and fans for a very enjoyable time at Croft Park and passes on his good wishes to everyone at the club for the future.
Blyth Spartans now need to focus on the future and that will entail securing the long- term financial standing of the club while at the same time striving for further and sustained success on the pitch.
The Board is working on a strategy to see us through the period until a new manager is appointed.
Anyone interested in the manager's position should get in touch with General Manger Ian Evans at Croft Park in writing or by email on