Wroxham FC are closer to realising their ambition of becoming Norfolk's 'premier non-league club' after receiving permission to make ground improvements costing up to �70,000. But the Yachtsmen are appealing for volunteers as they have fewer than two months to bring Trafford Park up to standard.
A grandstand extension, covered standing area for up to 150 spectators and improvements to the hospitality area are required by March 31 to ensure the club is eligible for promotion from the Ridgeons League Premier Division.
Two turnstiles, fencing, a medical room and new toilet block were also recommended in a ground inspection, which was carried out after the club applied to the Football Association to be considered for promotion.
Wroxham are two points clear at the top and hope to compete in the Rymans Isthmian League, the next level-up. The club has now received planning permission from Broadland District Council to make the improvements, although they estimate the work will cost between �60,000 and �70,000.
Nigel Youd, Wroxham FC commercial manager, predicted the next six to seven weeks will be 'absolutely manic'.
He said: 'We are up against it and we want as many volunteers as we can. Hopefully we will be going up. We are top of the league – it's ours to lose. It's important if we can go up as we can hopefully attract better sponsorship.'
Planning documents submitted on behalf of the club stated: 'If they achieve this promotion they will become the premier non-league club in Norfolk.'
Club secretary Chris Green said they were also on the lookout for new sponsors. He said: 'We are waiting for sponsors to come forward to help with the cost of the development and further costs of running at a higher level. We are also looking for additional volunteers.
'I suppose we have a hardcore of 10 or a dozen volunteers but we could always do with some more.
'We are caught in a little bit of a dilemma in a way. We don't have the facilities required or resources to take all this additional work on without a little bit of extra support.'
Anyone wishing to help Wroxham FC should contact Chris Green on 01603 783936 or e-mail secretary@wroxhamfc.com
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