On behalf of The Board of Directors, First Team Manager Sean Joyce and the entire playing squad, I want to express our sincere gratitude and thanks to a private sponsor who has pledged a significant financial donation to the Club on condition of total anominity.

Under the terms of the agreement, I cannot reveal the individual's identity. However, I can reveal that he asked that as part of the arrangement, we nominate a local charity and adopt their identity on our entire 1st Team playing strip. After careful consideration, I can announce that Children's Hospice South West as the shirt emblem for season 2012-2013. More news on this, and news on the launch of the shirt deal will follow shortly.

What I must underline is how important it is for us to respect the request for anominity. It goes without saying how grateful we are, but it also underlines that such generosity is the life-blood of many clubs throughout the country, in the face of a harsh economic climate. Our recent trip to Banbury to play in a midweek fixture, serves to illustrate not only the cost of travel for all concerned, but also the demands of travel time in this Division. The supporters and squad not returning home until after 2a.m. on Wednesday morning.

We are all working very hard indeed to adjust to, and consolidate at the higher level, and we will do all in our power to remain at this hard earned level. With the help and support of all of our supporters and private individuals of this stature, I feel confident that Bideford AFC will not only survive the demands, but will go on to earn the respect of many of the bigger, well heeled competitors.

First Team Manager Sean Joyce responded. " I have asked the Chairman to convey the thanks of the entire playing squad and me, to our new sponsor. It comes as a tremendous boost at a time when we are facing up to life with the big boys. It's one less concern having to worry as we do, about the prospect of trips away and the cost of overnight stays. Perhaps, what many people overlook, is that my squad is largely made up of college students, self employed and low-paid workers who simply cannot afford to give up working time, to travel. But we are here now, and believe me, we intend to stay here! Give us time and support and we will repay that in bucket loads.