As the oldest sports users of Stoke Lodge it's with a tinge of sadness that we have had to make the decision to move fully to playing facilities elsewhere. Thankfully we saw this coming and have been making arrangements to make further use of our excellent facilities at Sea Mills and The Lawns.

If you've visited Stoke Lodge Parkland recently you'll have seen the signs on the Changing Rooms stating 'No Entry', and the fact that our container where we stored our equipment has now been moved.

Why have we moved away after nearly 40 years of playing football at Stoke Lodge? We had no choice. We were informed by Coombe Dingle that they could no longer hire us pitches due to the dilapidated state of the changing facilities and toilets. We were also asked to remove our container several times, due to 'impending development' and complaints from 'local residents' regards local youths kicking balls against it (although no-one ever complained to the club).

We couldn't wait any longer to see what would happen with the parkland, and so for the last couple of seasons we have improved facilities at Sea Mills, and fostered greater links with Cribbs FC. Both of these facilities are far and away better than what was offered at Stoke Lodge.

I could write chapter and verse on feelings regards the TVG versus Cotham Grammar School debate, but we're stuck in the middle of it all, and despite support from some parties, that didn't guarantee us any use of the facilities in the short term.

It's a great shame, and one that has moved us away from one of our 'spiritual homes'. However, as a club we continue to expand and have enjoyed yet another successful season. With our improved facilities, and with Sea Mills Recreation Ground being in close proximity we can continue to offer local children every opportunity to play football with their friends close to where they live.

Ross (Chairperson)