“Nick has been a fantastic servant to the club as chairman and I have big boots to fill.”
Matt Marston
Bishop notified the club’s committee at the start of the season that his tenth campaign in the role would be his last – and last Tuesday night, Matt Marston was voted in as his successor.
During his final meeting address, Bishop said: “We have a healthy membership and one of the few clubs in Warwickshire to have a regular second team, in fact not only are they regular they came second in their league and won the cup.
“Our first team has shown it can be competitive in Midlands 3 West South too.”
He added: “I would like to say that I have had a fantastic ride as chairman and I wish my successor and Manor Park every bit of success it deserves.”
New chairman Marston is a familiar face at the Griff and Coton having played for the club for 23 seasons.
Despite being in his 40s, Marston is still a first team player and has also served the club as first team captain in five different spells.
He said: “I’m honoured to become the new chairman and I’m looking forward to the responsibility.
“Nick has been a fantastic servant to the club as chairman and I have big boots to fill.
“We’re fortunate to have a strong committee of people dedicated to the club and I hope together we can continue to build as a club.”
There were no changes in the captaincy roles as Chris Goode retained his first team role for a third straight season and James Everard kept the reins of the second team.
“It’s a great honour and I hope I can help the club move forward again with another solid season in Mids 3 assisted by new vice captains Stephen Ballard and Callum Bishop.”
The club will be coached by Harrison Lakin with the support of a number of other coaches, including his predecessor Kevin Venus.
Goode added: “Let’s all get round Harrison Lakin when the season comes round and buy into his training! I’ve attended his sessions this season and can vouch that they are enjoyable for whatever level your at!”
Two second team vice-captains were elected with Bobby Bridge and Liam Rose taking on the responsibility.
Behind the scenes, it was ‘as you were’.
Nik Gajic remains as treasurer, albeit with fewer responsibilities and less of a presence at the club week-to-week.
Steve Rose (registration), John Jenkins (president), Bobby Bridge (fixtures, press and referee liaison), Nigel Ellis (development), Nigel Aucott (groundsman) and Neil Fitzpatrick also remained in their roles for the 2017/18 campaign.
Stephen Ballard was the only social secretary to remain in the role – he will be assisted by Harrison Lakin this season and Nigel Ellis.
Manor Park is now in its off-season but the club isn’t stopping.
Each Wednesday at Nuneaton Academy’s outdoor 4G surface, football is being held on a weekly basis from 7-8pm. If anyone is interested in playing, let Bobby know on 07792759180.
+++ Our long-serving matchday 'chef' Nigel Aucott is unable to commit every week this season so we will also be looking for assistance during the season. Anyone who can offer support please contact a committee member! +++
Updated 19:07 - 6 Sep 2019 by Bobby Bridge