Following the government announcement last week to further relax lockdown rules, Southern League Division One South club Paulton Rovers announced that they will be re-opening for business on Saturday at 12.00.
During this unprecedented situation, Rovers have used the available time to carry out many improvements around the club and refresh of paintwork to the bar, entrance areas and toilets. Many hours have been spent by volunteers and staff.
However, the torrential rain last week - whilst great news for the pitch and groundsman - unfortunately, caused severe flood damage to the lounge and parts of the entrance area.
This couldn't have happened at a worst time with the refresh just completed, the government announcing re-opening and reduced capacity requirements due to social distancing.
The repair works are now underway and the club hopes to have the repairs completed as soon as possible, but unfortunately, this will continue past the opening date.
It's Rovers` intention to have the lounge area open to use by customers if they wish. At times for health and safety reasons, the club may have to restrict use, but hope to keep this to a minimum.
The club are now busy behind the scenes putting in place the finishing items and paperwork to enable the club to be COVID-secure.
Although there's no certainty of the forthcoming season starting this calendar year, Paulton Rovers manager John Rendell has wasted no time in shaping the squad for the 2020/21 season.
A number of last season's squad have been retained, along with some very positive signings to date.
Braeden Symes, Andy Sandell, Ryan Gay, Ben Withey, Dave O’Hare, Luke Seviour, Jake Sloggett, Mason Harrison, Ali Sen, Dan Dempsey, Will Hailston, Alex Twiggs, Tyler Jackson, Dan Cottle, Charlie Hitchings, Craig Allan and Jack Fillingham have all put pen-to-paper for Rovers.
Rendell said: “We have had players leave to play at a higher level which, although it's disappointing to have to lose them from our club, as a manager it's a hidden compliment I guess to be able to assist in the development of these players who make the step up.
“Unfortunately Brad Abraham has decided to retire, whilst several players have moved to play at a higher level with Nuno Felix joining Hungerford Town and Ed Butcher moving to Tiverton Town.
“We are building a squad who are predominately local to the club, hungry, motivated, and willing to listen and learn and this stood us in good stead last season and we hope to continue in this vein going into next season.
“We will add to the above-signed list in due course, but we are pleased with the squad to date and they are all currently keeping themselves fit embracing the fitness sessions put on by fitness coach Jack Benden”.
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