BRIDGWATER Town Football Club has confirmed its move towards becoming a limited company under the ownership of Adam Murry, with Bob Buckingham taking over as chairman from Adrian Byrne.

Byrne announced his decision to step down after more than four years in the role at the end of last week, and he is to be succeeded by current vice-chairman Buckingham.

READ MORE: Football club set to become limited company

Murry, the former AFC Bournemouth co-owner, plans to push forward with stadium improvements at Fairfax Park, as well as the creation of a youth academy at the club.

A club statement said: "Bridgwater Town Football Club is a private members club bound by a constitution, and has been led by the current elected Executive Committee since 2017.

"The difficult circumstances that the committee inherited at the time are well documented and it has been a monumental effort to ensure the club’s survival and sustainability by all involved to date.

"The football club is now on a sound financial footing and is one of the best supported clubs in the Toolstation Western League.

"We believe now is the right time for the organisation to take the next step forward that is in the best interests of the club.

"Earlier this week, the committee convened and voted to accept an exciting proposal from Mr Murry to assume control of the club and move to limited company status with its own Board of Directors, mirroring a structure found throughout the professional game.

"Mr Murry has already committed to improving the playing side and is in advance discussions over stadium improvements and the creation of Bridgwater Town Football Club’s very own youth academy.

"Final details of the new structure and board members will be announced in the coming days but rest assured the committee will still continue to serve the club moving forward as we embark on a new journey together."

Murry commented: “As I have stated previously, I am excited at the potential of this football club and the town/area itself.

"With such a great fanbase already here, I hope we will be able to take them on this exciting journey as we develop the club into something special for them and the wider area.

I’d like to thank Adrian [Byrne] and the committee for their support and work not just over the last month or so, since I have been on board, but since they have been involved with the club.

"Without them this club would not be in the position it is now. Thank you.

"By mutual consent of the Executive Committee and with Adrian Byrne’s endorsement, current club vice-chairman Bob Buckingham, who has been the heartbeat of this club in recent years and a rock of support to Adrian and the committee, will now step up to be the new chairman of the Board of Directors of the football club, giving much needed continuity at this time.

"Adrian Byrne will continue to work with the executive committee and the remaining members of the committee will remain in place.

"Moving forward, I will work closely with the existing executive committee to work towards our common goals using a robust and deliverable strategy.

"This will align all aspects of the club to form a cohesive club and business that will be able to maximise the opportunities that exist for us.

"Over lockdown we have supported the players with programmes that support their performance and wellbeing, as we view our challenge for promotion this season very seriously.”

In a message to the club's supporters, new chairman Buckingham said: "As many of you know, I have been involved with the club since early in 2016, when I was elected as vice-chairman, and, in more recent times, took on the additional role of commercial manager.

"It has certainly been a challenge, but a challenge that has been embraced by us all.

"As we start a new and exciting journey, I would like to pay tribute to the unfailing efforts of each and every one of my fellow committee members, both past and present, who have worked tirelessly to rebuild the fortunes of our club both on and off the field, to ensure sustainability, to tap into the potential in our area and to pave the way for progression.

"I am truly humbled to have been appointed as chairman and very much look forward to working closely with Adam Murry, my fellow directors and committee members, as we continue our quest to ensure that our club thrives, develops and becomes an integral part of our community.

"As always, your support and continued goodwill will be key ingredients to our success, as we embrace and are inspired by the spirit of our mantra #betterneverstops."

Bridgwater are scheduled to play their first match since the national Covid-19 lockdown this coming Saturday (3pm), at home to Royal Wootton Bassett Town in the second round proper of the FA Vase.