MARK Jermey has reflected on the club’s achievements after stepping down as Chair at Beccles Town FC.

Mark, whose association with Beccles Town stretches back to 1993, had held the position at the club since 2016.

He recently handed over the reins to Matt Humby, whose father John is a Beccles legend having given over 50 years’ service to the club.

When he moved to Beccles in 1993, Mark played a season for the Reserves, having previously given up football four years earlier.

Mark (pictured above with partner Kim) said: “I played for Hanwell Town in the Isthmian League but had three bad ankle injuries in quick succession and thought joining the club would enable me to integrate in my new home-town.”

He subsequently served as first-team assistant manager for a couple of years when Paul Drew was manager.

It was towards the end of 2016 that Mark was approached to become Chair, and during his time in charge the club have built a new stand and opened their 3G pitch.

Beccles Town have also twice won the Suffolk FA Groundsman of the Year award for clubs at Step 7 and below.

Asked what he considered the most notable achievement during his tenure, Mark said: “The expansion of our Female playing numbers both Adult and Junior, the reforming of our Saturday ‘A’ team, an affiliated Walking Football Section and the recent addition of inclusive sessions for anyone with disabilities or additional needs.

“I am not in any way taking credit for these, but the expansion of our facilities has enabled our volunteers to make these things happen.”

Mark, who will celebrate his 60th birthday in January, explained why he had taken the decision to step down now. 

“Two reasons – my partner Kim and I have plans to do some travelling before we get too old and I firmly believe that you need new blood and energy in any organisation, particularly when you are trying to fit in what can amount to a full-time voluntary position alongside running our own businesses.”

Mark will be staying on to undertake the treasurer’s role until the end of this season.

Suffolk FA Chief Executive Richard Neal said: “Mark, being the most humble man you’ll ever meet that he is, will seek no credit for the incredible progress the club have achieved under his stewardship, but he really should!

“Anyone who has had the pleasure of playing at Beccles Town will know their facilities are brilliant, both their 3G and grass pitches, but most of all their hospitality is always welcoming and generous.

“It’s easy to see the impact of Mark’s leadership in the obvious things, but it’s the less obvious things which are equally a measure of Mark’s success; the atmosphere within the club, the number and diversity of teams, the number of volunteers and the pride they display in wearing the Beccles Town badge, how everyone speaks of Mark and the way the club is run.

“His quiet, unassuming, but visionary and ambitious nature leaves Beccles Town in a fantastic position for Matt to take the reins and continue the trajectory set by his predecessor.

“I wish Mark every happiness as he completes his transition away from the club. He will go with my sincere gratitude, admiration and friendship.”