Bognor: It's no good having the best ground if you've not got an entertaining team

Bognor are closing in on a construction start date after unveiling an ambitious blueprint to modernise the ground and fundraising efforts continue to try to make up for the loss of matchday revenue due to the season being scrapped amid the coronavirus crisis.

A new 367-seat grandstand is the biggest improvement along with a new covered area behind the goal at the Seasons as well as new floodlights; a new PA system and a new toilet block.

But Pearce says being able to field a team brimming with talented players playing an expansive game is the biggest challenge to be met as and when football returns to the Isthmian premier division.

He said: "As a club we have always tried to make progress off the pitch in regards to the ground and the infrastructure in place to ensure supporters enjoy their match-going experience and feel at home at Nyewood Lane. And while the work we are undertaking over the summer months is vital, the most important aspect to consider is the players.

"If you haven't got players who can play the game in a successful and entertaining manner then you are going to struggle in terms of expecting fans to come and pay to watch you play. You can have the best ground going but if you are not playing the game in the right way with the right players then you will not attract as many fans, it is that simple.

“When we eventually see football return, the landscape will have changed in terms of being able to reward players for their services. We are not going to be the only club looking to keep and attract the best players and it is vital to never lose sight of that.

"We have an excellent crop of young players at the club as well as a number of very good players in their prime. We want to keep these players and we must move heaven and earth to find the funding to be able to do this so we don't get left behind.

"We have been ever so lucky with fans, sponsors and our community helping out where they can regarding fundraising and we must now redouble our efforts to meet those challenges."

The Rocks have received a boost this week thanks to travel business 'The Mitchells - Not Just Travel' sponsoring the club's programme hut with a complete overhaul while insurance firm Sportshield have also increased their backing of the club with additional advertising around the ground.

Commercial manager Dave Robinson says there are a number of exciting sponsorship initiatives in the pipeline. He said: “We can’t thank our sponsors enough for being ever so generous in these trying times. The love for the club is incredible and individuals and businesses continue to show their support and it is absolutely tremendous."

* To discuss sponsorship opportunities ahead of next season, call Dave on 07876 497929.