Dunstall ends six-year Bexhill reign

Dunstall stepped down during an at times lively Annual General Meeting at The Polegrove Sports Bar on Tuesday night and was replaced by Robin Powell.

A round of applause followed Dunstall’s announcement, reflecting his popularity among the approximately 30-strong gathering - a figure far higher than for the corresponding meeting last year.

Dunstall, whose son Will has been a Bexhill player for several seasons, isn’t walking away from the club completely, however, as he was elected vice-president.

His replacement, Powell, comes with a wealth of football experience. He said: “I would be hugely disappointed if this club does not gain promotion and I will do everything I possibly can, with everybody’s help, to make sure we do get promoted.”

One of the first things that Powell and the new committee must sort out is the first team manager’s position. A meeting will be held on Sunday morning and Powell hopes that a decision will be made by Monday night.

Gerard Moyse, who was unable to attend the AGM, and assistant Mark Stapley, who was present, led the club to its highest placing in the Sussex County League since 1993-94 during the 2010-11 campaign.

But they haven’t yet been reappointed with Powell saying “I will make sure it goes to a committee decision and make sure it’s totally open”. Adam Taylor and Dickie Anderson will continue in charge of the reserves.

The full article will appear in tomorrow’s Bexhill Observer.