The long-serving President of Burnham-On-Sea’s football club has retired this month after more than half a century’s service.
An era has ended at Burnham United AFC with the retirement of President Albert Laurence, 84.
He has given the club 51 years’ service, during which time he has been heavily involved in all aspects of the club’s life.
His hard work over the years has secured thousands of pounds worth of sponsorship money and a quarterly fundraising draw that he has overseen for the past 22 years has pulled in almost £100,000.
Albert said this week he has “greatly enjoyed” his time at the club and added that he still plans to attend Burnham 1st team matches across the whole of Somerset.
Chairman Matt Counsell told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “How do you replace a guy like Albert? It was a great honour to present him with a commemorative plate in recognition of everything he has done for Burnham United.”
“He has done amazing things for this club, especially raising the amount of money that he has done. His hard work will be very hard to replace. He will be sorely missed but I am glad he is going to continue to watch our 1st team.”
Replacing Albert as Club President is Spencer Dibble who has stepped down as Chairman while Matt has been appointed as new Chairman.
Matt also said it has been a busy few weeks for him and the committee. “Many people have been working hard behind the scenes to move the club forward. We have got a new constitution and have adopted many policies to help us to continue to remain as an FA Chartered Standard Club.”
“There has been a big push on finding sponsors and over the coming weeks I will be announcing who is supporting the club for 2014/15 season. It will make a massive difference and we are so grateful.”
He added that pre-season training starts on Thursday 26th June at Cassis Close where new and old managers are welcome alike. Sessions will be run by first team manager and Uefa B qualified coach Luke Hussey and the newly-appointed reserves team manager Ollie Taylor.
Pictured: Matt Counsell and retiring club president Albert Lawrence, above
