Change at Horsham FC sees chief who drove stadium project stand down

The club said Lines had played an integral role since joining the board in 2005, with his tireless focus on securing their new home finally coming to a successful end when they received the keys to The Camping World Community Stadium in June last year.

As well as his behind-the-scenes role, Lines is often found on a matchday behind the lens as club photographer, a role which he will be continuing.

Lines said: “The club will forever be a part of my life. Through the ups and downs of the process that saw us into our fantastic new ground, I felt I could contribute fully to all of the questions and arguments racked up by HDC and others and that’s where I felt my most comfortable.

“We are past that now and the club needs a wholly different kind of director.

“Now that Sam (Borrett) and Sean (Bravery) have joined the board, it has been a revelation to me just how clear their aspirations and their brilliant ideas for the future will project the club to great success, and it is more of this younger breed the club needs.

He added: “I feel I have done my bit but now I want to move from the frontline into the fold of being a supporter and simply enjoy the buzz.”

Chairman Kevin Borrett said: “The club owes a huge debt to John for his 15 years’ service on the Board and I know everyone will want to thank him for that.

“On a personal level, we grew particularly close when John and I drove forward the plans for a new ground and resolving issues at the Holbrook site with a quiet tenacity when doors seemed to be constantly slammed in the face of HFC.

“Property development was his forte, combined with his passion for action photography. The club has been truly fortunate to have had him devote so much of his time over a long period to its service. His quiet, unassuming manner also endeared him to everyone.”

The chairman explained why all parties felt it was the right time for a change.

He continued: “Today we are now at the point where the final planning permissions associated with building the ground are largely complete and other legacy issues likewise.

“The focus is now very much on building our all age community club and operating our facilities.

“That task has also grown in nature, given the new normal that will emerge following the Covid-19 outbreak and John therefore concluded that now is the right time for him to stand back as writing the next chapter of HFC history is going to be a longer-term activity than just the next 12 months or so.

“John is not leaving the club, but instead wants to be able to enjoy matchdays with his camera, just without the long daily hours he has otherwise been committing on HFC matters.”

With the Hornets’ attentions now turning to next season, whenever that may be, the club said they were working hard, and safely, to prepare the stadium and how they willv operate when it re-opens.

Youth plans for next season are continuing to develop.

A club spokesman said: “The future is exciting but, from all at Horsham Football Club, please stay safe in the meantime.”