Mike Brennand return to chairman's role at Fylde RFC

Mike Brennand has been elected unopposed as Fylde chairman

Season will not start before January for Fylde

Brennand was one of three new key officers appointed at Wednesday’s agm.

Brennand takes over from Dave Young and returns to the role he filled from 2006-12, during which time Fylde won promotion to National One.

The new club secretary is Mike Hornby and treasurer Andy Dowds. They succeed David Wiseman and Sandi Haslam respectively and have both occupied the roles in the recent past.

Brennand is closely involved in National League rugby and serves on the executive of the National Clubs Association, which runs the game at Fylde’s level and the one above.

Brennand, Dowds and Hornby were all elected to their roles unchallenged.

A newcomer elected to the general committee is businessman Mike Davies, who will play an important part in business planning in this difficult financial climate.

The suspension of fixtures until January at the earliest poses a major challenge in generating revenue.

Outgoing chairman Young emphasised the importance of retaining as many members as possible while no competitive rugby is being played.

“Whilst some members haven’t renewed so far, the majority have and we’re extremely grateful for that” he said.

His successor Brennand thanked the retiring officers, who invested so much time in the club during such a difficult period and continue to support Fylde RFC.

He said after the meeting: “The priorities for the club over the next few months are to create a business model that allows for no first-team rugby being played until the New Year.

“It costs the club over £1000 per week just to open the doors.

“The continuing support of members and sponsors is now more crucial than ever.”