Cromer Town FC saved as Carey takes charge

Cromer Town's immediate future was secured yesterday when Chris Carey agreed to lead the Crabs into the new Anglian Combination Premier Division campaign.

The former Norfolk cricketer, who also played football in his younger days, answered his home town club's plea for help when a lack of funds prompted fears that they might go out of business.

Carey is now looking forward to Cromer's opening game of the season against Kirkley and Pakefield Reserves at Cabbell Park on Friday week (7.30pm), when a new-look side will be on show.

'We are looking to get the community behind us so we are looking at playing as many local lads as possible,' he said.

Cromer have been one of the powerhouses of the Anglian Combination in recent years, winning the title twice in a row under Chris Wigger before finishing third last term.

It will be tough to match those achievements, with many of last season's squad having moved on. But for the time being officials are just relieved that senior football will still be played in the town this season.

'The club is not going to die, and that is a big relief,' said secretary Richard Cox.

'Our fight for survival has been well publicised and we asked the community for support.

'Chris came forward and offered his services as manager, which we very much appreciated.

'He knows a lot of people in the town and he is getting a squad together.

'There's still a lot of work to be done - but at least we can move forward now.'

The club are holding their annual meeting at Cabbell Park this evening (7.30pm) when the good news will be officially confirmed.