Prior to last season, we ran a really popular series of ‘Getting to Know’ taking a closer look at several of our lesser known non league clubs. So, we thought why not bring this back for a Series Two and find out some more on the clubs that make non league football tick. In our first instalment of this season, we head to South Lincolnshire and Bourne Town. Let’s see what we find out….
The ‘Wakes’ were formed in 1883 starting off in the Peterborough League winning their first title in 1934 and then two more immediately after the war. Bourne Town then went on to compete in the United Counties League, Central Alliance League and the Midland League before a sustained period back in the United Counties League, winning it multiple times. Last season they dominated Division One, finishing on 108 points, and securing promotion to step five.
…but enough on what we already know, as we’ve been lucky enough to be in contact with Chris Good, Chairman of Bourne Town, who was able to give us a real insight into the club.
Firstly, congratulations on your recent success, not only comfortably winning the United Counties Division One title to take your place in the Premier North, but finishing the season on an amazing 108 points. Please sum up your thoughts on how the season went and what this means to the club and the local community to return to step five?
“This season’s success is the result of a collective effort. Our players have shown tremendous skill, resilience, and a winning mentality, consistently performing at their best and overcoming challenges. The coaching staff has been exceptional in preparing the team, tactically and physically, ensuring that we approached every match with the right strategy and mindset.
The support from our fans and the local community has been overwhelming. Their unwavering encouragement, whether at home games or away, has been a driving force behind our success. The sense of unity and pride within the community has been palpable, and it has undoubtedly lifted the team’s spirits. Returning to step five is a significant milestone for Bourne Town FC. It not only validates the efforts and progress we’ve made but also sets a new standard for the club. This achievement boosts our credibility and visibility, attracting potential sponsors, players, and partnerships that can help us continue to grow and improve.”
Please can you tell us the biggest challenges a club the size of Bourne Town faces?
“We are very lucky at Bourne Town FC. We have a large committee of 22 members who all actively help on match days. Our match days are very busy and well supported by fans. Having the ground in the middle of the town has its advantages and we certainly benefit for this.
Our biggest challenge is yet to come as we look to become competitive at Step 5 again.”
So, next season, with Bourne Town competing again at step 5, what are you and the club looking forward to the most for this upcoming year?
“We are looking forward to visiting old grounds that we haven’t been to for over 10 years and new ones that we have never visited.
Many at the club are especially looking forward to hosting and visiting the likes of Deeping Rangers and Boston Town again.”
What’s the aim for next season? Is it just to find your feet at this level, or maybe make a push for the higher places in the league?
“While we’re thrilled with our success, we understand that moving up to the Premier North comes with new challenges. The competition will be tougher, and we’ll need to work even harder to maintain our momentum and achieve our goals. We’re committed to building on our strengths, addressing areas for improvement, and continuing to develop both on and off the pitch.
We aim to deepen our engagement with the local community, ensuring that our success benefits everyone. We’ll be looking at ways to involve more people in the club, whether through youth programs, community events, or partnerships with local organisations. We want Bourne Town FC to be a source of pride and joy for everyone in Bourne.”
How’s the squad looking? Have you managed to retain most from last season, or is it more of a new look squad?
“We have retained 13 of last season’s squad, all of whom have played step 5 or higher before. We have added three new players to the squad but I am sure more new faces will arrive over the next few weeks as we approach the start of the season.”
Please can you tell us a little of the ground that you play in? Are improvements needed due to the promotion?
“Our ground is good enough for Step 5. However we are currently about to start a 6 figure changing room refurbishment and have added some additional covered standing spaces on the East and South side of the ground.”
Please tell us more about your role within the club.
“My role isn’t any different to any other Chairmans at this level. I am very much hands on and helping out match days etc.
I am very lucky that we have a fantastic committee that all muck in and make the club run efficiently!”
Chris, many thanks for your time in speaking with us, and give us more of an insight in to the hard work and effort goes in to maintaining a non league club, but not only that, it shows what enjoyment and sense of togetherness it can have with the local community, which certainly is evident at Bourne Town. Thank you.
We have been fortunate enough to be in contact with Bourne throughout last season, they’ve been kind enough to use our ‘stat pack’ in the matchday programmes a couple of times. They are a great club, and one that we will be watching closely this coming season. We wish them all the best!
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