Paul Merson Evening Sold Out

Paul Merson is set to come to the Green Dragon in Hereford on July 10th.

However the event is currently sold out according to the organisers.

'The Green Dragon Hotel & Purple Sector Events partner to bring you a magnificent night’s entertainment with the one & only Paul Merson!

Come and meet the man himself - get your photo with him and items signed. Listen to some hilarious stories from Paul’s stellar career plus his recent exploits on Harry’s Heroes and Soccer Saturday. And ask him your own question!

With plenty of fun & laughter throughout, this will be an unmissable night with a great atmosphere.'

 

Butlin And Raison Sign New Deals At Hereford

Joey Butlin At Wembley

Two more players have pledged their futures to Hereford for the coming season.

Joey Butlin and Toby Raison are the latest to sign new deals.

'Can’t wait to get going now', said Butlin.

'Delighted to be back, can’t wait to get going again!' said Raison 

Manager Josh Gowling now has twelve players in his squad.

Last Day For Early Bird Season Tickets

Today, June 30th, is the last day to purchase Hereford FC early bird season tickets.

Yesterday the club reported that 850 season tickets have been sold so far.

Club chairman Jon Hale is pleased.

'Absolutely superb. Thank you every single one of you.'

More details at: https://www.herefordfc.co.uk/season-cards-info-on-2021-22-season-cards/

Digie Moves North

24 year old Kennedy Digie has left Edgar Street and signed for National League Altrincham.

The 6ft 4in defender, who signed for Hereford after a number of trial games, spent much of last season on the bench only making seven appearances for the Bulls.

He signed at 4.30 this afternoon and then joined Alty supporters to watch the England Euro game against Germany.

Maidstone United Set To Challenge National League In Court

Maidstone United are set to challenge the National League in court with the hope of exposing their 'ineptitude' according to director Terry Casey.

'Away from playing matters, we are continuing to pursue the National League over the way that their board of directors ignored clear directives from the DCMS to distribute the £10million funding from Camelot and proceeded to give themselves substantially more money than they could ever have received in gate receipts.

We will have our day in court because what happened was so blatantly unjust that we feel that we must expose the league for their ineptitude.

The final nail in the National League’s coffin of integrity came last week with the appointment of a new chairman, a person who was largely responsible for the hopelessly skewed distribution of a £10 million grant, so generously given, but then shared out with so little integrity or honesty.

The National League statement of how the appointment was made and how the decision to appoint Jack Pearce was done fairly – following due process – leaves me with nothing but cynicism.

This is the same National League that refuses to release the independent review panel’s findings, that still refuses to give any explanation as to how they calculated the October distribution, that seems to have no recollections of their conversations with DCMS about how the grants would be turned into loans after January and the same league that conveniently has never kept any minute or records of any of the meetings.

Does the executive of the league expect us to believe that the appointment was made fairly and with due process in the light of what has gone on before? As I said I can only feel the deepest cynicism.

It is regrettable that our expectations of the management’s honesty and governance of football is at an all-time low.'

News Round Up

Former Hereford FC midfielder Arron Birch will be at Worcester City this coming season.

Keeper David Cornell is reported to have joined Peterborough. He made 22 appearances for Hereford in the 2011/12 season whilst on loan from Swansea. 

Chester's Andrew Morris has stressed to the 'Government Led Fan Review' the need for increased support for players at National League North level who are often not eligible for the support available compared to their EFL counterparts for medical expenses and educational opportunities via the PFA.

Striker Nyal Bell has joined Kidderminster after leaving Stockport.

Can You Help The FSA?

This from the FSA:

We're looking for the views of non-league fans on ideas that have been raised during the Government's Fan-led Review, around regionalised leagues and National League governance.

If you can spare 1 minute for a few quick questions, we'd appreciate it.

https://surveymonkey.co.uk/r/non-league-p

 

Rowe Joins Exeter

Callum Rowe has joined Exeter following his release from Aston Villa.

The 21 year old has signed as one year deal.

"Callum came to train with us for a couple of reserve matches at the end of last season. He has a fantastic physical profile and he really impressed us," said manager Matt Taylor.

"We saw enough of him to give him that opportunity. Callum is of a certain age where he will continue to learn, and we hope he can remain fully fit and influence this side."

Rowe had a short spell on loan with Hereford last season.

He joined in January and made his debut at Stamford in the FA Trophy. However a knee injury limited his appearances.

 

National League AGM This Week

The AGM of the National League takes place this week.

One item on the agenda is the formation of teams in each of the three divisions.

Hereford are unlikely to be affected by any change.

The AGM will be chaired by Jack Pearce who recently took over from Brian Barwick.

MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Paul Wheeler - 1990-1991

Best known for his late goal in front of 3,000 travelling Cardiff City fans in 1990. Wheeler celebrated in front of his old supporters with plenty of passion.

Click to read -> MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Paul Wheeler | Herefordshire’s Independent Source of News & Information (yourherefordshire.co.uk)

Gowling Wants Sixteen In For Pre-Season

Hereford manager Josh Gowling has said that he wants sixteen players by by the start of pre-season.

As of this morning he has nine signed up.

They are:

Goalkeeper:

Brandon Hall

Defenders:

Luke Haines

Jared Hodgkiss

Mitch Hancox

Midfielders:

Tom Owen-Evans

Ryan Lloyd

Yan Klukowski

George Forsyth

Ryan McLean 

 

Striker:

 

Miles Storey

"I want to go into pre-season with a few more signings," Gowling told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"Sixteen lads is my aim, hopefully we'll get there."

 

News Round Up

West Brom are the latest club said to be considering an offer to former Hereford United winger Sam Clucas.

King's Lynn expect to lose Sonny Carey to a Championship club with Blackpool a possible destination.

Stockport are the bookies favourite to win the National League title. Currently they are 4/1.

Evesham will share their ground with Bishops Cleeve this coming season.

 

34 Talking Bulls For Sale

34 editions of 'Talking Bull', the Hereford United fanzine, are up for sale by auction.

More details at: https://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb/auction-catalogues/sportingold-limited/catalogue-id-srspor10069/lot-884ab6ed-e198-452e-8e6a-ad5100b3ac40

 

McQuilkin Moves To Stourbridge

Midfielder James McQuilkin has left Hereford and teamed up with Stourbridge.

Manager Mark Yates has been busy as he has also brought in Jason Cowley.

McQuilkin originally came to Edgar Street in summer 2009 and stayed for nearly four seasons until he was released in March 2013.

He returned to Hereford in summer 2020.

Two Year Deal For Ryan McLean At Hereford

Ryan McLean has signed a two year deal with Hereford.

He joined the Bulls from Newcastle Town late last season for an undislosed fee.

"Ryan came to our attention after having a trial at Port Vale and came in on loan, he’ll add a lot of pace to the team, he’s quick, direct, and has a great understanding of the game," said manager Josh Gowling. 

Known as the 'road-runner', McLean played in one game for the Bulls, against Brackley.

He came on as a substitute in the 72nd minute.

Gowling was pleased with his performance.

"He’s a really exciting player, he’s rapid and is a real livewire.

"He’s got great movement and a really good workrate, he likes to get on the ball and create chances.

"Ryan has come in from two league below, but we think we can develop him and push him forward and I really think we’ve got a real good player on our hands."

 

Pre-Season Friendly Against Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury Town will visit Edgar Street for a pre-season friendly on Tuesday July 20th with a 7.45pm kick-off.

Shrewsbury recently signed former Hereford striker Ryan Bowman.

Pre-season Friendlies:

Tue July 13: Westfields (a)

Sat July 17: Redditch United (a)

Tue July 20: Shrewsbury Town (h)

Sat July 24: Cinderford Town (a)

Tue July 27: Cheltenham Town (h)

Sat July 31: Newcastle Town (a)

Tue Aug 3: Hednesford Town (a)

Sat Aug 7: Bath City (h)

 

Five Former Hereford Players At Swindon Supermarine

Frankie Artus

Five former Hereford players are set to turn out for Swindon Supermarine this coming season.

Midfielders Frankie Artus and Pablo Haysham as well as left-back Lewis Hall have been brought in to strengthen the squad. 

They join Martin Horsell and Jamie Edge who were already at the club.

Artus joins following six seasons with Bath.

Haysham is moving from Banbury, and Hall from Weston.

Celebrity Football Match At Edgar Street

Plans are well advanced for a celebrity football match at Edgar Street on Sunday August 8th.

The profits will go to Herefordshire Mind.

Hereford FC is delighted to announce that they are to host a Celebrity Charity Match at Edgar Street.

In aid of Herefordshire mind, the event is organised by Sellebrity Soccer and is set to take place on Sunday August 8th with a 3pm kick-off. It is kindly sponsored by Avara Foods.

About the charity:

“We're Herefordshire Mind, your local mental health charity. We believe no one should have to face a mental health problem alone. We’re here for you, whether you’re stressed, depressed or worried about someone else. We’ll listen, give support, and fight your corner.If you need our help, please get in touch. If you'd like to help us help more, please consider making a donationso, we can continue supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”

All ticketing proceeds will go to Herefordshire Mind, with additional collections on the day. Tickets for this event will be released next week.

Please follow the official Hereford FC website and social media for the announcement. In the meantime, these are some of the celebrities, subject to final confirmation, who are set to take part are Calum Best (TV), James Argent (TV), Jake Wood (Soap Star), Jimmy Constable (911)

About Sellebrity Soccor:

In 2012 Darren Eadie and Kevin Cooper launched Sellebrity Soccer to raise even more money for charity-organising celebrity football matches.

From smaller grounds to Premier League stadiums, they arrange regular, large-scale celebrity football matches across the UK.

To date Sellebrity Soccer has raised over £2,124,189 for charities.

Please Note:

As this is not a Hereford FC event, all terms and conditions of existing season tickets, do not apply.

I Think I'm Direct Said Storey

In an interview with BBC Hereford and Worcester, Hereford's new signing striker Miles Storey has said that he wants to be part of the project to move the Bulls up the leagues.

"I think I'm direct," said Storey.

"My main position is number nine as a striker.

"I play with pace and power."

Storey can also play as a winger.

"I like to use both feet, I like to use both feet, I can shoot with both feet.

"But my thing thing is pace and power, I try to make defenders nervous, I like to work hard and create a threat.

"I'm comfortable with either position, the way I play I get at people, I get dangerous balls into the box when I'm on the wing.

"And when I'm up front I like to play on the shoulder so I've a few strings to my bow which I use to get the better of people and I'm going to try and do that here."

How did the move to Edgar Street happen? 

"I was kind of in conversation with my former club about staying up there and I also had a conversation with Josh on the phone.

"From the first conversation I was really interested in the place.

"I've played for a couple of big clubs and this has got that big club feel and he really sold the place to me.

"It's a project, he wants to get the club back to where they want to be and I want to be part of that and help out. I really like the ambition for the place.

"I know one or two of the other lads who are here already and I spoke to them and they said how good it is and how it all works.

"The manager's desire to get me in was a big thing for me as well. He spoke to me a couple of times and he was trying to get me here.

"I felt wanted and it felt good. It just feels like the right thing to do.

"Obviously I've done a bit of research on the team and I've seen that they had a great end to the season with the cup-run.

"He wants to build on that in pre-season and be flowing for the first game. So I was more than happy to get it done and get myself back down here and just concentrate on my football."

Full interview: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p09mg461

National League Has A New Chairman

Jack Pearce has been appointed as the new Chairman of The National League.

A vice-chair of The FA since 2015 and divisional representative on the FA Council since 2001, Pearce has served on The National League Board for more than a decade.

Pearce replaces outgoing Brian Barwick, who officially stood down from the position following Sunday’s Promotion Final.

Pearce was formerly a player and manager of Bognor Regis Town and continues to serve the club as its general manager and vice-chairman. He also represents Sussex County FA and is a trustee of the Football Foundation.

“I’m honoured to accept this opportunity to lead the Board and National League team in addressing the challenges the League and its Member Clubs have faced over the last 18 months,” Pearce commented.

“I firmly believe that by working together with our clubs we can successfully move the League forward”.

A National League spokesperson said, “After a thorough recruitment process, which included national advertising for the position and a two-stage interview process with our shortlisted candidates, we are delighted to appoint Jack Pearce as Chairman of The National League.

“Jack’s vast knowledge and number of prestigious roles within football, in addition to a strong relationship with Member Clubs, made him the outstanding candidate”.

General manager of The National League Mark Ives said, “Having had the privilege of working with Jack, not only in the six months I’ve been with the League, but in my previous nineteen years at the Football Association, it is without doubt an excellent appointment.

“Jack brings to the role a wealth of contacts and experience at this level of the game.

“It is important there is a link between the Board and the General Manager, interweaving the day-to-day operation and strategic direction of the Competition. For me, the relationship I have with Jack will be a huge benefit to The National League”.

MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Richard Jones - 1988-1993

One of four players with the surname Jones at the club in the early 1990's. The classy midfielder is todays guest.

Click to read -> MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Richard Jones | Herefordshire’s Independent Source of News & Information (yourherefordshire.co.uk)

Miles Storey Joins Bulls

Miles Storey is Josh Gowling's latest signing at Hereford.

27 year old Storey is a striker who has recently been playing in Scotland. His last club was Inverness Calendonian Thistle. Reportedly he failed to agree a new deal with them for a third season.

Two weeks ago a club statement said: “The club has also offered a new contract to Miles Storey with head coach Billy Dodds having been in direct contact most recently with Miles last Thursday."

He started his senior career with Swindon in 2011 and had spells out on loan at Salisbury, Shrewsbury, Portsmouth and Newport.

Then in 2015 a move on loan to Inverness.

Released by Swindon he signed for Aberdean in 2016 and a year later joined Patrick Thistle for two season before a return to Inverness.

"He’s a number nine, but he can also play in wide areas, he can play left and right, and something we probably lacked last season was a bit of pace and he’s bringing that," said Gowling.

"He’s a big boy and strong, but he’s got a lot of pace. I’ve got some friends up in Scotland who have said he’s the quickest player they’ve ever seen!"

Storey said he's been looking to get back to English football and knows several of the Hereford squad.

"Josh really sold the place to me, it’s a project and he wants to get the club back to where it was. I really liked the ambition about the place, and I’ve spoken to a couple of lads here who I know, and they’ve said how good it is."

Storey has played for the England U19's.

More at: https://www.herefordfc.co.uk/new-signing-miles-storey-is-latest-new-recruit/

Smith Stays At Leamington

 

Former Hereford striker Lance Smith has signed a new season long deal at Leamington.

He will hope that he will be able to take part in many more games this season after Covid and injury curtailed his playing time last season.

"Personally I felt last season was good and bad. It was good to get games under my belt but bad to pick up some injuries," said Smith.

"However, having such a stop start season helped me. As a group I thought it was a great season - I thoroughly enjoyed it. The squad played and competed at a high level and we had some great highs. I felt welcome right from the start and can’t wait to get going this season. 

"I’m looking forward to playing in front of the fans so they can see me play in the flesh for the first time, and would like to progress and stay as fit as possible to show what I can do for the team and for Leamington FC."

Level Of Trust Needs Restoring Said Barwick

The National League season ended last weekend and board chairman Brian Barwick has stood down.

It's been a difficult season for most clubs but especially for those in National North and South. Promised funding did not come up to expectation for many clubs and there was a feeling that the League board failed in its role to look after some of its member clubs.

Recently there was a vote of no confidence in the board but this failed because the League do not have a system of one club one vote.

"There has to be some work done at restoring a level of trust," Barwick told BBC Sport.

"If there are any lessons to be learned or a need to pull the league together, there may be opportunities through a new chair and a new general manager and a couple of new board members."

The former chairman spoke about his time in charge before the play-off final.

"I have been in a lot of roles where part of the reality of the position is that you come in for a level of criticism. Sometimes it's fair, sometimes it's unfair and sometimes it's very unfair," he said.

"But I always believe a bit of dignity and class goes a long way.

"Sure it has been tough. Yes, some of it has been personal. In the end you have to accept some of it - but not all of it. You don't have to read all of it or see all of it. But you don't ignore it. It is the reality to the people who are saying it and you have to respect it.

"But it is also true that we have been hit, as a global sport, with something we have never had to manage before and I pray we won't have to do so again."

Hereford United Stadium 'Model' For Sale

A unique model of Hereford United's stadium is for sale.

Made circa 1986 by John Le Maitre using traditional modelling techniques and materials including cork and hardboard with a felt pitch. 

All the models featured on Blue Peter on the 8th May 1986 and provide a unique snapshot of how the English football league grounds looked during the 1980’s. 38 of the 93 grounds featured are no longer in existance. 

Condition: Good. Base size approximately 45 x 38cm.

More details: https://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb/auction-catalogues/graham-budd-auctions-ltd/catalogue-id-srgrah10028/lot-5117f926-482b-4488-97b1-ad50010c009d

News Round Up

York City report that 550 season tickets have been sold in the first two days of being on sale.

Hereford continue to look for staff. Amidst the vacant paid positions are a food and beverage manager, an office administration apprentice and a digital marketing apprentice.

The National League has announced that the 2021-22 fixtures will be issued on Wednesday, July 7th at 1pm.

Peter Crouch has been appointed a director of Dulwich Hamlet. 

Another Hereford Player Who Has Represented His Country

Dan Connor

Following Peter Gulacsi's heroics for Hungary in Euro 2000, BN has been trying to list all the keepers who have played for Hereford and also represented their country at either senior level or at under 21 level.

One name missing from the list is that of Dan Connor.

Connor joined Hereford in July 2010 but later sustained a hip injury which kept him sidelined. 

He made seven appearances for the Republic of Ireland under 21's. 

Thanks to Young Salmon for Connor's name.

Two More Players Agree Deals At Hereford

Two more of last season's squad, Yan Klukowski and George Forsyth,  have agreed deals to stay with Hereford.

Yan Klukowski will continue as his role as player-coach.

Defender George Forsyth will be hopeful he can play a bigger part for the Bulls this coming season.

He only arrived at Edgar Street in late December from Halesowen therefore his opportunities were limited.

"He’s very comfortable in possession of the ball and at 23 he is someone who I feel still has plenty of time to develop as a player and really push on,” said manager Josh Gowling. 

Plenty Of Opportunities To Tidy Edgar Street

There are plenty of opportunities for supporters to help out at the home of Hereford FC.

The club says that Edgar Street is in need of 'some extra care and attention' before the season starts. Volunteers are required to help out with painting, weeding, cleaning and tidying.

They are also looking for 'trade professionals' who might be able to assist with other jobs.

Anyone interested in helping is asked to fill a form on the club site.

More at: https://www.herefordfc.co.uk/volunteers-stadium-working-groups/

News Round Up

Former Hereford kitman Roger Lloyd has retired from a similar post at Westfields.

Chester have reported sales of just over 700 season tickets for the forthcoming campaign.

Pre-season training starts at Darlington on Thursday evening. They have a squad of 14 at present.

Craig King is joining Frickley Athletic. He had a loan spell with Hereford United from Leicester in 2009/10 and scored on his debut six minutes into a game against Accrington Stanley.

Hall Stays At Hereford

 

Brandon Hall is staying at Hereford for a further season. He is the sixth player to sign up for the forthcoming campaign.

The goalkeeper has been a regular in manager Josh Gowling's starting eleven since last December.

"Since coming back into the team he has been tremendous and was a big part in our success last term," said Gowling.

"He is an excellent professional and really wants to kick on this season with the team.

"I’m delighted that he has agreed a new deal."  

More at: https://www.herefordfc.co.uk/player-news-brandon-hall-agrees-new-deal-with-bulls/

Solihull's Released List

Last week Hereford signed Mitch Hancox who had previously been with Solihull.

Whilst he didn't play many games for Solihull, it's thought that at one level down he could do very well for the Bulls.

Also released by Solihull at the same time as Hancox were Stephen Glesson and Ryan Boot.

Glesson is a former Hereford United player who was signed by Graham Turner on loan from Wolves in February 2008.

He came to Edgar Street when both Toumani Diagouraga and Ben Smith had injury problems.

Turner felt Glesson would 'give us a little bit more balance in midfield'

As regards keeper Ryan Boot, it appears his name on the released list came as a surprise to Solihull supporters as he was thought to have had a good season.

With no news about the future of keeper Brandon Hall at Hereford to date, may be Boot is someone manager Josh Gowling might be interested in.

MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Steve Devine - 1985-1993

Popular left back Steve Devine is featured today.

Click to read -> MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Steve Devine | Herefordshire’s Independent Source of News & Information (yourherefordshire.co.uk)

Photo supplied by Ron Parrott

NEWS | Former Hereford United player Idris Niblett celebrates his 90th Birthday

A former Hereford United player has recently celebrated his 90th birthday.

Idris Niblett was part of the team that played Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup 3rd round in 1958.

A record crowd of 18,144 packed into Edgar Street that afternoon. Idris wore his Hereford shirt to celebrate his big day.

Click for more -> NEWS | Former Hereford United player celebrates his 90th Birthday | Herefordshire’s Independent Source of News & Information (yourherefordshire.co.uk)

Halesowen Sign Harry White

Harry White

Former Hereford striker Harry White has joined Halesowen.

White played for Hereford for the first part of the 2018/19 season before deciding to move to Australia and play for Oakleigh Cannons.

On his return he joined Stratford Town. 

"I am delighted to join Halesowen," said White.

A club that’s going places for sure.

​"I had a number of offers on the table, but looking at the facilities and brilliant fan base here, added to the fact I’ve played for the gaffa before, and I loved playing for him made this the perfect fit."

Meanwhile another former Hereford player is on the move.

James Bowen has teamed up with Boldmere St Michaels. 

Another Two Hereford Keepers To Add To International List

BN readers have remembered two more former Hereford players that made appearances for their country to add to the nine already mentioned.

Tommy Hughes, who was with Hereford for nine seasons from 1973 to 1982, made two appearances for Scotland Under 23's.

Jose Veiga joined Hereford in late December 2008 but only started one game. He has kept goal for Cape Verde fourteen times. 

Thanks to Paul Rogers for the information.

 

Two More 'Hereford' Keepers Played For Their Country

Since our article http://bullsnews.blogspot.com/2021/06/seven-hereford-keepers-have-played-for.html was posted yesterday two more names have emerged.

Jim Blyth, who came to Hereford on loan from Coventry in 1975, played two games for Scotland.

Lyn Davies played for Hereford in 68/69. He made one appearance for Wales U23 in 1966.

Thanks to Nigel Preece and Mike Wilce for the information. 

Are there any others?

Seven 'Hereford' Keepers Have Played For Their Country

Darren Randolph (Left) With Craig Samson

Earlier today Peter Gulacsi played for Hungary in their Euro game against France which prompted the question how many other 'Hereford' keepers have kept goal for their country. 

We think there are six others. There may be more.

Matt Murray - Five appearances for the English under 21's

Darren Randolph - Fifty appearances for the Republic of Ireland

Jonathan Gould - Two appearances for Scotland

Craig Samson - Six appearances for the Scottish under 21's 

Roger Freestone - One appearance for Wales

George Wood - Four appearances for Scotland

'Hereford' Keepers Who Played For Their Country

 

This afternoon Peter Gulacsi kept goal for Hungary in their 1-1 draw against France in the Euro 2020 competition. 

Back in 2009 he was playing for Hereford on loan from Liverpool.

And there have been several other keepers, all of which came to Edgar Street on loan, who have also played for their country including at under 21 level.

We'll name them later. 

News Round Up

The fan led football review panel has heard 23 hours of evidence so far this week. More sessions next week.

Reece Styche has signed for Hednesford. The former Hereford striker started his senior football career with the Pitmen.

Mick Panniers has been appointed Director of Football at Pegasus Juniors.

Hancox Joins Bulls

Hereford manager Josh Gowling has added left-sided Mitch Hancox to his squad. 

Hancox was with Solihull Moors last season and was in their squad that took part in a pre-season behind closed doors friendly at Edgar Street last September.

"Mitch is a very dynamic player, attacking and exciting to watch," said Gowling.

"His main position is left-back but he can play anywhere down the left-hand side." 

Hancox has played at Edgar Street so knows the set-up.

“I’m really glad to have got the deal done and I’m looking forward to getting into pre-season training next month," he said.

27 year old Hancox started his career with hometown club Birmingham City for whom he made his debut in October 2012.

In the 2015–16 season, he spent three months on loan at Crawley. However he was released by Birmingham at the end of that season and signed for National League club Macclesfield in August 2016. 

After two years, during which he helped Macclesfield win the National League title, he moved on to M K Dons.

Hancox joined his hometown club Solihull Moors in May 2019, and spent time on loan to another National League club Harrogate at the end of that year.

 

Hereford's Pre-Season Friendlies

Hereford FC have released a list of all their pre-season friendlies to date.

As well as the ones already known about, they've added Cheltenham Town, Cinderford, Hednesford and Redditch to the list.

Tuesday 13th July – Westfields – Away
Saturday 17th July – Redditch – Away
Tuesday 20th July – Opposition TBC – Home
Saturday 24th July – Cinderford – Away
Tuesday 27th July – Cheltenham Town – Home
Saturday 31st July – Newcastle Town – Away
Tuesday 3rd August – Hednesford Town – Away
Saturday 7th August – Bath City – Home

The National North season is set to start on Saturday August 14th. 

Bowman Signs For Shrewsbury

Bowman Celebrates A Goal For Hereford Against Shrewsbury In FA Cup

Former Hereford United striker Ryan Bowman has signed for Shrewsbury Town. 

He's moving from Exeter for an undisclosed fee.

"There is a shortage of free agents up top," said Shrewsbury manager Steve Cotterill. 

"We've ended up paying a fee for Ryan but I think it will be money well spent.

"He's all action. He does everything. He's played up front by himself which is a rarity these days. He runs hard, quick and in behind teams.

"He holds the ball up well and has a good touch for a big man. He scored 14 goals last season, none of them penalties. I don't see any reason why he won't score as many goals here as he has for Exeter."

MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Max Nicholson 1992-1994

The tricky winger is today's guest.

Click for more -> MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Max Nicholson | Herefordshire’s Independent Source of News & Information (yourherefordshire.co.uk)

Photo supplied by Ron Parrott

Hereford FC Are Looking For A 'Food And Beverage Manager'

Hereford FC have a vacancy for a  full-time 'food and beverage' manager following the decision to bring bars and hospitality in house.

The club are asking that candidates must have at least 2 years of food and beverage experience preferably in a senior operational management role, and be highly motivated, consistent in their approach, and be able to successfully deliver the values of the Club.

Pay is £24,000 per annum plus bonus based on profit. 

Full details at: https://www.herefordfc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Food-and-Beverage-Manager.pdf

Applications must be in by June 28th. The club say hat should a suitable candidate be found before the deadline, they may close the vacancy early. 

Dover Chairman Hits Out At FA

Dover chairman Jim Parmenter has hit out at the FA after they rejected his appeal against a £40,000 fine and 12 point deduction for failing to play fixtures and putting their squad on furlough.

Parmenter had been back-rolling Dover for several seasons but had decided not to invest further. The club might have been able to take out a loan but Parmenter didn't want to.

Then the FA questioned why Parmenter couldn't continue to support the club.

"What it highlights is it’s not truly an independent system and the system’s failed here," said Parmenter as reported by KentOnline.

"I definitely believe that. I was surprised and disappointed by the result, but I was quite angered by the written reasons... The fact we weren’t able to project the next five years when we were in the middle of a pandemic doesn’t seem to me to be relevant.

'The suggestion my personal financial information should have been made public in order to support our case when we’re dealing with a football club that’s a limited company should be a warning to anybody that’s thinking of investing in a football club or supporting a football club financially, because it seems the FA deem it their right to decide how much you should be putting into a club and how much you shouldn’t, and I’m frankly disgusted by that.

'We’ve had to cut our budget. Despite suggestions to the contrary, we’re going to be on probably 50 per cent of the budget we had last year but this is Dover and we’ll be fighting like hell next season. We’re going to start with a 12-point deduction but that’s something for us to target and aim at and try and get over.

'I think it’s commonly thought that we’ve been treated quite badly, and unfairly, and I still hold that true. I think the football system has failed us, I think the FA have failed us and I think the general public and the town and the area need to get behind the club to show they think we’ve been unfairly treated'.

 

News Round Up

Former Hereford FC striker Brad Ash has moved to Weymouth from Chippenham Town.

Speculation that Ryan Bowman might join Cheltenham has been quashed. The former Hereford United striker has one year left on his contract at Exeter but it seems the Grecians remain open to offers for him.

Kidderminster season tickets went on sale earlier today with the dearest early bird tickets costing £315.

York City Supporters’ Trust have been invited to give evidence to the Government’s fan-led review of football governance. They will take part in an hour-long, one-to-one session with an expert panel next Monday.

 

News Round Up

Cheltenham Town have signed goalkeeper Owen Evans from Wigan. Evans was a youth player with Hereford United until he moved to Wigan in 2014.

Curzon Ashton, one of several National North clubs to be fined for not playing matches, have been fined £8,000 plus costs. "Common sense has not prevailed in light of unprecedented circumstances and false promises," they say.

Herefordshire FA will be running a new group every Monday, starting on June 28th, between 5-6pm called 'Walking Football for All'. They aim to help those who might be suffering with their mental health.

Hereford FC sponsors the Beefy Boys are celebrating ten years in business.

Former Hereford United defender Will Evans has been released by Chesterfield after three seasons with the club. 

Bundu helps Sierra Leone qualify for Africa Cup of Nations

Former Hereford FC player Mustapha Bundu has helped Sierra Leone qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations.

The attacker - who was on loan at FC Copenhagen from Anderlecht last season - started for the West African side in a 1-0 win over Benin.

The victory saw Sierra Leone finish above their opponents into second place in Group L.

Another friendly added to Hereford's pre-season schedule

Hereford will host Bath City a week before the new league season gets underway.

Jerry Gill's side - who play at the same level as the Bulls in National League South - will come to Edgar Street on Saturday, August 7.

You can view Hereford's pre-season fixtures here.

Grimes joins National League club

Jamie Grimes has joined Chesterfield after deciding to leave Hereford.

Talking to the Spireites' official website, the central defender said he felt the National League club 'are going in the right direction'.

"I pride myself on being very strong aerially and I like a battle," said Grimes.

"I love a clean sheet and anything else is a bonus."

Chesterfield - who lost to Notts County in the National League Play Off Eliminator - are managed by former Gloucester boss James Rowe. 

Reduction In Fines For Some National North League Clubs

This from the FA:

The FA has today published the outcomes of appeals from a number of clubs against sanctions by the National League during the 2020/21 season. 

An independent Appeal Board considered three appeals on 29 April 2021 against sanctions from the National League for failing to fulfil fixtures by Blyth Spartans FC, Farsley Celtic FC and Spennymoor Town FC. 

The independent Appeal Board ordered the below varied terms to their original sanctions following agreement by the National League and the respective clubs:

• Blyth Spartans FC: 50% of their £6,000 fine is now suspended. Their suspended two point deduction remains; 
• Farsley Celtic FC: 50% of their £4,200 fine is now suspended. Their suspended two point deduction remains
• Spennymoor Town FC: 50% of their £4,200 fine is now suspended. Their suspended two point deduction remains.

An independent Appeal Board heard 11 further appeals between 03 June 2021 and 11 June 2021 against sanctions from the National League for failing to fulfil fixtures by the following clubs: 

• Alfreton Town FC;
• Bath City FC;
• Bradford Park Avenue FC;
• Chippenham Town FC;
• Curzon Ashton FC;
• Darlington Football Club;
• Dover Athletic FC;
• Dulwich Hamlet FC;
• Kettering Town FC;
• Slough Town FC;
• Southport FC.

Each of these appeals were dismissed by the independent Appeal Board and the written reasons for its respective decisions can be accessed on the FA site  

An independent Appeal Board also heard an appeal from Southport FC on 09 June 2021 in relation to a COVID-19 test that was upheld and its written reasons for the decision can also be found on the FA site.

https://www.thefa.com/news/2021/jun/15/appeal-board-decisions-150621

Footnote: Dover are set to be fined £40K and have a 12 point deduction as their appeal has failed.

A Look Back At Why The Club Bars Were Outsourced

With the news that both the bars and hospitality at Hereford are to be brought back in house BN looks back to 2017 and a Fans Forum and why they were outsourced.

Ken Kinnersley was chairman at the time.

Currently the Bars in the Stadium are outsourced – are there plans to bring them back into the Club? (from the floor)

“They are not out sourced as such – it is a partnership. In the beginning the situation was appraised by professionals and we were advised that we would be lucky to get anyone to run the bars due to the existing credit rating the club had at that time. The most we were advised we could expect in income was £10k.

Initially, there was some interest in operating the bars from a group of fans, possibly with HUST involvement, not sure on that point, so the Club requested a business plan be presented from any interested group for discussion. Business plans were never produced or delivered, to my knowledge - so in the end it wasn't an option.

We also took advice from other Clubs in a similar position. Eventually we had discussions with James Smith – who did present a business plan - and the club entered into an Event partnership with him. It was the right thing in terms of managing the risk as the liability was then handed over to James rather than the Club. Basically his means the Club has no worries over food stocks, food hygiene, licensing, H&S, stock management in all its forms, staffing, I.e. bar staff, kitchen staff, waitresses, chefs, cover for illness, or the general management of either events or staff. It is very difficult to operate a business when you only trade on average two days a month and staff labour is only required on those days. Originally Sidney Phillips estimated a £10,000 maximum income but with James Smith the Club has actually secured £30,000 income from the partnership. James Smith is now operating an “open book” policy with his accounts and one of the HFC Directors conducts regular inspections so we better understand the financial implications of the arrangement."

In January 2018, director George Webb was asked a similar question at the club's AGM.

The decision not to do the catering in-house was explained by director George Webb. He had spoken to directors at Merthyr who had brought their catering in-house recently and had started to lose money on it. Pilfering was mentioned. Webb felt that having a regular income for catering was a better bet than the club trying to run it.

Part of the problem he said was that there are only home games once a fortnight or so. Stock can go out of date and it's hard to recruit staff whereas if an outside company is running the catering they can move stock to another venue.

HUST To Continue To Run 50/50 Draw

It has been agreed that HUST will continue to run the 50/50 match day draw.

This from HUST:  

HUST is pleased to announce that in agreement with the Club we will continue to run Match Day Draws for season 2021-22. This includes the 50/50 Match Day Draw and the Golden Goal. HUST will continue to pay in the profits from these to the Club in exchange for shares purchase.

The target date to achieve 50% shares purchase has been extended to 31st May 2022. Our other fundraising will also apply to this revised date.

May’s tranche of £6,000 took the HUST Shareholding and Fan Ownership to £246,000, which is 46% of the shares issued and paid for. The target is to reach is £289,000. With a ‘fully open’ society after Covid-19 lockdowns we believe the coming year offers good opportunities to achieve the target we have long set ourselves.

 

In-House Hospitality Back At Edgar Street

When Hereford FC was formed a decision was taken to out-source the running of the bars and hospitality. In return the club received a 'fee' from the provider.

Whilst this may have been the correct policy at the time, questions were asked at several AGM's about the decision. Director George Webb felt it was better to have a fee than have the club run the hospitality partly because it was uncertain just how much income it would bring in.

There was also the problem with bringing in part-time staff just for a few hours on a Saturday.

That policy is to change.

Rob Crawford is the director in charge of operations at Hereford.

"Six seasons have now passed, and we feel that now is the correct time to bring control of the bars and hospitality rooms in-house. We believe that this will enable us to offer a more fan-centered approach and help to make Edgar Street a 7-day-a-week venue.

“The revenue from the bars will also play a vital role in helping us to provide Josh with as strong a playing budget as possible, and we hope that with the knowledge that every penny spent over the bars will go towards helping the football club continue to grow, even more fans will make use of the facilities, both on a matchday and during the week.

“We will shortly be advertising for a Bar Manager who will be responsible for not only the managing of the matchday bars, but they will also be tasked with helping to make Edgar Street a multi-use venue for functions, meetings, parties or a catch-up with your mates whilst watching the football!"

James Smith, who ran the bars for several years, has agreed to help the club make the change.

More at: https://www.herefordfc.co.uk/news-bars-and-hospitality-to-be-run-in-house/

HUST Welcome Club Board Additions

HUST have welcomed the addition of Mike Langford and Jon Hale to the Hereford club board.

This from HUST:


The HUST Board is delighted with the swift acceptance of Mike Langford as our third Nominated Director. Mike was an 'original' HFC director back at the formation of the Club representing HUST. He knows the territory. We are delighted that Mike would like to return to the fold again. Mike says “I am pleased to have been chosen the third HUST Nominated Director on the Hereford FC Board. The past 2 Covid affected seasons have been tough for supporters and financially for the Club. Josh and Steve are building a team to take us towards our goal of returning to the Football League and I would ask everyone to get behind them and if possible, purchase a 50/50 or golden goal ticket and if you can, join HUST.”

We are also pleased with the announcement that Jon Hale has been reappointed as Chair of Hereford FC. With Jon joining Mike in the HFC Board Room again, the HFC Board is fully resourced and has a wide skills base. We are sure our members and supporters at large will share this assessment.

Rob Crawford steps back as Club Chairman but remains on the Board. He did a splendid job, together with the other Board members, in stabilising the Club throughout the Covid emergency. We are sure all supporters will join us in saying “Thank you, Rob!”.

One of Jon Hale's strengths is supporter interaction. Whether they are season ticket holders, regular attendees at Edgar Street or those who, because they live far away, can only come to home games from time to time. Many of those distant supporters still contribute to the Club they love through such things as the HUST 50/50 draw, the Golden Goal etc, or by simply making donations, all of which is fed into the Club finances.

Nothing is guaranteed of course, but when adding in Josh Gowling and Steve Burr to the mix, there are definitely optimistic signs for the future of our great Club. We look forward to working with Jon and his Board, in what will hopefully be a constructive and rewarding time.

News Round Up

Former Hereford FC player Matt MacDonald has joined Westfields.

The National League play-off final between Torquay and Hartlepool takes place at Ashton Gate, Bristol next Sunday.

Speculation that Jamie Grimes, who quit Hereford today, may be offered a deal at Chesterfield.

650 supporters have renewed their season tickets at Chester.

Grimes decides to leave Hereford

Influential defender Jamie Grimes has decided to leave Hereford.

The 30-year-old has posted the following on his Twitter page.

It’s been a very tough decision for me but I am leaving @HerefordFC . Thanks to the staff, players and fans. We made some great memories and I have no doubt the club will really kick on next season. All the best ⚽️ #thebulls #hereford pic.twitter.com/uSdTpFVa34

— Jamie Grimes (@jamiegrimes90) June 14, 2021

Hale Hopes To Increase Gowling's Budget

Hereford chairman Jon Hale is hoping that good season ticket sales will enable the board to increase manager Josh Gowling's budget which, at present, is reported to be the same as last season.

"The more people we can get into games and buying season tickets, hopefully the better budget we can offer," Hale told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"But it's all about looking where we are, where we've come from in the last 16 months which has been difficult for everybody and I just get that feeling that the momentum is building again for that first game in August.

"It would be great to see 3000 or 4000 here and everyone go home happy again.

"It's difficult to set a budget because we don't know if Covid restrictions mean we can only have 2000 or 1000 in the ground. Obviously that affects things badly.

"Everybody in sport has learnt from the last 16 months in terms of putting provisions in to save yourself from oblivion.

"We've set a budget, it's a competitive budget. Josh knows what he's got to play with and he is happy with that and he's looking forward to making the most of it and we're very confident he will.

"It's not an absolute top end budget. I wouldn't profess to know exactly what top end budgets are, but we're not at that level.

"We are at a competitive level that we feel can really put us up there somewhere in the mix and Josh is determined to make sure we do that.

"We've seen the players he has signed in his short time as manager, they've been good quality signings and we've got every faith in him that he will do that again and make the absolute most of every penny and try and push us on to the next level." 

Hale thinks there will be a lot of quality players around.

"You look at Hereford and you look at the ground and look at the support and you look at the momentum behind the club, I think we have every chance of signing some good players, some really good players who are going to entertain the crowds.

"The style that Josh plays, his reputation, Steve Burr's reputation, all goes towards building towards the future.

"If a player comes and has a look at this stadium and sees what we've got I'm convinced that they would like to come and play at this stadium and try and push us up.

"We're on a project, we want players who are hungry to play for the football club and push us on.

"I'm very confident that's what we will get."

Gowling Hopes To Bring In Experience

 

Hereford manager Josh Gowling doesn't want a repeat of last pre-season when very few players were signed by the first friendly.

"The last pre-season we had about four players," Gowling told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"This time it's good we've had games because last pre-season we had muscle injuries.

"It's good we've only got a five week break rather than a five month break.

"It means we can be a bit more selective with pre-season whereas last season we had to have a pretty hard pre-season because of the longer lay-off.

"We're going to be back at the start of July. I'd like to have a little camp if we can. We might have to look at raising funds to do that just to get the lads away, better team bonding."

Gowling was asked about the players who have been released in particular Chris Camwell.

"Camy is a great lad. I'm not going to go into the reasons why he's not here but we've had a conversation.

"The door is not closed for Camy. He's got a great left foot, we all know that. There's aspects that he hasn't fulfilled I suppose I would say. I want him to go away and fulfill them. If he does then the door is open for him so we might see him back next year.

"We've got to look at the squad and what we can squeeze out of the squad and look at areas where we are lacking.

"The squad last year was built on Dan Jones, Jake Wright, Giles Coke and Lenny. Four really key experienced players. Obviously they've gone during the season and we've had a young squad since they've gone.

"But I do think sometimes in a pressure-cooker environment like the Trophy final you need experience to call upon which Hornchurch had.

"We'll have to cut our cloth accordingly to get that experience in."

MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Peter Heritage - 1991-1992

The Wing Commander Peter Heritage is today's featured player.

Click for more -> MY HEREFORD UNITED STORY | Peter Heritage | Herefordshire’s Independent Source of News & Information (yourherefordshire.co.uk)

We're In A Very Good Position To Move On Said Hale

Jon Hale

Hereford FC chairman Jon Hale feels that the club is in 'a very good position' to move on.

But speaking to BBC Hereford and Worcester on his return to the top post he thought the club needed to embrace everyone who was interested if that was to happen.

"I think we are in a very good position now, a very good platform, to move onto the next stage," said Hale.

"Obviously things have levelled out over the past couple of years which I suppose we possibly knew that would happen.

"But now we've got a very good manager in place, stability on the club board, so I feel now we can really grab it by the neck and go forward, push on and look towards the leagues above us.

"Nobody could have predicted that we would have had those first three years where we had consecutive promotions. It was incredible.

"I don't think it pushed the club along too quickly but I think there was always going to be a time when the club probably had to take stock a little bit and the of course Covid came along as well so it's been a tough, tough for the football club as a whole.

"But I think we've riden the storm very well and I think now people are bursting to get back in here and we can start to move on."

The season is set to start on the second Saturday of August.

"Until we are told otherwise we have to plan on that basis in terms of having every aspect of the club has to be ready for that.

"Season tickets going on sale will give us a good measure as to see where we are in terms of the interest.

"Obviously we're excited to get people back in the ground and look forward to a decent crowd, a nice sunny day and three points."

Given the break people can get out of the habit of going to football.

"They can and I think that was always the worry when we had to restart the club because there had been that gap and people do find other things to do.

"But the general feel about the place and reading people's comments and talking to people is that the interest is there. We just have to make sure that we've got a football club that they want to either visit or take an interest in and I'm very keen that we reach out to every supporter whereever they are and make them realise how valuable they are to us now as a supporter.

"Whether you can into the ground on a Saturday or watch the game or listen to the game or whatever it might be, everybody is as important as everybody else.

"We want to really create a club where all the layers of the club bond together. If we can do that we can push forward together and have some success I believe."

Gowling Speaks About Building His Squad

Hereford manager Josh Gowling has been speaking about building his squad for the forthcoming season. Four players are already signed and altogether Gowling hopes he can keep 12 or so players from last season.

One of those players already signed is Ryan Lloyd.

"His work goes unnoticed, his work rate is unbelievable," Gowling told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

Gowling compared Lloyd with Kyle Finn who has just left the club. Finn was 'getting 12K in a game'.

"Lloyd is not far off that in our engine room.

"He rotates well, he covers players when they are not doing their work. He's efficent.

"I'm glad that he has committed to us to the end of the season and he's got that experience as well."

Another is captain Jared Hodgkiss.

"For me he has been phenominal this season. He's led well.

"I'd love the fans to see what he does in training because his influence in the squad is massive because of his experience. He wants thing done properly.

"I'm glad he's here again. I don't think he gets enough credit."

Gowing recently revealed that there has been interest in both Brandon Hall and Jamie Grimes.

"There's interest in a couple of others as well which happens when you play well. We've made them offers and it's up to them what they want to do with those offers.

"There will be a deadline on that because we've got to look at recruiting, we can't be left short going into pre-season like we were last year. So there will be deadlines on those offers. We will speak to them this week and I expect a decision and if it's they are going elsewhere then fine.

"We've got targets of our own that are waiting for us to make a decision on them coming in.

"The rest of the lads we are talking to so I'd like to think over the next week or so we'll have a few more signings coming in.

"The big thing for me is retaining the squad. I know we lost the final but at the end of the day the experience is invaluable so if we can keep 12,13,14 players together then add 4,5,6 to that squad to make the team better then we'll be a force next year. So that's what we are looking to do."