Crewe Alexandra - a potted history

Crewe Alexandra's last three year's history is detailed below:

 

For a full history, more info is shown HERE (courtesy official Crewe web site).

 

2010/11

The Railwaymen miss out on a play-off place by just three points after a fairly consistent season in npower League Two. The club finish in 10th place mainly because of a run of 12 away defeats on the trot from January to April. The club's impressive home kept us in the running for a top seven place with just four teams winning at Gresty Road throughout the campaign.

Dario Gradi won the Manager of the Month award in January as Crewe moved into the third automatic spot but that honour prompted a dismal run on the road that was eventually ended on the final day of the season with a emphatic 5-1 at Bradford City. Clayton Donaldson scored his 29th goal of the season at his hometown club that day to finish the season as the leading scorer in the division - one ahead of our former striker Ryan Lowe, who led Bury to promotion.

Sadly at the conclusion of the season, the club lost its long serving kit man John Fleet. The 65-year-old had served the club for 31 years but sadly passed away on 10th May 2011.

2011/12 -

 

Dario Gradi stepped down from the managerial role in November 2011 and recommended his assistant Steve Davis for the position. Crewe went on to secure a play-off place on the back of a club record run. After overcoming Southend United 3-2 over two-legs in the play-off semi-final, the Railwaymen marched to Wembley for only the third time in the club's history.

Over 14,000 Crewe fans saw Nick Powell score one of the best solo goals ever seen at the new Wembley to put us ahead against Cheltenham. Byron Moore settled things in the 82nd minute and captain Dave Artell led the team up the Wembley steps to lift the npower League Two Trophy.

 

 

That summer Powell joins Manchester United for an undisclosed fee.

2012/13

Crewe Alexandra adjusted well to life in League One finishing safely in mid-table with a points tally of 64 points. A fairly consistent season saw the Railwaymen defeat the likes of Sheffield United, Doncaster, Coventry, Swindon and Preston North End.

Another superb season was completed with a 2-0 win over Southend United in the final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy. Luke Murphy opened the scoring after six minutes from a cleverly worked corner, before Max Clayton gave us some breathing space with a close range finish just minutes into the second half.

It was the first time that Crewe had lifted the Football League Trophy and completed a remarkable 12 months under Steve Davis.

 

Hard work ahead for Massey at Truro City (by Rhod Mitchell - West Briton)

West Briton link

Steve Massey and his new-look Truro City squad will get together for the first time this week when pre-season training starts ahead of their opening friendly against League One outfit Crewe Alexandra next Friday.

Massey, who is in his third spell in charge at Treyew Road after taking over from Lee Hodges, knows it will take time to forge a new team capable of challenging for honours in the Evo-Stik League Southern Premier Division.

Massey has had a hectic few weeks as he assembles his squad – and midfielder Jordan Copp and central defender Paul Kendall, who both joined City towards the end of last season, are the latest pieces in the jigsaw after agreeing to return to the club.

Kendall, who, like Copp, was wanted by a number of other clubs, will be the vice-captain, with Jake Ash skipper.

    

Massey is still looking to recruit fresh faces and he was expecting a number of potential signings to attend training last night, including Saul Halpin, who has been released by Torquay United, and James Washbourne, who had a handful of games for City last season. The full-back, though, is also off to Dundee United for a two-week trial.

The Truro manager is also waiting to hear from Les Afful, an ever-present in Blue Square Bet South last season and Bideford's attacking midfielder Matt Andrew, who have both been made offers to join the Cornish club.

Massey is also looking at a number of other players, including the Helston trio of former player Liam Eddy, Mark Goldsworthy and Charlie Young.

"There will be a lot of natural wastage as we go along and it could take until October to get where we want to be," Massey said.

"Next Friday's game [against Crewe] is a bit early for us, but it's a chance to look at a few things. I'm happy with where we are, but there is still a long way to go.

"We will see what players want to roll their sleeves up and try and make it at a higher level," he added.

Gary Pascoe is to continue as manager of Truro's Carlsberg South West Peninsula League Division One West side after "productive" talks with Massey, while former City first-team boss Lee Hodges has signed up as a player for Peninsula League Premier Division side St Austell.

Hodges wants to stay in management and he has applied for the manager's job at Salisbury City. The ex-Plymouth Argyle and Torquay United stalwart has had offers to play at a higher level than the Peninsula League, but he does not want to travel just to play any more.

Two former Truro City bosses on the move (by Rhod Mitchell - West Briton)

Two former Truro City managers are in the news today, with Sean McCarthy appointed head coach at Plymouth Argyle and Lee Hodges signing up to play for Carlsberg SWPL premier outfit St Austell.

McCarthy 45, is back at Home Park for a third spell, having led the Pilgrims' attack in two spells, between 1988-1990 and 1998-2001.

In total, he made 176 appearances for the Greens, scoring 48 goals.

In between times, he played for Bradford City, Oldham Athletic and Bristol City and, having joined Exeter City after leaving Argyle a second time, ended with a career record of more than 200 goals from over 600 appearances.

    

He rejoins the Pilgrims having most recently been assistant-manager at Championship side Ipswich Town alongside former Bradford playing colleague Paul Jewell.

McCarthy had 18 months in charge at Treyew Road before leaving by “mutual consent” following a 7-2 defeat at Stourbridge.

Hodges, another former Argyle favourite, did not have his contract renewed by City at the end of last season because of financial reasons after the club were relegated from Blue Square South.

In his three year spell in charge he guided City to the Southern League premier division title.

The 39-year-old has been looking to get back into management and has applied for the vacant job at Salisbury City.

He has offers to play from higher division clubs but does not want to travel just to play any more.

His signing as a player is quite a coup for the ambitious St Austell club who have already signed former left back Martin Watts from Truro City and keeper Jason Chapman from Falmouth Town.

Rhod Mitchell

Helston boss unhappy with Truro City (Falmouth Packet)

Sid Taylor, manager of Carlsberg South West Peninsula League club Helston Athletic, has expressed his anger with new Truro City boss Steve Massey after the White Tigers made approaches for three of his players.

Strikers Liam Eddy and Mark Goldsworthy and midfielder Charlie Young are all set to have talks at Treyew Road this week, and Taylor fears the lure of playing in the Calor League Southern Premier Division next season may ultimately prove hard for them to resist.

 

But far from being angry with his players, Taylor said it was the manner in which they were approached that has most frustrated him. “I’m not happy with Truro to be honest. They’ve come in behind our backs, and as far as I’m concerned that’s not the right way to do things.

 

“It goes on, everyone knows it goes on, but you’d think a bigger club like Truro would do it the right way by asking my permission or the club’s permission to speak to our players. They haven’t done that, and that’s disappointing.”

 

This is not the first time Taylor has expressed his annoyance with Massey.

 

The newly-appointed City boss angered the Blues manager last season after it was revealed he had spoken to Eddy via text message about a possible move.

 

But Massey insists it was the player who made contact with him first, and any suggestions of impropriety are unjustified.

 

“I’ve spoken to them throughout June actually, and I’ve had to knock them back on two occasions because we’ve been too busy to meet.

 

“When I last spoke to Sid about Liam Eddy it was to explain that I was actually returning the call from Liam.

 

“I think every time he phones a player he should think about it, because there’s a little bit of pot calling the kettle black here. Sid knows that June’s a month where players and managers speak. It’s basically a free-for-all.”

 

Taylor admits he is powerless to prevent the trio from leaving, but insists any deal must be right for them.

 

“If they have a good offer I suppose they’ll take it up, but there’s a lot of travelling in the Southern League and with time off work the money has to be a big factor.

 

“In a funny way it’s a proud moment for the club to have maybe three players going into the Southern League.

 

“But for Truro to be so underhand in the way they’ve gone about things has really disappointed me.”

 

Meanwhile Massey said he was scheduled to meet the trio, and early indications were that the players were keen to sign.

 

“The vibes I’ve had back from them are very encouraging, but I want to meet face to face,” he said.

 

“I think they have got huge potential, and I don’t doubt they can cope with the step up. I think with our training sessions - which will be more intense than they’re used to - they’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow as players.”

Good times to come? Get yourself a Season Ticket and be part of this...

Home to Weymouth with pre match entertainment

Gloucester City

Kemble Brewery at Cheltenham

Gloucester City (at Cheltenham)

QPR friendly at home

Weston super Mare away

Bournemouth Poppies away

Banbury away

Taunton away

Championez....

Argyle pre season friendly 2012

Tonbridge Angels away

Season Tickets are exclusively available from Steve Rogers 07776 214300 until 31st July 2013. 

City Alerts 24th June (by Peter Masters)

2^nd Team Manager

 

I am pleased to confirm that Gary Pascoe will be the Manager of the second Team (Formally Reserve Team) for next Season following frank discussions between Steve Massey and Gary. It has been agreed between us all that both the 1^{st and} 2nd Team will train together and more importantly, that the 2^nd team players will be given every opportunity to gain a 1^st Team position if the necessary skills are demonstrated by the individual Player.

 

I am personally looking forward to working with both Managers and I know that Steve and Gary will put great emphasise on developing young local players through the 2^nd Team to enable them play at the very highest level of Football Cornwall can offer at this time.

 

Training will commence this Thursday in preparation for the first home game against Crewe Alexandra on Friday 5^th July 2013, KO 7.30pm.

 

Peter Masters

Chairman TCFC.

First team strengthens with Copp's signature

Saturday June 22nd…..



Jordan Copp at Tonbridge (with Andy Watkins)

Steve Massey is delighted this evening that Jordan Copp has agreed to return to Treyew Road.

With the news already in that Cody Cooke was staying on, Copp has become the latest player from last season's squad to commit himself to the Massey movement at Truro City.

The 19-year-old started out with Plymouth Argyle's centre of excellence in 2003. In 2010, he signed an apprentice professional contract with the club, and made his first team debut the following year in a League Cup match against Millwall. Having signed his first professional contract in 2012,  Copp was released when it expired at the end of December without making another first team appearance.

He came to Truro City via Frome Town in March and soon became a popular figure with the supporters in his 9 appearances for the club in the Conference South.

Dave Deacon (from Tiger Talk)    

Wikipedia Bio:

Born in Saltash, Copp joined Plymouth Argyle's centre of excellence in 2003.^[3] He attended an England under-16 training camp in 2008 at the Football Association's national football centre in Burton-upon-Trent.^[4]

In 2010, he signed an apprentice professional contract with the club, and made his first team debut the following year in a League Cup match against Millwall.^[5][6] Having signed his first professional contract in 2012,^[7] Copp was released when it expired at the end of December without making another first team appearance.^[8][9]

He joined Frome Town in February 2013 and scored on his debut in a Somerset Premier Cup defeat at Taunton Town, which the club's website described as 'a major plus'.^[10][11]

On 22 March, Copp joined Conference South club Truro City^[12] and made his debut in the 3–0 defeat at home to Welling United the following day.      

Blast from the past - remember this one against Weymouth, Les?

This action image shows Les Afful's first shot at goal within five minutes of the first half.  The powerful shot was parried away by the keeper.  Marcus Martin pounced quickly from the left wing and right footed the ball low to the right side of goal to make the score 1-0. Marcus is just outside the 18 yard box, watched by a season record crowd of 1690.  Final result of this last game of the season ended 3-2 to City.

 

 

(We haven't heard from you for a while Les...please stay with us?) 

Truro City squad starts to take shape (Rhod Mitchell - West Briton)

NEW Truro City boss Steve Massey's has expressed his delight at signing up highly-rated young Bodmin Town midfielder Olly Brokenshire.

An influential member of last season's Bodmin's treble-winning squad, the 21-year-old, is another important addition to City's squad who will be playing in the Southern League's premier division after their place was confirmed at Saturday's annual meeting.

Massey said: "I am really thrilled he has decided to come, and that he wants to test himself at a higher level."

Also coming to Treyew Road are two more young midfielders, both from St Blazey in Dan Evans and George Swain.

They will join another Blaise Park player in striker Seb Broomfield. The trio have all had professional experience, with Swindon paying £30,000 for Evans as an 18-year-old.

Plymouth Parkway's left footer Warren Daw, who can play at either full-back or central defence, is another new arrival.

Striker Jared Sims, who was released by Plymouth Argyle at the end of the season, has also been confirmed as a new face at his home town club.

Massey, who replaced Lee Hodges as manager earlier this month, is also waiting to hear from Les Afful, who did not miss a game in the league last season.

Skipper Jake Ash and midfielders Joe Broad and Cody Cooke from last season's squad have already signed up for next season, along with keeper Ollie Chenoweth, after his release from Plymouth Argyle.

An offer has also been made to Bideford striker Matt Andrew and attacker Saul Halpin, who was released by Torquay United at the end of the season, has also expressed an interest to joining. But hopes of signing Bodmin Town striker Chris Luxton have been complicated by the fact that he has medial ligament damage which is likely to keep him out for several months.

Meanwhile, the Club have confirmed today that Jake Ash will retain the captain's armband whilst Paul Kendall will step up to vice captain.

City return to pre-season training next Thursday, June 27 and their first friendly is at home to League 1 club Crewe Alexandra on Friday July 5.

They will also welcome League 2 clubs Plymouth Argyle and Oxford United to Treyew Road in an attractive-looking pre-season campaign, ahead of the opening day of the Southern League premier season on Saturday August 17.

Season tickets for next season, when City will play 23 home league games, are now available for £150. The entry price for a non-concession ticket will be £10.

Tickets will be exclusively available from Steve Rogers until Wednesday July 31, by mail order at South West Optics 22a River Street, Truro, TR1 2SJ, or by visiting South West Optics shop. Telephone 01872 263444 for more details.

TRURO CITY FOOTBALL CLUB PRESS ANNOUNCEMENT, (By Peter Masters)

TRURO CITY FOOTBALL CLUB PRESS ANNOUNCEMENT

 

I am pleased to announce some important developments for the Football Club. 

 

League Status

 

On the pitch, I am delighted to confirm that the Football Club was elected to the Southern League Premier Division on Saturday 15^th June 2013.  This is excellent news for the Club and the Community.  This is the best possible outcome that we could have achieved following our relegation from the Blue Square Bet Conference South at the end of last season due to our position in the league.

 

In order to achieve this league status, we had to clear numerous hurdles.  Amongst other things, we needed the FA Membership Committees’ approval to the transfer of membership from Truro City Football Club Limited (the company controlled by the former owners of the Club) to the new company, Truro City Football Club 2012 Limited, set up by Philip and me to buy the Club and, we needed the Football Conference to approve and confirm that the CVA, which had been approved by the Club’s creditors on 4^th June 2013, was compliant with their Rules. 

 

This result was therefore only achieved after a huge amount of work had been carried out by a number of persons within the Football Club and the Club's professional advisers.  In that regard, I would like to give special thanks to Chris Smale and Ian Rennie within the Football Club.  Outside of the Club, I would like to thank Dale Band and Rebecca Rollinson from Nalders Solicitors for their continued efforts and advice over a whole range of difficult legal issues that the Club has faced and, Bishop Fleming for their continued accountancy support.  

 

I would also like to thank all of the creditors who supported the Club by assigning their debts under the CVA to Truro City Football Club 2012 Limited.  I recognise that many of them had genuine claims for liabilities incurred by the former owners of the club, and they have sacrificed these claims in order to help the Club move forward.  Philip and I will not forget this, and I hope that, in many cases, there will be mutually beneficial business to be done by the Club with these creditors in the future.  We intend to recognise these creditors in our match day programmes.

 

Ground

 

I appreciate that many fans would like to know the position with regards to the ground, particularly in relation to what happened to the land under the Club's previous ownership and the current status.

 

Whilst Philip and I wish to disclose all aspects of what occurred prior to our ownership, we have to be slightly cautious at this point as we are awaiting legal advice with regards to the ground tenure and, in addition, the legal advice that was provided to the Trustees in 2007. However, to provide some background, I understand the following has occurred:

 

• In 1959, Truro City Sports Club conveyed the football ground at Treyew Road to Truro City Football Club Limited (which is not the same company that was owned by the previous owners);

 

• On 2 May 1974, prior to the then Truro City Football Club Limited being liquidated, the ground was conveyed to the Football Club's Trustees;

 

• On 18 November 2004, under the terms of a lease, the Trustees granted a 199 year lease of the Ground to Kevin Heaney which was subject to certain covenants.

 

• On 19 December 2007, the Trustees entered into a "contract for the sale of freehold land and agreement relating to the land to be acquired" with Kevin Heaney, which led to the ground being transferred from the Trustees to Kevin Heaney.

 

• On 12 February 2010, there was a transfer of the ground from Kevin Heaney to Cornish Properties Limited.

 

• On 13 July 2012, the freehold and leasehold interest in the ground was transferred from Cornish Properties Limited to Jojo Investco Limited for £2,280,000. Whilst I am unable to confirm with certainty, I believe that the consideration paid by Jojo Investco Limited was used to repay the monies owed by that company to Lloyds Bank plc, which resulted in their charge over the Ground being discharged.

 

I understand that there has been speculation that Jojo Investco Limited is a front for the former owners. I do not believe that to be position and, am of the view that the former owners have no continuing interest in the Club whatsoever.

 

As to the immediate position, I confirm, for the avoidance of doubt, that the Club will be playing at Treyew Road next season.  This has been agreed with Helical Bar and Jojo Investco Limited, who have both been supportive in our recent efforts.

 

Moving forward, Philip’s and my overriding aim is to find a long term solution to the Club’s future, and that includes finding the best possible outcome for where the Club plays in the long term. This may involve some tough negotiations on behalf of the Club, and we all need to be patient, and to recognise that these things take time.  To paraphrase an old footballing expression, let us take one season at a time.  What I can promise is that, as always, there will be complete transparency about the position, as and when there are any material developments to report. 

 

In the meantime, I hope that, after all the years of turmoil and uncertainty, we can now get back to being a football club with widespread community support, playing at a good level and, I hope enjoying some great football next season, having been fortunate enough to retain rather more of our loyal players than looked likely in recent weeks.  We have come a long way in the last few months off the pitch and hopefully there will be real progress on the pitch next season!  There is a genuine buzz around the Club which hopefully can be maintained throughout the season.

 

Peter Masters

Chairman

2013/14 Concession's Season Ticket

Further to yesterday's announcement, the Club can now confirm the following, which should answer any questions posted below and on the Forum:

There will be a Concession's Season Ticket, based on the 23 league home games, at a reduced rate, for a limited period until 31st July 2013.  This will be priced £100.  It's not quite the mathematical pro rata of the normal rate, but still works out to be a VERY GOOD deal and one that should be seriously considered.  Furthermore, Concession at Truro City at least, starts at age 60!

Finally, one grey area is the age group between 13 and 18.  This age group still pay £10 entry as an adult would, or £150 for a season ticket.  The Club are mindful of this and in recognition of trying to attract more attendance in this age group, will be closely monitoring feedback.

Please do not hesitate to call me on 01872 263444 (work) if you have any queries, or better still, wish to purchase a season ticket.  It cannot be stressed enough how much of a deal this is...A Concession equates to just £4.35 a game!

Steve.

2013/14 Season Ticket double bonanza

Mr Masters has today announced that the 2013/14 Season Ticket price will be just £150.  The entry price for a non-concession ticket will be £10.  With 23 home league games to be played, this works out to be a significant saving of £80 and is a real bargain.

 

Season Tickets will be available to purchase from now until 31st July 2013.  Tickets will be exclusively available from Steve Rogers by mail order or by visiting South West Optics shop in River Street, Truro.

 

The form below, with all the relevant information, can be printed and sent to Steve with a cheque made payable to "Truro City Football Club".  A receipt will be sent with the ticket.

 

For those supporters who can visit Steve in the shop, a ticket will be available there. 

 

Please note that Season Tickets are for home league games only and exclude cup games.  And the double bonanza? Season Tickets also cover the Reserves and the Ladies games as well!  A bargain if ever there was one.

 

 

Concession price will be £6. Juniors under 12 years old accompanied by an adult gain free entry.

 

Steve Rogers.

Truro City boss Massey makes more new signings (by Rhod Mitchell - West Brition)

Truro City boss Steve Massey’s new-look squad for life in the Southern League premier division is starting to take shape.

The latest to join the Truro revolution is Bodmin’s treble-winning young midfielder Olly Brokenshire, who has also played for home town club St Austell.

Also expected at Treyew Road are the St Blazey trio of striker Seb Broomfield and midfielders Dan Evans and George Swain, who have all had professional experience, with Swindon paying £30,000 for Evans as an 18-year-old.

Full-back Warren Daw from Plymouth Parkway is another new arrival.

Striker Jared Sims, who was released by Plymouth Argyle at the end of the season, has also been confirmed as a new face at his home town club.

It is understood Massey, who replaced Lee Hodges as manager earlier this month, is also hoping to announce a couple more “well known” signings in the next few days.

Olly Brokenshire signs on for Truro City (by Dave Deacon)

Truro City boss Steve Massey has confirmed his commitment to bringing the best young talent to Treyew Road with the signing of Olly Brokenshire from South West
Peninsula League Premier Division champions Bodmin Town.

In his three years at Priory Park, the 21 year old has been a key figure in Bodmin's dominance of Cornish club football and Massey is thrilled to have signed one of the most highly rated players in local football.

The talented midfielder started at Sticker at only 16 years of age before moving to St Austell, where he also made a major contribution to their promotion success before leaving for Bodmin.

Charlie Legg joins the coaching staff, (by Dave Deacon)

Truro City manager Steve Massey has been rewarded in his close season hunt for the best talent around with the announcement of one of the country’s top names in modern training techniques joining the club’s coaching staff.

Charlie Legg, a leading Strength and Conditioning coach in the South West, is to join Head Coach Glyn Hooper in the immediate task of getting the squad into shape for the season ahead.

Currently  responsible for training the professional basketball team Plymouth Raiders, Charlie trains a multitude of national class athletes on behalf of the talented athlete scholarship scheme (TASS).

It won’t be the first time that the two have worked together as when Massey was Cornwall’s Senior Team Manager, Charlie was one of the county’s top strikers and playing for the Duchy. As one of the top strikers in the region, Charlie has also appeared in the Conference South with Dorchester Town while also having Exeter City interested in signing him. However, after breaking his leg against Truro City at Treyew Road, unfortunately it brought an early end to his footballing career.

Since then he has gained a wealth of experience in maximising the performances of elite athletes and will be tasked with making City’s squad the fittest in the league. His football coaching credentials are also very impressive as over the last 8 years or so, coaching talented youth team players, he has helped a number of players achieve national representative honours. His College development squad became British Colleges Cup champions and he continues to develop his coaching knowledge. His background will be a useful tool alongside the other members of the club’s coaching staff.

Charlie said :" I’m very excited by the prospect of working with the best footballing team in the county. The coaching team that the gaffer is putting together is well constructed and his ideas and motivation for the football club are super impressive.”

Meanwhile Steve Massey is understandably delighted in being able to add Charlie not only to his highly motivated coaching team already at the club, but also that he has decided to come and work with the young and talented squad that is being put together for the season ahead in the Southern Premier League.

Massey added: "Charlie will bring all his experience, skills and knowledge to develop and improve not only our fitness levels, but also to help educate the players on their dietary and nutritional intake.”

Alterations to this TISA site

Following the Club's successful confirmation today by the Southern Premier that we will be playing in the newly named Calor League, TruroFans website will now start to rebuild and reflect our new status.  Obviously there is a massive amount of work to do including rebuilding the Tables and Fixtures RSS feeds, player profiles (once known) and generally tidying up the site.  This will be carried out during the closed season.  The site will remain live but you will see some subtle changes.  Given that the site attracted nearly 200,000 hits since its birth, it would appear that there is a need for such an information platform.

A comments section is available at the bottom of each post.  If there are any aspects of information you feel are missing, please ask and we will do our best to accommodate.

New Truro City boss looks to recruit 'young and hungry' players

Source: West Briton 13th June. by Rhod Mitchell.

NEW Truro City boss Steve Massey is confident of assembling a "young and hungry" squad which will compete for honours when the club returns to the Evo Stick Southern League premier division in August, writes Rhod Mitchell.

Massey, who was appointed for his third spell in charge at Treyew Road last week, following the departure of Lee Hodges at the end of last season, has been busy recruiting a new-look squad.

Skipper Jake Ash has signed a two-year deal to stay on and another member of City's 300 club, Joe Broad, is also staying on.

Keeper Ollie Chenoweth, who was on loan at City last season, will wear the No1 shirt after his release by Plymouth Argyle.

Bodmin Town boss Gilbert on player ins and outs

Source: Cornish Guardian 13th June

BODMIN Town have confirmed an approach has been made by Truro City for Olly Brokenshire – but manager Darren Gilbert remains hopeful the midfielder will remain at Priory Park.

Brokenshire, who is understood to have turned down a move to former club St Austell, is due to hold talks with new Truro City manager Steve Massey this week.

If Brokenshire does decide to move to Treyew Road and play Southern League Premier Division football next season, he would become the fifth player to leave Bodmin this summer.

However, there remains every possibility that Brokenshire could turn down the chance to play at higher level and remain at Bodmin.

 

Gilbert said: "Olly is still a Bodmin player, he is speaking to Truro out of courtesy.
"He has turned down a move to St Austell and will now speak to Truro and listen to what they have to say."

Adam Carter and Shane Krac have linked up with former Launceston and Liskeard manager John Clarkson at Southern League Tiverton Town, while Steve Colwell, and Luke Rundle have joined Plymouth Parkway.

Unnerved:

Despite the shock exodus of players, less than a couple of months after Bodmin were crowned Premier Division champions, Gilbert remains unnerved and insists his squad will be stronger than ever next season.

He said: "I have no issue with those who have left, but with some signings in the offing I am confident we will be just as strong next year."

Bodmin will begin their title defence at home to Witheridge on August 10 after the fixtures for the 2013/14 season were announced last week.

Elsewhere, Reg Hambly's Camelford, who finished ninth for a second successive season, begin their third campaign in the top flight at home to Elburton Villa.

Launceston, meanwhile, face a trip to Premier Division new boys Elmore. Saltash United, who last week confirmed the appointment of Martin Burgess as their new manager, host St Blazey on the opening day, while Liskeard Athletic welcome Alan Carey's Newquay to Lux Park.

Former Bodmin boss Carey, who guided Town to the old South Western League title in 2006, was confirmed as the Peppermints' new manager last week, succeeding Glynn Hooper, who stood down after two seasons at Mount Wise last month and has now become head coach at Truro City.

New Truro City boss outlines his plans for the future (West Briton)

By Rhod Mitchell

NEW Truro City manager Steve Massey says he is looking forward to his third spell in charge at Treyew Road.

And Massey, who became the club’s Head of Football part way through last season, has announced that, as expected, two more former City favourites Glynn Hooper and Graeme Kirkup would be returning to the club as part of his management team.

Massey said he was also close to appointing a new fitness, strength and conditioning coach to complete his backroom staff.

“I am really looking forward to the challenge,” he said. “It seemed to be a natural progression.”
“It is a huge commitment, but it is the dressing room where I really come alive and have more to offer.”

Now he has the daunting task of assembling a squad capable of challenging for honours in the 46-game Southern League premier division next season, providing the Football Conference approve the club’s relegation to that league following the successful CVA application earlier this week.

That should hopefully be no more than a formality after fears that Truro might have to drop down three levels to the Western League, if their financial affairs had not been sorted out.

Massey intends to put together a largely “young and hungry” squad.

“I want players with pace, desire and enthusiasm that supporters will enjoy watching. We will be going out to win every game,” he said.

As well as Ash and Broad staying on, former Plymouth Argyle keeper Ollie Chenoweth, who had a loan spell at City last season, has agreed to return after being released by Argyle.

Talented young midfielder Cody Cooke is also staying on and offers have been made to Les Afful, who played every legue game last season, and young defender Paul Kendall.

Massey is also hoping that Jordan Copp will stay on after joining the club towards the end of last season and that young Truro-based striker Jared Sims will join the City revolution after being released by Plymouth Argyle.

He has also been talking to a host of other players as he tries to rebuild the squad after the departure of a clutch of last season’s players.

“It is a difficult time for managers at this time of the season and I will be happier when I know what I have got,” added Massey.

City return to pre-season training on June 27 and play Crewe Alexandra in a friendly on Friday July 5 and have also matches against Oxford United and Plymouth Argyle.

Truro City appoint Massey as new manager for third time (West Briton)

By Rhod Mitchell

Truro City have appointed Head of Football Steve Massey as manager in succession to Lee Hodges.

It will be a third spell in charge at Treyew Road for Massey, who also played for the club with distinction.

The news, which came as no real surprise, was announced this morning follows the club’s successful CVA application on Tuesday which should mean they will be playing in the Southern League’s premier division next season.

Club chairman Pete Masters said today: “Following the success of the CVA on Tuesday both Philip (Perryman) and I do not want to waste any more time in implementing our plans for next season hopefully in the Southern Premier League.

“With this we are pleased to announce that we have appointed Steve Massey our current Head of Football as Manager of Truro City Football Club for the forthcoming season with immediate effect.

“Steve was brought in by me at the latter end of last season with the brief of planning for all eventualities both on and off the pitch given the volatile position of the club at that time and in particular to ensure that the club fulfilled their obligation to the conference on the pitch with the existing team and the transfer embargo in place.

“Given that we received the Performance Bond back from the Conference Steve fulfilled this task with the utmost dignity and professionalism under what proved to be very difficult circumstances with for that I wish to express my sincere thanks to him on behalf of Truro City Football Club.

“Finding ourselves back in the Southern Premier League and the need to rebuild a team and support structure capable of competing in this league it was a no brainer to ask Steve to take on this managerial role and I am pleased that he has accepted.

“Having worked with Steve during the last few months I know the club will benefit from his wealth of experience which will undoubtedly be needed next season which promises to bring its own challenges both on and off the pitch.

“As chairman of Truro City Football Club I would ask you all to give Steve Massey your support in his task to get the club back up to the league where it belongs and hopefully beyond.”

After going into administration last season City finished bottom of Blue Square South after being deducted ten points and there were fears that until this week's CVA meeting was successful the club could drop down to the Western Legaue premier.

But now the future is looking much more assured and one thing is assured that under the colourful Massey, it won't be dull at Treyew Road.

Truro City: Steve Massey appointed as new manager (BBC Sport)

By Brent Pilnick BBC South West Sport

Truro City have appointed Steve Massey as their new manager.

Massey is currently the club's head of football, having rejoined the White Tigers at the end of January.

He has had two previous spells in charge of the club, the last coming between 2005 and 2006 before being replaced by Dave Leonard.

"It's a no-brainer, he's got the experience and has been there before," chairman Peter Masters told BBC South West Sport.

"If he wasn't here last season we would have found it very difficult to bring in extra players."

Massey replaces Lee Hodges, who was relieved of his duties last month after the club stated it could no longer afford to pay his wages.

Truro City managers since Steve Massey's last period in charge:

• 2006-08 - Dave Leonard
• 2008-09 - Sean McCarthy
• 2009-10 - Steve Thompson
• 2010-13 - Lee Hodges

City were relegated from the Conference South last season following a year of financial turmoil that saw the club go into administration as former owner Kevin Heaney went bankrupt.

Masters, and fellow businessman Philip Perryman took over the club last October , with Massey one of their first appointments.

"Steve comes with a wealth of experience, last season he worked very close with me as head of football," Masters said.

"I feel we want a steady pair of hands for next season and I think he's the right man for the job.

"We considered a number of other options with it all, and we sat down and went through them in some detail and Steve's name kept cropping back up."

And Masters says Massey has been given very clear priorities for the season ahead.

"Steve's brief is to bring in new players, young players, local players and a mixture within the locality and slightly beyond.

"That team, needs to be in a position to keep at least mid-table if not pushing for the top.

"We do not want to find ourselves in a relegation position ever again."

Truro City appoint Steve Massey as Manager

Appointment of Manager

 

Following the success of the CVA on Tuesday both Philip and I do not want to waste any more time in implementing our plans for next season hopefully in the Southern Premier League. With this we are pleased to announce that we have appointed Steve Massey our current Head of Football as Manager of Truro City Football Club for the forthcoming season with immediate effect.

 

Steve was brought in by me at the latter end of last season with the brief of planning for all eventualities both on and off the pitch given the volatile position of the Club at that time and in particular to ensure that the Club fulfilled their obligation to the Conference on the pitch with the existing team and the transfer embargo in place. Given that we received the Performance Bond back from the Conference Steve fulfilled this task with the utmost dignity and professionalism under what proved to be very difficult circumstances with for that I wish to express my sincere thanks to him on behalf of Truro City Football Club.

 

Finding ourselves back in the Southern Premier League and the need to rebuild a team and support structure capable of competing in this league it was a no brainer to ask Steve to take on this Managerial role and I am pleased that he has accepted. Having worked with Steve during the last few months I know the Club will benefit from his wealth of experience which will undoubtedly be needed next season which promises to bring its own challenges both on and off the pitch. As Chairman of Truro City Football Club I would ask you all to give Steve Massey your support in his task to get the Club back up to the League where it belongs and hopefully beyond

 

Peter Masters

Chairman

TISA Statement on the CVA news today

TISA Statement

It is with much delight and huge relief that TISA welcomes the news today that the CVA has been agreed which should allow TCFC to take its place in Southern League Premier this coming season. We recognise what a huge effort it has taken from Pete Masters and his team to bring about this massive achievement. We certainly hope that today marks the moment when the news flow turns positive at long last and that we can once again have a football team that can challenge for honours in a worthy stadium that we can call our own.

Bring on the new season !!!

CVA Agreed

According to sources on Twitter this afternoon, Peter Masters, Chairman of Truro City FC is delighted that the CVA has been  agreed and is looking forward to a fresh start at the club.  The club is expected to announce very soon the new manager, who will undoubtedly be announcing some new faces to play in the Southern Premier League next season.

Peter Masters has since posted this text on City Alerts (Tuesday 4th June 5pm):

 "I am delighted to announce that the CVA has been officially approved this afternoon. We now go forward to the Conference AGM on Saturday and hopefully to the Southern Premier League next season. It’s a good day for the city of Truro and the county of Cornwall as a whole. I am sure all at Truro City Football Club would wish me to convey their thanks to all the Creditors who have written off their debt incurred by the previous regime to make this day possible."

Peter Masters

Chairman

Radio interview with Peter Masters with BBC Radio Cornwall today midday

Radio interview link here

Truro City Chairman confident of reaching debt agreement

Source: BBC Sport LINK HERE

Truro City chairman Peter Masters says he is confident the club will reach a Company Voluntary Agreement (CVA) with their creditors.

City must come to a deal before Saturday's Football Conference annual meeting in order to avoid being relegated three divisions.

The White Tigers are still in administration and were relegated from the Conference South in April.

If they can agree a CVA they will only drop to the Southern Premier League.

Should they fail to do so, they will face relegation to the Western League.

"We've agreed deals with a number of creditors who are owed money from the previous regime," said Masters, who took over the club with fellow businessman Philip Perryman last October after former owner Kevin Heaney went bankrupt.

"Philip and I have worked tirelessly over the past eight months and we've got a £4.5 million debt down to around £80,000, so that's no mean achievement," he told BBC Radio Cornwall ahead of Tuesday's meeting with creditors.

City are still without a manager after relieving Lee Hodges of his duties last month with the club saying it could no longer afford to pay his wages.

Should the Conference ratify the club's CVA and allow them to drop just one division, Masters says the process of naming a new manager and confirming a new squad will begin soon after.

"If we can finish mid-table next season, then great, if we can get promoted back to the Conference, even better.

"We have a manager lined up and we have a team lined up, I can't say who they are, but we have no concerns, we've got the finances in place for the next season."

He added: "Philip and I are putting our hands in our pockets to take it forward to the end of the season.

"We want to give the club every chance to perform on the pitch and to go forward."

Truro City financial timeline

• September 2011 - Truro face winding-up order for unpaid taxes
• June 2012 - High Court told debts total more than £700,000
• August 2012 - Truro players threaten to quit after not being paid
• August 2012 - Owner Kevin Heaney declared bankrupt
• August 2012 - Truro enter administration
• September 2012 - Players set 2 October deadline for payments to be made
• September 2012 - Football Conference set 11 October deadline for takeover
• 3 October 2012 - Players agree to stay on until 11 October
• 11 October 2012 - Deadline to save the club passes with no deal
• 12 October 2012 - City given extension until 18 October
• 18 October 2012 - Deal for £50,000 bond is agreed with Football Conference
• 19 October 2012 - Two businessmen pay bond after previous bidder pulls out
• April 2013 - Relegated from Conference South
• May 2013 - Part company with manager Lee Hodges as the club tries to make a deal with creditors over £80,000 worth of debt