Boston United Football Club News

Here the news about the club received in the 2001/2 season, in date order with the most recent news at the top.

6 June The Safety Advisory Group has decided that with safety being paramount, the Town End stand will be allocated to away supporters next season. The Safety Advisory Group comprises representatives from Boston United, Boston United Supporters Association, Police, Fire Service, Ambulance Service, Boston Borough Council Building Inspectors, and the FA Licensing Committee.

5 June The Annual General Meeting of the Nationwide League is being held in London on Saturday 8 June, Boston United will be represented at the meeting.

31 May Last weekend at the Annual General Meeting of the Nationwide Conference Daryl Clare received awards for the Player of the Season and Goalscorer of the Season, Steve Evans was joint Manager of the Season with Gary Hill and Mark Clifford, Daryl Clare and Simon Weatherstone were included in the Team of the Season.

29 May Yesterday, Boston United were successful in their application to join the Avon Insurance League for the 2002/2003 season. The application was made at the Annual General Meeting of the League in Blackpool. The Avon Insurance League is one of the leagues for the reserve teams of Football League clubs; there is a Premier Division, a Division One East and a Division One West. Boston United have been accepted into Division One East where they will compete with: Darlington, Grimsby Town, Hartlepool United, Hull City, Lincoln City, Mansfield Town, Notts County, Scarborough, Scunthorpe United, and York City. The matches are to be played mid-week.

24 May Yesterday Boston United received a visit from the Football Association Compliance Office, in which they visit to investigate members of the club under Section F of the rules of the Football Association, which concern players contracts. The FA officials met with club officials and players for approximately three hours, further interviews are due to be held next week. The club will be advised of the results of the investigation in due course.

Tomorrow Boston United will visit Stratford upon Avon for the Annual General Meeting of the Nationwide Conference, where Boston United will be officially presented with the championship trophy. At the presentation ceremony Daryl Clare will be presented with the Golden Boot award and he is also on the short list for the Nationwide Conference Player of the Year award. Three Boston United players are on the short list for the Nationwide Conference Team of the Year.

The pre-season match with Barnsley has been re-scheduled for Monday 29 July 2002.

Courtney May Clare, the daughter of Daryl and Victoria was born at 6.55am on Tuesday 21 May 2002, she weighed 7lb1oz.

22 May The initial special offer for season tickets ceased on Sunday 19 May 2002. The new prices are £219.00 for adults in the Finn Forest Stand (concessions at £199.00) and £189.00 for adults on the terraces (concessions at £169.00). Junior season tickets are available for supporters aged 16 and under at £95.00 for the Finn Forest Stand and £65.00 for the terraces.

Des Wood has been appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors replacing Tim Ruck who remains a director.

17 May There will be free admission at York Street for tomorrow's international match between Wales and the Republic of Ireland; the kick-off is at 2.00pm

The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Mickey Brown has signed for Chester City.

Boston United are holding a Car Boot Sales at York Street on Sunday, pitches are £5.00 if paid in advance and £6.00 if paid on the day. Sellers can enter the ground at 8.00am with the public being admitted between 9.00am and 1.00pm. More details are available from the club office on 01205 364406.

16 May Boston United have agreed terms with York City defender Matthew Hocking, who will sign when his contract with York expires. Matthew was born in Boston on 30 January 1978; he is 5ft 11in tall. Matthew joined Sheffield United as a trainee on 1 August 1995, he moved to Hull City on 26 September 1997 and joined York City on 25 March 1999, initially on loan. Matthew has made 181 first team appearances (19 as substitute) and scored four goals.

The draw for the first round of the Lincolnshire Senior Cup is:

Gainsborough Trinity versus Scunthorpe United

Boston United versus AFC Stamford

Lincoln United versus Grimsby Town

Lincoln City versus Grantham Town

The matches are to be played on or before 3 August 2002

13 May Mark Angel and Simon Weatherstone have been called into the England squad for this week's international tournament, starting with England versus Wales at York Street tomorrow. Simon replaces the injured Darren Stride of Burton Albion.

Finn Forest have renewed their sponsorship of Boston United for a further year.

9 May As part of the Civic Reception on Sunday Boston United, the Nationwide Conference Champions for 2001/2002 will tour Boston on an open top bus prior to the reception. The bus is scheduled to leave York Street at 12.00noon and then proceed along the following route to the Assembly Rooms: Rowley Road, John Adams Way, Haven Bridge, Liquorpond Street, George Street, West Street, Market Place.

The Standard has reported that Jim Rodwell has signed a 12 month extension to his contract, Ray Warburton is expected to extend his contract, Brian Hardie and Paul Hart are to sign professional forms, there is a friendly fixture at home to Ipswich Town on 15 July and a friendly away to Billericay Town on 24 July.

8 May The following players have been released: Neil Tarrant, Darren Beesley, Mick Brown and James Fletcher.

The following players have been made available for free transfers: Nick Conroy, Ross Weatherstone, Andy Lodge, Gez Murphy, David Town and Jamie Cook.

Exactly who will be in Sven Goran Eriksson’s final squad of 23 for the 2002 World Cup is still a matter of conjecture across the country; the nation being put out of it’s misery this coming Thursday, 9 May 2002.

Between 14 and 18 May 2002 at Boston United and Kettering Town, John Owens, Manager of the England National Game XI will be seeking to win the first Trophy of a busy summer for England squads, as he pits his wits against his counterparts from Wales, Scotland and Republic of Ireland.

Thanks to the support of the Hertfordshire based company Henkel - who have a history of sports sponsorship - and the work of The F.A.’s Greg Fee and Mike Appleby who have worked hard to re-introduce an end-of-season showcase competition, players from the four countries will be playing for the Unibond Four Nations Tournament.

Already sponsors of the Unibond Northern Premier League since 1994, sponsors of Rugby Union side Saracens for the past twelve months, and former sponsors of Watford Football Club (for three years in the mid-eighties through their Solvite brand), Dick Morris, Executive Director of said:

"I am delighted for Unibond to be sponsoring the Four Nations Tournament. With the host football clubs having had such wonderful league winning triumphs this season and supporters hopefully looking for a further football fix before the World Cup kicks off, I hope football fans across the country come and support what should be a very open competition."

Players will have an added incentive to perform with England Team Sponsor Nationwide providing a bottle of champagne for the Man-of-the-Match at each of the six games.

After wins over the USA and Holland this year, England Manager John Owens has backed the players who have contributed to the extension of his twelve match unbeaten run. Junior McDougald of Dagenham & Redbridge and Adam Stansfield of Yeovil Town get the chance to further raise their profiles after both being forced to withdraw through injury from the game against the USA.

Despite co-hosts Boston United winning promotion to the Football League after a last-day win at Hayes, there is no room in the England squad for any of Steve Evans’ men. Said Owens:

"Throughout this seasons Representative XI and International Fixtures I have not been able to use any Boston players; in fact they were required to play a league game the same night that we played Holland last month.

It is unfortunate for those players but it provides players who have stepped into the squad and have performed so well recently a further chance to impress, this time in a Tournament format."

Out of the three other countries, it is the Welsh that are the most familiar opponents for the hosts.

Tommi Morgan of League of Wales side Carmarthen Town will be seeking to take the Unibond Four Nations Tournament trophy back across the Severn Bridge, and will be able to call on two players who have been capped at Senior International level.

Dagenham & Redbridge goalkeeper Tony Roberts and Bangor City midfielder Simon Davies have earnt two caps and one full cap respectively, whilst Roberts and Newport County goalkeeper Pat Mountain also have two Under-21 caps each.

There are six players from the Nationwide Conference included in Morgan’s squad, but up front, he will be able to call on the services of a striker who will be in next season’s UEFA Cup after scoring 47 goals this season for Bangor City – Marc Lloyd Williams – and three players from Barry Town who will be challenging in the Champions League next season and won ‘The Double’ after today beating Bangor City 4-1 in the Welsh F.A. Cup Final.

Morgan himself scored Wales’s second goal in a 3-1 win over England (formerly Semi-Pro’s) in 1986 at Merthyr Tydfil, with a lob from 25 yards.

The Scotland side has been brought together for the first time under the Scottish F.A.’s Head of Youth Development Jim Sinclair.

Comprising players from the Highland League and East of Scotland League, Sinclair, who is also Head Coach of Scotland’s U-18 side will be looking to his former mentor Craig Brown for inspiration, who as well as being Sinclair’s boss at the SFA, also had Sinclair the player under his wing at Clyde. In fact, Sinclair won three league championships in his playing career, also playing for Hamilton Academicals.

The Scottish side today met at Stirling’s Forthbank Stadium where they played a warm-up match in preparation for the tournament against a Queens Park XI, with Richard Davidson of Iverurie Loco Works gaining a place in the squad, reward for a fine first season with his side in the Highland League.

Don O’Riordan, Manager of Eircom Division One side Sligo Rovers, will manage the Republic of Ireland. O’Riordan made over 500 appearances in the Football League with Derby, Preston North End, Carlisle United, Middlesbrough, Grimsby, Notts County and Torquay United.

As a Schoolboy he captained Ireland Under 15’s and also represented the Under 18’s, before being called into the Senior squad three times, without taking to the pitch.

The Irish will be looking to a striker used to playing on the big stage for their inspiration, after Boston United’s Daryl Clare was ruled out through injury.

Trevor Molloy of Bohemians has been the subject of intense transfer speculation this season, and after being a member of the Irish side that finished third in the 1997 World Youth Championships, he scored the winning goal for his club side to gain an historic UEFA Cup victory to knock out German side Kaiserslautern.

At the heart of the Irish defence will be former Ireland Under-21 international Clive Delaney who may line-up alongside David Crawley, captain of the Dundalk side who gained a shock FAI Cup Final victory over favourites Bohemians this season. On the left wing, Tony Gorman who has won two League Championships in Northern Ireland with Linfield is expected to be the main creative source for O’Riordan’s squad.

Peter Mallinger, Chairman of Kettering Town, and John Blackwell, Secretary/General Manager of Boston United issued a similar rallying cry to their supporters this week.

Mallinger said:

"We have had a wonderful season at Kettering this season, winning promotion back to the Conference at the first attempt. We will be celebrating our league win on Saturday 10 May, and will be asking our supporters who have been great this season to come out and support the Tournament. With a large Scottish population in nearby Corby, it would be great to see some big crowds at Rockingham Road."

Blackwell added:

"York Street has never hosted an International of any nature, and it is a real privilege for everyone at Boston United to co-host the Unibond Four Nations Tournament. After winning the Conference and with League Football to look forward to in August, I hope our supporters come out in force and get behind what is a very important development for players across the National Leagues System."

The match schedule is as follows:

England v Wales – Boston United

Scotland v Republic of Ireland – Kettering Town

England v Republic of Ireland – Boston United

Scotland v Wales – Kettering Town

Wales v Republic of Ireland – Boston United

England v Scotland – Kettering Town

Wayne Brown (Chester City), Andy Woods (Scarborough), Simon Wormull (Stevenage Borough), Terry Skiverton, (Yeovil Town), Jason Goodliffe (Stevenage Borough), Tim Ryan (Doncaster Rovers), Neil Moore (Telford United), Anthony Tonkin (Yeovil Town), Nick Roddis (Margate), Mark Stimson (Grays Athletic), Stewart Drummond (Morecambe), Mark Gower (Barnet), Steve Watson (Farnborough Town), Darren Stride (Burton Albion), Aaron Webster (Burton Albion), Junior McDougald (Dagenham & Redbridge), Kirk Jackson (Stevenage Borough), Adam Stansfield (Yeovil Town)

Scott Anderson (Buckie Thistle), Ross Archibald (Whitehill Welfare), William Bennett (Whitehill Welfare), John Campbell (Fort William), Richard Davidson (Inverurie Locos), Steve Dolan (Deveronvale), Raleigh Gowrie (Spartans), Richard Hart (Brora Rangers), Scott Hunter (Whitehill Welfare), Phillip Johnston (Vale of Leven), Paul McGinlay (Threave Rovers), Craig Manson (Spartans), Derek Milne (Fraserburgh), Ian Murray (Deveronvale), Philip O’Neil (Lothian Thistle), Michael Rae (Buckie Thistle), Michael Stephen (Fraserburgh), Jamie Watt (Deveronvale)

Seamus Kelly (St Pats), Barry Ryan (UCD); Owen Heary (Shelbourne), David Crawley (Dundalk), Clive Delaney (UCD), Paul McNally (Longford), Jodie Lynch (Bray), Alan Murphy (Galway), Derek O’Brien (Galway), Tony Gorman (Linfield), Paul Osam (St Pats), Billy Woods (Shamrock Rovers), Stuart Byrne (Longford), Tony Grant (Shamrock Rovers), Trevor Molloy (Bohemians),Vinny Arkins (Portadown), Kevin McHugh (Finn Harps), Jason Byrne (Bray)

Tony Roberts (Dagenham and Redbridge), Pat Mountain (Newport County), Lee Woodyatt (Chester), Tony James (Hereford), Neil O’Brien (Carmarthen), Gary Lloyd (Barry), Andrew York (Barry), Matthew Court (Forest Green), Ricky Evans (TNS), Mike Flynn (Barry), Nathan Davies (Newport County), Simon Davies (Bangor), Paul Parry (Hereford), Marc Lloyd-Williams (Bangor), Gavin Williams (Hereford), Mark Dickeson (Llanelli), Graham Evans (Caersws), Peter Smith (Telford)

Chris Wade of Boston has been appointed an Assistant Referee for the England versus Republic of Ireland match at York Street.

More information is available on http://www.the-fa.org/newscontent.asp?Artid=3416

3 May The following pre-season friendly matches have been arranged for York Street.

27 July 2002 Rotherham United 3.00pm

31 July 2002 Barnsley 7.45pm

3 August 2002 Peterborough United 3.00pm

6 August 2002 Nottingham Forest 7.45pm

2 May Boston United are to be granted a civic reception by Boston Borough Council on Sunday 12 May. There will be an open top bus tour through part of Boston commencing at 12.00 noon to the Assembly Rooms followed by the reception.

Pre-season friendly fixtures have also been arranged with Barnsley, Nottingham Forest and Peterborough United.

1 May the Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Boston United have arranged a friendly fixture with Rotherham United of the First Division at York Street for Saturday 27 July 2002.

30 April Boston United have announced a substantial promotional offer for season tickets for the 2002 - 2003 season in the Nationwide League Third Division.

Finn Forest Stand: £199.00 for adults and £179.00 for concessions.

Terracing: £169.00 for adults and £149.00 for concessions.

The above prices are a two-week offer commencing on Sunday 5 May 2002 at 10.00am from the club office. Existing season ticket holders have one week to protect their present seat or terrace ticket. After this new applications for season tickets will be accepted in the following week. There are a limited number of tickets available.

Junior season ticket prices together with match day admission prices will be announced in two weeks time.

Daryl Clare has won the Golden Boot for being the top goal scorer in the Nationwide Conference with 25 goals in league matches.

Boston Borough Council are flying the Boston United flag from the Assembly Rooms.

The Central Conference League Cup Final will be between Boston United and Hednesford on a date to be arranged.

29 April the York Street ground was open this evening at 6.00pm for the people of Boston to see the team return with the Nationwide Conference Trophy.

There will be a special programme about Boston United on BBC2 on Thursday 2 May at 7.30pm entitled 'The Pilgrims Progress'.

26 April Hayes have advised that they have a large car park at the Church Road end of the ground and there is other off-road parking around the ground, the Social Club will be open to Boston United supporters it is at the front of the ground next to the car park. The nearest Underground station to the ground is Uxbridge, which is five miles away and Hayes officials suggest it is too far to walk.

The club office will be open on Saturday from 9.00am to 12.00 noon and from 6.00pm to 7.30pm for bookings and payment for the coaches to Hayes; so far there are 11 BUSA coaches running. The club shop will be open from 9.00am on Sunday for the souvenirs for the match.

BBC Radio Lincolnshire has announced details of its comprehensive coverage of Boston United's big weekend. The build-up will start on Friday night with Sporting Lincs between 6 and 7pm.

There'll be more previews in Saturday Breakfast while it's hoped there'll be regular live links to Michael Hortin and Scott Dalton at the team's hotel during Saturday Sport between 2 and 6pm. There will be more build-up in Sunday Breakfast with more links to the team hotel and reports live with fans travelling to the game across the day. The final countdown and match coverage begins with a Sunday spectacular on air between 1.00pm and 7.00pm, presented by Rob Underwood in the studio and with Michael and Scott at Hayes including full passionate commentary of the game from 3.00pm. The build-up will include interviews with EVERY member of the team.

And there will be yet more reaction live on Monday's Breakfast Show from 7.00am. BBC Radio Lincolnshire sports producer Michael Hortin said: "This is one of the biggest-ever operations the radio station has undertaken and will offer the most comprehensive coverage of Boston United's big weekend anywhere." Scott Dalton added: "No newspaper or radio station has covered Boston United in the depth we have this season. We've been first with every major story about the Pilgrims whether it be players signing or the off-the-field sagas like the takeover. We've been with United every step of the way of the season and the final weekend will be the culmination of our coverage which has won widespread praise from fans."
Final preparations are being put into place to try and organise a phone-in to manager Steve Evans at the team hotel after 5.00pm on Saturday and Michael explained: "We've got our technical people working on a link to the team hotel, so fingers-crossed we'll be able to broadcast from there during Saturday Sport."

Sunday's special matchday programme will also be live on the BBC's website for Lincolnshire (www.bbc.co.uk/lincolnshire) while interviews with the United players will be available online now for fans who won't be able to hear them on the day to log on. BBC Radio Lincolnshire is broadcast on 94.9FM.

25 April Boston United urge supporters to get to Hayes early on Sunday to ensure a smooth entry into the ground; there is plenty of parking space available.

24 April Boston United request anyone who is running a coach to Hayes on Sunday to contact the club office on 01205 364406 for the club to collate information (coach company, organisation, etcetera) to assist Hayes in their arrangements for the match.

The admission prices will be Terraces £8.00 with concessions at £5.00 and there is limited seating available at £9.00 with concessions at £6.00. The match will be live on Sky Television with the programme commencing at 2.30pm.

Tonight's scheduled reserves match at Telford has been called off.

22 April Boston United's final two matches of the season will be segregated. Tomorrow at Morecambe visiting supporters will be segregated at the Umbro Stand end. On Sunday at Hayes Boston United supporters will be segregated at the Church Road end of the ground. This is the end where you come into the ground from the turnstiles and car park.

The Nationwide Conference has agreed to BBC Radio Lincolnshire's programmes on Tuesday night and Sunday afternoon being streamed live online on the BBC's website for Lincolnshire www.bbc.co.uk/lincolnshire. The website will also include photographs of the match too on the morning after.

* Tuesday's show will be from 7.00pm on 94.9FM.
* Sunday's show will be from 1.00pm until 7.00pm on 94.9FM.

Lincs FM will have updates from the match at Morecambe tomorrow and a report the following morning on 102.2FM; they will also broadcast an interview with Steve Evans throughout the day tomorrow.

19 April The matches of Hayes versus Boston United and Dagenham and Redbridge versus Chester City which were due to be played on Saturday 27 April have been moved to Sunday 28 April at 3.00pm to be transmitted live by Sky Television.

15 April The match with Farnborough on Saturday 20 April 2002 will not be all ticket, apart from season ticket holders it will be pay at the gate. Boston United urge all supporters to be early to ensure a smooth entry at the turnstiles which will open at 1.30pm. There will be pre-match entertainment from junior age group footballers.

11 April The match with Farnborough on 20 April is not planned to be all ticket; supporters are urged to arrive early and to use the turnstile applicable to the part of the ground they wish to use. Apart from season ticket holders entrance will be on a first-come first-served basis.

Steve Evans is due to be a studio guest of Sky Television tomorrow for their broadcast of the match between Dagenham & Redbridge and Doncaster Rovers.

10 April Written confirmation has been received regarding the A grade for the York Street stadium, the authorised capacity is now 6643.

9 April Daryl Clare has won the Nationwide Building Society goalscorer of the month award for April 2002.

Tomorrow's scheduled reserves fixture against Telford United has been called off due to injuries in the squad.

5 April Boston United fans will be able to keep up to date with arch rivals Dagenham and Redbridge's match at Northwich Victoria on Saturday on BBC Radio Lincolnshire. There will be regular reports from Dagenham's game on Saturday, as Radio Lincolnshire will have a reporter at the match to keep Pilgrims fans informed. The reports will be carried in the Lincoln City commentary match. The station has also announced that, starting with the home match against Stevenage Borough on Monday, full-match commentary of the Pilgrims remaining six games will now be carried on the 94.9FM and 104.7FM frequencies, with Lincoln City's remaining matches this season now going over to medium wave frequency.

Former player, Andrew Stanhope, has joined King's Lynn from Gaisnborough Trinity. King's Lynn also have other former players Adie Hayes, Paul Raynor and Paul Watts.

4 April Yesterday the Reserves beat Burton Albion 3-0 in the semi-final of the League Cup; Jamie Cook, David Town and Simon Weatherstone scored the goals.

The team was Conroy, Fletcher (Hardie), Lodge, Elding, Tarrant, Costello, Beesley, Hart, Town, Simon Weatherstone (Murphy) and Cook.

The final will be against Hereford United, Hednesford or Tamworth.

Whilst Sven-Goran Erikson and David Platt put the final touches to their preparations for the Summer's World Cup and Under 21 European Championship Finals, another England Manager will be seeking to win a Four Nations Tournament a bit closer to home.

Masterminded by Greg Fee, FA National League Systems Manager and Mike Appleby, FA Leagues Development Manager, the Four Nations Tournament will return to the football calendar between Tuesday 14 May and Saturday 18 May 2002 at Boston United and Kettering Town.

John Owens's side undefeated in eleven internationals now play under their new name, first introduced in their 2-1 win over the USA at Stevenage Borough on 20 March 2002. In July 2000, The National Game Division was created at The FA to lead the development and investment of English grassroots football under the leadership of Director, Steve Parkin. In order to reflect the changes at the FA and the movement of many Conference clubs towards full-time status, the England National Game XI replaced the former England Semi-Professional moniker with the team representing the pinnacle of the National Game.

In 1979 and England Semi-Professional Team was formed for the first time, with an inaugural international Four Nation Tournament hosted by England at Stafford and Northwich. The tournament was staged on a knockout basis and featured Holland (amateurs), Italy (Serie C Under 21) and Scotland (semi-professional). These tournaments ended in 1987, since when the England side have been reduced to playing two or three friendly internationals per season.

The ticket prices are:

Seated £8.00 for adults and children

Terraces £6.00 for adults and £2.00 for children.

Family Tickets will also be available for each match, available only in the Stands for £20.00 for two adults and two children, a saving of £12.00.

For more information contact the club office on 01205 364406.

Alan Smith and Steve Guppy are two former semi-professional old boys who progressed to full England international honours after beginning their careers at Alvechurch and Wycombe Wanderers, whilst two of the deadliest strikers in Division One last season, Barry Hayles of Fulham and Lee Hughes of West Bromwich Albion (now of Coventry City) both appeared for the England team whilst plying their trade in the upper echelons of pyramid football for Stevenage Borough and Kidderminster Harriers.

Coming to the end of his playing career, current Brighton and Hove Albion Manager Peter Taylor, who has also had recent experience working with the senior England side, appeared three times for the former semi-professionals whilst at Maidstone in 1984. Taylor had already been capped four times for England after a distinguished playing career that took in Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur during the 1970s.

Before he moved into coaching John Owens made sure he had some silverware to show for his ten years with Altrincham, being a member of the 1978 FA Trophy winning side that beat Leatherhead 3-1 at Wembley, before going on to win two consecutive Alliance premier League championship winners medals in 1980 and 1981 in the days before automatic promotion to the Football League. A Liverpool supporter at heart, John Owens achieved a life-long dream in 1984, when, after taking his Full UEFA 'A' Coaching Licence in 1978, he became a coach at the fabled Liverpool Bootroom, overseeing the development of their Schoolboys for six years, including Steve McManaman and Robbie Fowler. In 1992 and then up until May 2001, John graduated to become a part-time coach at the Liverpool FC Centre of Excellence, where he also oversaw the progress of Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard amongst others. It was also during this period that he became involved in the England coaching team. In 1995 John became manager of the England Under 15 side, before taking charge of the England Semi-Professional side in 1997, a job he retains today. In the Summer of 2001, John was appointed Assistant Academy Director at Liverpool FC, helping to develop the next generation of Owens, Fowlers and Gerrards.

3 April For the match with Stevenage Borough on Monday 8 April season ticket holders in the Finn Forest stand can exchange voucher 20 in their season ticket book for a ticket to the match for their normal seat from the club office during normal opening hours between 12.00 noon on Friday 5 April and 7.00pm on Sunday 7 April. From 9.00am on Monday 8 April tickets for the remaining seats in the Finn Forest stand will be available for purchase at the normal admission prices. This procedure is due to the advice of the Police and Safety Team.

2 April For the match with Stevenage Borough on Monday 8 April, admission to the Finn Forest Stand is to be by ticket obtained in advance; this procedure is due to the advice of the Police and Safety Team. Information is due to be released on Wednesday regarding arrangements for the tickets to be collected by season ticket holders and for sale to other purchasers.

International football comes to Boston next month when three matches of the Home Nations Tournament are to be held at York Street.

Tuesday 14 May England versus Wales, kick off at 7.30pm.

Thursday 16 May England versus Republic of Ireland, kick off at 7.30pm.

Saturday 18 May Republic of Ireland versus Wales, kick off at 2.00pm.

Other matches in the tournament, to be held at Kettering Town's Rockingham Road ground are:

Tuesday 14 May Republic of Ireland versus Scotland

Thursday 16 May Scotland versus Wales.

Saturday 18 May England versus Scotland.

More information, including admission prices, will be available from Boston United and the Football Association in the next few days.

The Boston United Am Am Golf Tournament, sponsored by Lafarge Aggregates, will be held at Boston Golf Club on Thursday 4 July 2002.

28 March Earlier today Boston United had the final inspection from the Football League and have verbally been told that York Street has been awarded an A Grade which means that Football League can be held at York Street, written confirmation is expected to be received next week.

27 March Steve McGarry has had his loan period with Boston United ended by mutual consent and he is going to rejoin St Mirren.

22 March Boston United have signed central defender Ray Warburton from Rushden & Diamonds until the end of the season. Ray was born in Rotherham on 7 October 1967, he is 6ft 0in tall and was captain of Rushden & Diamonds when they won the Nationwide Conference last season. Ray joined Rotherham as an apprentice on 5 October 1985 and has subsequently played for York City, Northampton Town as well as Rushden & Diamonds; he has made 405 first team appearances (five as substitute) and scored 31 goals.

Ross Weatherstone suffered a knee injury against Nuneaton Borough; it was the other knee to his previous injury.

BBC Radio Lincolnshire have announced the following coverage of Boston United's remaining matches this season.

Saturday 23 March Boston United v Chester City Second Half commentary on 1368 MW after a special programme covering the enthronement of the Bishop of Lincoln.

Tuesday 26 March Yeovil Town v Boston United Full Match commentary on 1368 MW, Sports Special from 7.00pm.

Good Friday 29 March Boston United v Barnet Second Half commentary on 94.9 FM and 1368MW, as part of Sporting Lincs from 5.30pm.

Easter Monday 1 April Southport v Boston United Full Match commentary on 1368 MW.

Monday 8 April Boston United v Stevenage Borough Full Match commentary on 94.9FM, Sports Special from 7.00pm

Saturday 13 April Leigh RMI V Boston United Full Match commentary on 1368 MW.

Tuesday 16 April Scarborough v Boston United Full Match commentary on 94.9FM, Sports Special from 7.00pm.

Saturday 20 April Boston United v Farnborough Town Full Match commentary on 1368 MW.

Tuesday 23 April Morecambe v Boston United Full Match commentary on 94.9FM, Sports Special from 7.00pm.

Saturday 27April Hayes v Boston United Full Match commentary on 94.9FM and 1368 MW.

21 March The home fixture with Stevenage Borough has been moved from Saturday 6 April to Monday 8 April at 7.45pm, due to Stevenage being involved in the FA Umbro Trophy Semi-Final on the original date.

19 March Supporters attending tomorrow evening's match with Nuneaton Borough are urged to arrive early at York Street as a large crowd is anticipated due to admission being by a free voucher. Admission to the ground must be by the correct turnstile according to the voucher being used.

Red Vouchers - Turnstiles 5 and 6 for York Street and Spain Road.

Purple Vouchers - Turnstiles 1 and 2 for the Finn Forest Stand.

Blue Vouchers - Turnstiles 7,8, 9 and 10 for the Town End.

Yellow Vouchers - Turnstiles 3, 3A and 4 for Nuneaton Borough supporters.

14 March To gain admission for the home match with Nuneaton Borough on Wednesday 20 March a voucher will be required which can be obtained from the turnstiles whilst entering the ground for the match with Telford United on Saturday. The voucher will enable the holder to gain admission to the ground through the same turnstile as the voucher was obtained from. It is important to use the same turnstile on Saturday, as the one required for the Nuneaton match. Supporters who are unable to collect vouchers from the turnstiles on Saturday can obtain them from the club office after 6.00pm on Sunday until 7.30pm and then during normal opening hours on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. The police will be strictly enforcing the allowed ground capacity of 5184 and won't allow admission to anyone without a voucher. More details can be obtained from the club office on 01205 364406.

The Target Newspaper is sponsoring the match with Telford United on Saturday.

Wednesday's scheduled Sygnus Central Conference match with Telford United was called off due to injuries in the squad.

The Standard has reported that Kevin Evans has returned to Cardiff City at the end of his one-month loan.

8 March A new CD of video clips of goals from Boston Utd games has been produced and will be available for purchase from the Pilgrims' Shop from Saturday afternoon. It costs £5. It contains video clips of forty two goals from eleven Boston Utd games in the first half of the 2001/2 season. Match reports from each game are also included, many with accompanying photographs. As a bonus, goals from the FA Cup match against Sheffield United in 82/3 and the 1985 FA Trophy Final have also been included.

8 March On Wednesday the reserves drew 2-2 with Telford United in the Sygnus Central Conference, Mark Angel and David Town scored the goals.

The team was Conroy, Brown, Hardie, Tarrant (Hart 65), Elding, Gould, McGarry, Cook, Town, Beesley and Angel (Fletcher 65).

6 March The following fixtures have been re-arranged:

Saturday 16 March home to Telford United at 3.00pm, this is due to the original opponents Yeovil Town being involved in the FA Umbro Trophy and the match with Telford has been brought forward from 10 April.

Tuesday 26 March away to Yeovil Town at 7.45pm.

Tuesday 16 April away to Scarborough at 7.45pm.

Admission Vouchers for the re-scheduled match with Nuneaton Borough on Wednesday 20 March will be available at the turnstiles for the match with Telford United on Saturday 16 March.

A new audio service for Boston United fans has been launched on the new BBCi Lincolnshire site. For every Pilgrims game covered by BBC Radio Lincolnshire, fans can download audio of the goal highlights, match reports and the after-match interview with Steve Evans. The service started for the Dagenham and Redbridge game on Monday and can be accessed by going to www.bbc.co.uk/lincolnshire going to the sport section and following the instructions to listen to the audio.

1 March Yesterday, in a behind closed doors match at Brigg Town; Boston United beat Grimsby Town 2-0, the goals came from an own goal and Gez Murphy. Grimsby included Gary Ablett formerly of Liverpool in their team.

The reserves next match is away at Telford United next Wednesday kick off at 7.30pm.

The match at Dagenham on Monday will be segregated; Boston United have been allocated the Pondfield Road terraces which are uncovered. There may also be seats available in the Carling Stand at £12.00 or at £15.00 in the Family Stand for one adult and two children. Boston United supporters are welcome to use the Club House where a large ground floor bar will be available for their sole use; the admission charge is £0.50.

There will be full match commentary on Dagenham and Redbridge versus Boston United on Monday night on BBC Radio Lincolnshire on 94.9FM. Michael Hortin and Scott Dalton will be on air after the 7.00pm news with almost an hour's build-up live from the ground ahead of the 8.00pm kick-off. Ahead of the game, Steve Evans will be the special guest on Saturday
Sport between 2.00pm and 6.00pm on BBC Radio Lincolnshire this weekend. Steve will
be in the studio all afternoon with Michael Hortin to preview the match.

Stewart Riley of Lincs FM will be reporting before, during and after the match on 102.2FM and there will be a report on the match on Tuesday morning

28 February The Target has reported that Boston United beat Tamworth 5-0 in the Sygnus Central Conference fixture on Tuesday; Brown (three), Hardie and Town scored the goals. The team was Conroy, Brown, Angel, Rusk, Elding, Fletcher, Evans, Beesley, Town, Hardie, Cook; substitutes Thompson and Hart.

26 February A new BBC site for Lincolnshire has been launched this week. Sport is an important part of the site with Lincoln City and Boston fans able to listen back to commentary highlights of their teams games and reaction to the results. The website will also keep pace with all other local sports stories and give fans their say. In addition to the local news pages which will be constantly updated the site has competitions, the best in local music, a full guide to Lincolnshire's night life and much more. You can also prove that you are a yellow belly.

25 February Boston United have re-arranged a home Central Conference match with Tamworth for tomorrow. The match will be played at The Lamb Ground, Tamworth, kick off at 7.30pm.

24 February Tuesday's scheduled Nationwide Conference match with Scarborough has been postponed because they now have a replay with Morecambe in the FA Umbro Trophy Fifth Round.

22 February The home Nationwide match with Barnet has been brought forward to Good Friday 29 March, kick off at 4.30pm, to enable it to be transmitted live by Sky Television.

Earlier today Gez Murphy joined Crawley Town of the Dr Martens League Premier Division on loan for one month, he is scheduled to make his debut against Newport County tomorrow.

21 February Last night the Reserves beat Hereford United 2-0, Town and Rusk scored the goals.

20 February The Directors of Boston United Football Club Limited are aware of the concern within the community relating to the Company both from an ownership and financial status view point. The club continues to be one of the front runners in the Nationwide Conference besides whilst at the same time struggling with its financial problems.

Negotiations are continuing with Pilgrim Developments Limited, a company owned by Mr Des Wood and Mr Trevor Killick, the Chairman and Finance Director respectively of a group of companies specialising in property and corporate development. To date negotiations have resulted in options being granted by the Malkinson family for the purchase of both the majority shareholding in the company and the freehold site of the York Street stadium. It is anticipated that these options will be exercised during the Summer of this year.

In the interim, Mr Wood and his associates are working closely with the Directors of the club to provide a solution to the ongoing financial crisis. It is envisaged that all creditors will be contacted in the near future in order to seek their co-operation with the club's recovery strategy.

In the forthcoming ten weeks the club will attempt to complete the excellent work already undertaken by the manager and his staff by achieving promotion to the Nationwide Football League and to this end, further ground improvements have already been completed to ensure an appropriate grading.

Within the subsequent two years, it is planned to move the club to a new home on the western outskirts of the town and in the longer term, it is envisaged that a commercially regenerated and stable football club could transfer from restricted ownership into the public domain. It is hoped that the local community would demonstrate sufficient support to enable Boston United Football Club Limited to literally become their own club.

It is appreciated that negotiations have taken some time to reach this position and inevitably, this has led to genuine concern by supporters. The Directors are grateful for the patience shown and they hope that all members of the community with the best interest of their football club at heart will join with them and help in every possible way to achieve the first objective which is to gain promotion.

The squad, which travelled to Hereford for tonight's reserves fixture, was Conroy, Fletcher, Lodge, Beesley, Evans, Rusk, Brown, Hardy, Murphy, Town, Cook; substitutes: Hart and Thompson.

14 February York Street was inspected today by the Football League with a view to obtaining an A Grade which is required for membership of the Football League.

Boston United Football Club can confirm club owners the Malkinson family and north Nottinghamshire based businessman Des Wood have been in discussions regarding the future ownership of the football club. Both parties have agreed to release a full detailed statement at noon on Wednesday 20 February 2002. This, in turn, will outline the current and proposed future of Boston United Football Club. The statement will be released by General Manager John Blackwell.

This evening General Manager, John Blackwell, took part in a discussion on Radio Five Live concerning promotion and relegation between the Nationwide Conference and the Nationwide League Third Division.

13 February The signing of Jim Rodwell has been completed. Boston United would like to thank Rushden & Diamonds for their help and cooperation in signing of Jim Rodwell on a free transfer.

The BUSA Supporters coaches have planned the following departure times for the forthcoming away fixtures:

Tuesday 26 February Scarborough 3.30pm

Monday 4 March Dagenham & Redbridge 3.30pm

12 February The registration forms for the transfer of Jim Rodwell to Boston United are expected to be completed tomorrow, he has signed to the end of the season with an option to sign for next season, he recently came third in the television programme Britain's Brainiest Footballer.

Jim Rodwell was expected to make his debut for Boston United earlier today in a friendly match away to Rushden & Diamonds. Boston United won the match 2-1, David Town and Paul Ellender scored the goals.

Jim Dick has joined Scottish club Stenhousemuir on a 12-week loan period. On Saturday he made his debut in a 0-0 draw with Clydebank, the club he joined earlier in the season on a three-month loan.

The away Nationwide Conference match with Scarborough has been re-arranged for Tuesday 26 February, kick off at 7.45pm.

The home match with Hereford United on Monday 18 February is scheduled to kick off at 8.00pm and will be the first Nationwide Conference fixture to be broadcast live by Sky Television at peak viewing time on a Monday evening. Making their debut as a full match sponsor for the Hereford match are Fresh Time based in Marsh Lane, Boston.

11 February BBC Radio Lincolnshire has reported that Rushden and Diamonds defender Jim
Rodwell has agreed to join Boston United on a free transfer subject to a medical. The Lincoln-born player, who recently appeared on the TV show Britain's Brainiest Footballer, has played 14 times for Rushden this season and has been on loan at Dagenham and Redbridge. There'll be an interview with Jim Rodwell on BBC Radio Lincolnshire's Breakfast Show on Tuesday morning between 7am and 9am on 94.9FM or 1368 medium wave.

Jim Rodwell was born in Lincoln on 20 November 1970, he joined Halesowen on 1 August 1992 and moved to Rushden & Diamonds on 31 May 1996 where he made 84 appearances and scored four goals.

7 February Boston United have signed midfielder, Kevin Evans, on loan for one month from Cardiff City. Kevin was born in Carmarthen on 16 December 1980; he is 6ft 2in tall. Kevin joined Leeds United as a trainee on 1 August 1998; he had a month on loan with Swansea City from 17 January 2000 to 19 February 2000. On 1 September 2000 he joined Cardiff City on a free transfer, making 34 appearances for them last season as they won promotion from Division Three of the Nationwide League.

There will be a full interview with Kevin Evans and manager Steve Evans on Sporting Lincs on BBC Radio Lincolnshire Friday night between 6 and 7pm; plus full-match commentary of Scarborough v Boston United on BBC Radio Lincolnshire on 1368 medium wave (coverage starts 2pm and ends at 6pm).

Dion Scott has returned to Walsall following the end of his month's loan.

The Standard has reported that Steve Evans is attempting to sign Jim Rodwell from Rushden & Diamonds; Jim is currently on loan at Dagenham & Redbridge. Also, attempts to Sign Neal Redfearn on loan from Halifax have fallen through and Paul Newton has been released

6 February The following Nationwide Conference away fixtures have been re-arranged; both are due to kick off at 7.45pm.

Doncaster Rovers Tuesday 12 March.

Morecambe Tuesday 23 April.

Supporters travelling on the BUSA Coach to Scarborough on Saturday are advised that it is due to depart from Boston at 9.00am.

5 February The away fixture with Doncaster Rovers scheduled for Tuesday 12 February has been postponed because Doncaster are due to play Yeovil Town in the FA Umbro Trophy Fourth Round, the original match was postponed on Saturday. The away fixture with Morecambe scheduled for Saturday 23 February has been postponed because Morecambe have progressed through to the Fifth Round of the FA Umbro Trophy which is played on that day. Boston United are trying to arrange alternative matches and new dates for these fixtures.

BBC Radio Lincolnshire has announced it will be carrying full-match commentary of all Boston United's remaining Saturday away matches in the Nationwide Conference on its medium wave frequency. The coverage will start this Saturday with the Pilgrims' trip to Scarborough on 1368 medium wave with commentary of Lincoln City's games continuing on 94.9FM. Radio Lincolnshire sports producer Michael Hortin said: "This is a crucial time for Boston and we know many fans who regularly go to the home matches can't always get to the away games at the weekend. By splitting our frequencies for these crucial matches, they won't miss the action as Boston strive for the Football League. It's going to be a thrilling end to the season and we want as many people as possible to enjoy the drama. I know from reading the Pilgrims Patter some fans reckon we jinx Boston as everytime we do a commentary match United don't seem to win - hopefully that's all about to change. After all we did full match commentary when Boston beat Grantham to win promotion to the Conference. It would be great if there's a similar outcome at Hayes on the final day of the season," he added. As well as the extra commentary games, there'll also be all the news from the York Street camp on Sporting Lincs on Friday nights. And when the big news about United breaks it's on BBC Radio Lincolnshire's unrivalled news and sports bulletins.

* BBC Radio Lincolnshire sports coverage:
Saturday: 2pm to 6pm Saturday Sport (commentary of all United's remaining
away Saturday matches this season on 1368 MW)
Friday: 6pm to 7pm Sporting Lincs (look ahead to weekend games including
latest news and interviews from York Street)
Sports bulletins at 6.30am, 7.30am, 8.30am, 12.30pm and 5.30pm weekdays;
plus 7.30am, 8.30am and 12.30pm on Saturdays, 7.30am, 8.30am and 10am on
Sundays.
News bulletins on the hour, every day.

4 February The scheduled reserves fixture away to Telford United on Wednesday 6 February has been postponed.

31 January The team which played Mansfield Town in the friendly match yesterday was: Conroy, Clifford, Gould, Monington, Elding, Town, Beesley, Tarrant, McGarry, Brown and Cook; substitutes: Hart, Fletcher and Hardy.

The home Nationwide Conference fixture with Telford United has been re-arranged for Wednesday 10 April 2002, kick off at 7.45pm. The match was originally scheduled for Saturday 2 February but was postponed due to Telford's involvement in the FA Umbro Trophy.

30 January Earlier today Boston United played a behind closed doors friendly match away to Mansfield Town who played a strong team including experienced striker David Kelly their new signing from Motherwell. Boston United won 5-0 with McGarry (three), Beesley and Town scoring the goals.

29 January Boston United were featured on BBC East Midlands regional programme at 6.30pm tonight, the reporter had spent Friday and Saturday with Boston United. Boston United will also be featured in Jonathan Pearce's Football Night on Channel 5 at 11.55pm on Thursday.

The reserves next match is away to Telford United at the Bucks Head on Wednesday 6 February.

27 January Today's edition of the Non-League paper has reported that Anthony Elding is to have a week with Middlesbrough and Celtic are also interested in him.

24 January Boston United have lucrative advertising spaces available for the Nationwide Conference match with Hereford United on Monday 18 February, which is live on Sky Television, for more details contact the club office on 01205 364406.

The Standard has reported that Mark Clifford and Daryl Clare will miss Saturday's match at Stalybridge due to one-match suspensions.

23 January Anthony Elding scored both goals for Bolton Wanderers last night in a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa in a reserves fixture.

22 January Sky Television visited Boston United today to carry out a survey in preparation for the match with Hereford United on 18 February.

Anthony Elding is currently on trial with Bolton Wanderers; he is due to play for their reserve team tonight against Aston Villa Reserves at Leigh RMI's Hilton Park ground.

21 January The following fixtures have been re-arranged. Away to Doncaster Rovers on Tuesday 12 February and home to Nuneaton Borough on Wednesday 20 March, both matches kick off at 7.45pm.

BBC Radio Lincolnshire will be providing full match commentary of Boston United's away trip to Stalybridge Celtic on Saturday. With Lincoln City having a blank day, the spotlight will be firmly on the Pilgrims in a classic bottom versus top match. Coverage of the game is in Saturday Sport between 2pm and 6pm on 94.9FM or 1368 medium wave. There'll also be a preview of the match on Sporting Lincs between 6pm and 7pm on Friday night.

18 January Boston United have signed defender Darren Beesley from Airdrie, forward Neil Tarrant from Ross County and forward Steven McGarry from St Mirren. Darren and Neil have signed until the end of the season and Steven is on loan for three months.

Darren Beesley was born in Rotherham on 16 March 1981; he is 5ft 10in tall. Darren signed for Rotherham United on 1 august 1998; he joined Kilmarnock on 30 August 1999 and moved to Airdrie on 7 August 2001.

Neil Tarrant was born in Darlington on 24 June 1979; he is 6ft tall. Neil joined Darlington on 1 august 1996 and has also appeared for Shamrock Rovers, Aston Villa, Ayr United, York City, and Motherwell joining Ross County of the Scottish League First Division on 31 October 2001.

Steven McGarry was born in Paisley on 28 September 1979; he is 5ft 9in tall. Steven joined St Mirren of the Scottish Premier League on 1 August 1996, since then he has made 160 first team appearances (63 as substitute) and scored 27 goals.

In an interview in Sporting Lincs between 6.00pm and 7.00pm on BBC Radio Lincolnshire (94.9FM) tonight, Steve Evans says he'd like to add more players to his squad soon.

17 January There will be a football quiz in the BUFC social club on Friday 1 February, commencing at 8.00pm. Rob Singleton will be the quizmaster and teams of 4 are invited to enter on the night, cost is £5.00 per team. Prizes and trophies will be awarded to the first two teams and a raffle will be held on the night.

If anyone can help out by donating a raffle prize could you please see either Andy or Lisa Butler in the social club at the next home game or on the night.

Last night a group of committee members (Andy Robinson, Mick Small, Jan Birley and Lisa Butler) were at the Pilgrim Hospital to make a presentation on behalf of BUSA. Thanks to the Christmas Disco in the social club we were able to hand over £300 worth of equipment to the Special Care Baby Unit, among the items purchased by BUSA were:

Baby Clothes
Blankets and bedding
A suitcase for when babies are sent to other hospitals
A trolley for changing babies on and storing equipment
A CD player, apparently playing soothing soothing music is beneficial to the babies.

The SCBU is a cause close to Andy Butler, Mick Small and Jan Birley's hearts, both Andy's boys spent a considerable time on the ward after their premature births, as did young Luke, Mick's boy, this Christmas. And just for good measure Jan works on the ward so she was happy to help us decide what items to purchase.

After a presentation and photograph session the group were interviewed on Pilgrim Hospital radio and the interview broadcast to the patients.

All in all yet more positive publicity for BUSA.

The Standard has reported that Steve Evans has a shopping list of players and is confident new faces will be unveiled on Saturday. The shopping list includes: Neil Redfearn (a midfield player with Halifax, Charlton and Barnsley); Steven McGarry (a striker with St Mirren); Neil Tarrant (a striker with Notts County and Aston Villa); Darren Beesley (a midfield player with Kilmarnock); Terry Skiverton (a centre back with Yeovil Town).

Last night, David Norris was in Bolton Wanderer's starting line-up for their FA Cup match with Stockport County. A shot by David was diverted into his own net by Karim Fradin of Stockport for Bolton's third goal.

15 January For Saturday's match with Northwich Victoria, junior supporters (under 16 years old) can gain admission for £2.00 by using turnstiles 4 (York Street Car Park) and 9 (Town End); the match will not be segregated.

14 January Anthony Elding is tonight due to play for Tottenham Hotspurs reserves against Nottingham Forest reserves at the City Ground, Nottingham as part of his trial.

The scheduled home fixture with Telford United on 2 February 2002 has been postponed due to Telford's progress in the FA Umbro Trophy. Boston United are looking to re-arrange a fixture and are awaiting the results of the Trophy replays.

13 January Yesterday in the FA Umbro Trophy Third Round Boston United lost to Northwich Victoria.

Northwich Victoria 3 Boston United 1

Devlin 17 Clare 57

Quinn 52, 89

Team: Bastock, Clifford, Gould, Ross Weatherstone, Scott, Ellender, Rusk (Town 87), Elding, Clare, Costello (Lodge 46), Cook (Angel 46). Substitutes not used: Monington, Newton.

Attendance: 966

11 January BBC Radio Lincolnshire has lost a great friend and its longest serving sports broadcaster with the death of Mike Molloy at the age of 59 after a long illness. In so many ways Mike WAS BBC Radio Lincolnshire Sport .In the time since he walked in the door in 1981 he'd worked with every sports producer we have had and his encyclopedic knowledge of Lincolnshire sport helped each and every one.

The Managing Editor of BBC Radio Lincolnshire Charlie Partridge said " Everyone knew Mike Molloy, his contacts were superb and his love of every branch of sport self evident. In recent years Mike had become more involved with the sports team working as a commentator and expert summariser. Mike had played sport at a high level and that experience often gave him the edge."

No one really knew that Mike was often in pain and that his occasional disappearances for a couple of weeks were actually for another round of chemotherapy. But his illness just made him more determined to enjoy life, and for Mr Molloy "life" meant "sport".

8 January Yesterday, Steve Evans took Anthony Elding to Tottenham Hotspur for four days training, Anthony returns to Boston on Thursday.

Chester City's website news page dated 8 January 2002 has reported that Mark Wright has been appointed the new manager of Chester City and that Alan Lewer will continue in his caretaker capacity for their match tonight with Northwich Victoria.

7 January The scheduled Sygnus Central Conference League match at Telford on Wednesday has been cancelled due to injury and flu within the squad.

6 January Yesterday's match away to Doncaster Rovers was postponed due to a frozen pitch at Belle Vue.

There will be a Football Quiz night in the BUFC Social Club on Friday 1 February, commencing at 8.00pm. All the proceeds will go to BUSA; there will be a raffle and possibly an auction of BUFC memorabilia on the night. Teams of 4 are welcome; the cost is £5.00 for a team of 4 and prizes will be given for First, Second and Third places. Rob Singleton will be quizmaster and the social club bar will of course be open.

As yesterday's match with Doncaster Rovers was postponed anyone requiring a refund on bus tickets should call in at the club offices after Monday. Anyone who wishes to travel to the re match will remain on the list and should look in the press for travel details as and when we get them.

In an effort to get as much support to Dagenham on Monday 4 March BUSA have decided to offer a discount to supporters wishing to travel on the official coaches. Anyone who travels to Scarborough on Saturday 9 Feb on BUSA Coaches will receive a 50% discount on the trip to Dagenham. That means that you can travel to Dagenham as a member for £5.00 and non-members will pay £6.00. The buses to Dagenham will leave Boston at 3.00pm on Monday afternoon to allow for roadworks on the M11 and the inevitable traffic congestion on the M25 Dartford crossing.

4 January There will be a pitch inspection at 10.30am at Belle Vue tomorrow to see if the match with Doncaster Rovers can go ahead. Details will be available from the club office shortly afterwards.

Golden Goal tickets which were purchased for the abandoned match with Nuneaton Borough on New Years Day will be valid for the re-match.

Former players Steve Circuit, Paul Raynor and Paul Watts have been released by Gainsborough Trinity.

BBC Radio Lincolnshire has reported that Anthony Elding is to spend some time with Tottenham Hotspur next week.

2 January When the home match with Nuneaton Borough, which was abandoned after 44 minutes yesterday, is re-arranged all supporters will be given free admission. Further details will follow in due course.

During yesterday's match Ross Weatherstone suffered a small facial injury when some teeth were forced through his gums. Ross was treated off the pitch and was able to go home as normal.

Chester City's website news page dated 31 December 2001 has the following item concerning Alan Lewer:

Midfielder Andy Porter has put his name forward for the vacant manager’s job at the Deva but there currently seem to be two main candidates for the job, Mark Wright and Graham Barrow. Chairman Steve Vaughan has already spoken to Wright and is checking to see if Graham Barrow can get permission from the Bury chairman before he’s interviewed tomorrow. Vaughan added: "Mark Wright told me he’d bring in two defenders if he was given the job, and he added he would bring in his friend Alan Lewer, but Lewer has also applied for the job. Everyone is aware that the Chester job is a good paying job for whoever takes it. But if we get relegated the club wouldn’t be able to substantiate wage demends. Whoever takes over has to give me a guarantee that they would keep Chester in the Conference because that is our priority at the moment."

1 January Following a 12 Noon pitch inspection today's match with Nuneaton Borough goes ahead.

30 December After yesterday's match manager Steve Evans, together with his brother Gee and General Manager John Blackwell, stayed at York Street for over two hours until 7.40pm. They replaced divots and rolled the pitch for a smooth surface to ensure the frost last night did not jeopardise the match against Nuneaton Borough on New Years Day from going ahead. Earlier today tarpaulins, kindly provided by Peter Taylor from Frampton, were laid over the penalty areas to reduce the effect of the low temperatures.

The club would also like to thank the volunteers who helped to tidy the ground this morning after yesterday's match.

29 December Defender, Dion Scott, has returned to Boston United for a further month's loan from Walsall of the Nationwide League First Division.

28 December As with the previous two home Nationwide Conference matches, the admission price for junior supporters (aged 16 and under), for the forthcoming matches with Forest Green Rovers and Nuneaton Borough to the terraces and the family section of the Stantons Stand will be £2.00. Entrance will be via turnstiles 4 and 9 for the match with Forest Green Rovers and turnstile 9 only for the match with Nuneaton Borough.

The match with Nuneaton Borough will be segregated and visiting supporters are to access the ground via turnstiles 3 and 4 only.

We are now in the process of filling a third bus for the trip to Doncaster Rovers on Saturday 5 January 2002. Departure time is 12.00pm from the York Street car park.

For the trip to Northwich on Saturday 12 January 2002 in the Umbro FA Trophy we are now filling a second bus with a view to running a third bus IF there is sufficient interest. Departure time is 10.00am from the York Street car park.

We still have a few seats available for the trip to Stalybridge on Saturday 26 January 2002, departing York Street at 10.00am.

All seats can be booked at either the club offices in Spayne Place during normal office hours, in the social club before and after every game or by ringing Lisa Butler on 01205 363047 after 6.00pm.

The bus organisers would like to make all passengers aware that the buses are strictly alcohol free. We feel we must point this out after someone brought some alcohol onto one of the buses for the trip to Stevenage the other week. The bus company told us that a bottle of spirits and cans of lager were found on the bus after the trip and felt duty bound to remind us of the legislation regarding alcohol. This is not our decision, it's the law and anyone found in possession of alcohol will be banned sine die from travelling with BUSA

24 December Boston United Chief Executive, Kevan Mugleston, has resigned from his position with the club. Kevan, who has been with Boston United for eight months, issued the following statement earlier this afternoon.

" It has become apparent from recent discussions that my position as Chief Executive of Boston United Football Club Limited is now definitely untenable.

I have therefore concluded that, in the best interests of all parties, I resign immediately from the position.

This has not been an easy decision to reach, particularly at this time of the Year.

It is essential that the proper focus and attention be put on the Club’s on the field performance and the success that has been achieved through a lot of hard work by a number of people. I will continue to support this success from the terraces.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Malkinson Family, and the Directors, Officials, Staff and all supporters of the Club for the support given to me during what has been an interesting and demanding time."

Boston United have signed goalkeeper Paul Newton, formerly with Scarborough, due to the injury to Nick Conroy. Paul was born on 16 January 1980; he signed for Scarborough on 1 August 1999 and made three first team for them.

The Sygnus Central Conference League Cup match between Burton Albion and Worcester City has been re-arranged for Wednesday 23 January 2002.

Boston United's next Sygnus Central Conference League match is a home fixture with Telford United, which is due to be played at the Bucks Head, Telford on Wednesday 9 January 2002.

Boston United congratulate Mick Small and his wife on the birth of their new baby on Friday 21 December 2001

20 December Last night the Reserves beat Telford United 4-1 in a League Cup match, Brian Hardie, Paul Hart, Mick Brown and Jamie Cook scored the goals.

Team: Nick Conroy, (Paul Newton 20), Marc Thompson, James Fletcher, Brian Hardie, Anthony Elding, Peter Costello, Paul Hart, Mick Brown (Neil Thompson 70), Carl Rose (Gordon Boateng 46), David Town, Jamie Cook.

Marc Thompson, Carl Rose, Paul Newton and Gordon Boateng are trialists.

After 20 minutes Nick Conroy suffered a serious leg injury, there was a deep wound, which was over one inch wide, an ambulance had to come onto the pitch to take him to hospital. Nick had a lot of stitches inserted in his leg; he was released from hospital in the early hours of the morning and is likely to be unavailable for a lengthy period.

In the semi-final Boston United are away to Burton Albion or Worcester City.

18 December This afternoon the Nationwide Conference advised Boston United that their away fixture with Dagenham & Redbridge has been transferred to Monday 4 March, from Saturday 2 March, to enable the match to be transmitted live by Sky Television.

Tomorrow the Reserves play a League Cup match away to Telford United; kick off is at 7.30pm.

The Boston United 2001 Christmas Raffle was drawn last night, the prize winners are below:

Prizes can be collected from the club office, telephone 01205 364406.

17 December BBC North Teletext has reported that York City midfielder, Marc Thompson, is having a trial with Boston United

14 December Paul Bastock is scheduled to make his 500^th competitive appearance for Boston United against Woking tomorrow; more details are in this week's Target and the match Programme.

12 December For the second Nationwide Conference match running (previously the match with Leigh RMI) on Saturday, the admission price for junior supporters (aged 16 and under) to the terraces and the family section of the Stantons Stand will be £2.00; entrance for these supporters will be via turnstiles four and nine. Supporters who hold a Junior Match Ticket Book will receive a free match programme upon production of their match ticket.

The match with Woking will not be segregated.

9 December Today's edition of The Non-League Paper has reported the following items:

1. On page two: "Scarborough owner Malcolm Reynolds has initiated winding up procedures against Conference leaders Boston United for missed payments over the Paul Ellender transfer. Bottom of the table Seadogs, who sold the defender to Boston for £60,000 in August, agreed to accept regular installments of £10,000 but the Pilgrims have missed two payments."
2. On page 25: "Paul Wilson has moved a step closer to fulfilling his ambition of managing Barnet after returning to the club as coach. The 37-year-old spent more than 12 years at Underhill before moving to Boston at the start of last season. He was released two weeks ago and was signed by Barnet manager John Still."

8 December For Tuesday's friendly with Liverpool, spectators who are paying on the night are to enter the ground using turnstile 3A from the York Street Car Park. The turnstiles will open at 5.45pm.

7 December The pre-season friendly with Liverpool, which was postponed in August, has now been re-arranged for Tuesday 11 December at York Street, kick off at 7.00pm. The match was confirmed during a telephone conversation between Boston United and Liverpool at 11.55am this morning. Tickets, which were purchased for the original date, will be valid and there will be cash turnstiles in operation for spectators who wish to attend who don't have a ticket. For more details contact the club office on 01205 364406.

Yesterday, Boston United beat Rushden & Diamonds 5-0 in a friendly fixture.

It is with great regret that I have to tell everyone that our former physiotherapist, Gerald Starling passed away yesterday. I am given to understand that he was involved in a road accident at Fosdyke on Wednesday evening whilst returning from a family funeral in Cambridgeshire. Sadly, Gerald lost his fight for life on Thursday evening.

He was club physiotherapist in the Mel Sterland era and a father figure to United's fledgling reserve side in those days. Of late, he had been working with the former United management team of Chris Cook and Dick Creasey at Holbeach United. Indeed he had been in the dugout, the previous evening for the Holbeach - Spalding United match.

Everyone at Boston United extends their sincere condolences to his wife Sue and the family. Gerald was truly one of life's good-guys!

6 December The Standard has reported that Boston United are in discussion with Walsall regarding extending Dion Scott's loan.

5 December The match against Hereford United on 18 February 2002, which is to be shown live by Sky Television, is scheduled to kick-off at 8.05pm.

4 December Last night in a reserves match Boston United lost 5-2 to Hereford United, David Town and Anthony Elding scored the goals.

Team: Conroy, Brown, Lodge, Wornham, Monington, Town, Fletcher, Costello (Hardie 15 minutes), Elding, Hart, Cook. Substitute: Rusk (not used).

3 December In the third round of the Umbro FA Trophy Boston United, who were number one in the draw, have been drawn away to Northwich Victoria; the match is to take place on Saturday 12 January 2002.

Boston United's home match with Hereford United is to shown live on Sky Television. The match is to be played on Monday 18 February 2002, it was originally scheduled for Saturday 16 February (the date of the fifth round of the FA Cup) but it has been moved at the request of Sky Television.

Visit the Boston United Christmas Raffle page at:

http://www.bostoninternet.co.uk/bufc/r2001.htm

You can buy your tickets there or sell tickets to help the Club.

29 November Boston United have arranged a Sygnus Central Conference fixture away to Hereford United for Monday 3 December 2001, kick off at 7.45pm.

27 November The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Steve Evans has informed them that he is aware of Hull City's interest in Daryll Clare, but he insisted that it would take a six-figure bid to move Clare from York Street.

23 November Wednesday's scheduled reserves fixture away to Hednesford Town was cancelled by Hednesford.

22 November For the match with Leigh RMI on Saturday the admission price for junior supporters (aged 16 and under) to the terraces and the family section of the Stantons Stand will be £2.00; entrance for these supporters will be via turnstiles four and nine.

From the beginning on December Boston United will be making available ticket offers for the Christmas season. Tickets for the ten remaining home Nationwide Conference matches, commencing with match with Forest Green Rovers on 29 December 2001 can be purchased at the following prices. Adults in the Stantons Stand at £75.00, adults on the terraces at £65.00 and Junior Match Tickets for both the terraces and the family section of the Stantons Stand at £20.00.

20 November The Malkinson Family confirm that they are unable to continue to financially support the Club. The costs are such that it is no longer possible nor reasonable that the expenditure should continue to be borne by the Family themselves.

They are prepared to guarantee that football can continue to be played at York Street for two years to enable the long-term future of the Club to be secured.

In the short term they consider that they should no longer remain as Directors. This will enable those who actively wish to see the Club continue, and are prepared to give their financial support, to take over the day to day control of the Club.

The Football Club wish to thank the Malkinson Family for their invaluable support and contribution towards the past and current success of the Club.

We do hope and trust that their extensive knowledge of football matters will continue to be available to the Club management.

Preliminary discussions have been held with a number of local businessmen, and hopefully, these will be taken further, but at present remain at an early stage. As soon as we have anything more tangible to report to the supporters we will be delighted to do so.

We reiterate that business continues to be as usual with all our energies being put into preparation for Saturday's match versus Leigh RMI.

We do look forward to supporters turning out in their usual large numbers to encourage the team to achieve its full potential with the strong possibility that, subject to one other result, we will be back at the top of the table.

19 November The article in yesterday's The Non-League Paper concerning the sale of a controlling interest in Boston United by the Malkinson family contained substantial inaccuracies. Discussions regarding the sale of the controlling interest have taken place in outline only, at no stage have details been discussed. As soon as there is something tangible to report supporters will be informed. In the meantime it is business as usual as the club concentrates on Saturday's match with Leigh RMI.

18 November Today's edition of the The Non-League Paper has reported that Steve Evans has received a ten-match touchline ban and in a dramatic U-turn, Boston Chairman Pat Malkinson has committed his financial backing to the club until at least the end of the season.

The paper has reported the Steve Evan's touchline ban, which begins tomorrow, was due to him being charged with "improper conduct" after clashing with officials during a match wth Hayes in September, an FA spokesman said he was found to have used "foul and abusive language."

In another article the paper has reported that Pat Malkinson has shelved plans to sell a 51 per cent controlling interest in the club. The article continued by saying the Malkinson family have been involved in negotiations with a local business consortium headed by mechanical wholesale millionaire Tony Dowse, but the sale is believed to have stalled due to a difference in valuations, Chief Executive, Kevan Muggleston, said negotiations could go on for some months, Malkinson met potential buyers last week and although no deal was concluded, members of the business consortium led by Dowse may instead be invited onto the board.

12 November Neil Thompson is tonight playing for Barnsley against Manchester United in a testimonial match for Eric Winstanley. Manchester United are expected to include Ryan Giggs, Laurent Blanc and Dwight Yorke in their squad.

Following the exit from the FA Cup Boston United will not have a match on Saturday.

Director, Colin Woodcock is 50 today.

7 November The Target has reported that there will be no further involvement with Boston United for striker Phil Gray following a breach of the club's eve-of-match disciplinary code.

6 November The Malkinson Family have reluctantly come to the conclusion that they do not wish to continue their financial support of Boston United Football Club.

The club has received financial support from Boston Borough Council and local businesses through advertising and sponsorship together with some local businesses offering cash support during every season. However, the majority of the financial burden has always fallen on the Malkinson Family.

Boston United currently lie second in the Nationwide Conference, three points behind the leaders. Boston United has the chance of being a Football League club next season.

The Family is proud of what has been achieved so far this season but now feel that they have supported the club as far as they could reasonably been expected to do so.

The Family invite any individual or group to carry the club forward. The Family's controlling share interest would be open for negotiation to give the next custodians of the club every incentive to provide a Football League club that the town of Boston so richly deserves.

The Family would like to express their thanks to all who have supported Boston United over the years and wish the club every success.

Tomorrow's scheduled Sygnus Central Conference fixture with Hereford has been cancelled due to injuries.

2 November Boston United have signed defender Dion Scott on loan for one month from Walsall of the Nationwide League First Division. Dion was born in Bearwood on 24 December 1980; he is 5ft 11in tall. Dion joined Walsall as a trainee on 1 August 1998, he is a former captain of their youth team, and he has made two appearances as substitute in the Nationwide League the latest being on 20 October 2001 in their match away to Sheffield Wednesday.

31 October The kick off time for the away match with Stevenage Borough on Saturday 10 November has been confirmed as 3.00pm.

28 October The following points were amongst those discussed at the Fans Forum on Friday 26 October 2001:

• York Street is being improved to bring up to the standard required for the Nationwide League. The work includes re-aligning the barriers on the terraces to create a direct path to the top of the terraces and gates onto the pitch; the work needs to be completed by the end of February.
• Boston United will be staying at York Street for the foreseeable future.
• Mark Freeman suffered a pelvic injury before the season started, he has seen three specialists and Boston United have submitted an insurance claim.
• Discussions are ongoing with Liverpool regarding the postponed friendly fixture, dates discussed so far have either clashed with UEFA Champions League matches or Liverpool Reserves fixtures.

25 October The Leicester City team that played Boston United last night was: Simon Royce, Lee Marshall (Ashley Lythe 66), Frank Sinclair (Danny Thomas 61), Calum Davidson (Junior Lewis 61), Matthew Heath, Derek Niven (Robert Purdie 74), Matt Jones (Steffan Oakes 45), Matthew Piper (Kevin Ellison 64), Ade Akinbiyi (Trevor Benjamin 59), James Scowcroft (Matt Jones 59), Andy Impey (Damian Delaney 61). Scowcroft (45 minutes) and Ellison (85 minutes) scored Leicester's goals.

The Standard has reported that the panel for tomorrow night's Fans Forum will be Steve Evans, Alan Lewer, Kevan Mugleston and John Blackwell.

24 October For the FA Cup match against Brigg Town on Saturday, although season ticket holders have to pay for admission, any holder of a season ticket for the Stantons' Stand is entitled to use the reserved seat they normally use for Nationwide Conference games.

23 October Leicester City manager Dave Bassett has confirmed that the squad he will be bringing to York Street for the friendly match against Boston United will be the same as that which played against Liverpool in the Premiership on Saturday (Ian Walker, Lee Marshall, Matt Elliott, Frank Sinclair, Callum Davidson, Matthew Jones, Dennis Wise, Robbie Savage, Trevor Benjamin, Ade Akinbiyi, Dean Sturridge, Matt Piper, Andrew Impey, Junior Lewis, Matthew Heath and Simon Royce). He also hopes to include Muzzy Izzet in the squad if he is fit. The match kicks off at 7.45pm on Wednesday evening (24th October). The special admission prices are £7.00 adults and £5.00 concessions for both seating and terracing.

The FA Cup sponsored by AXA will be on show in the Social Club during the Fans Forum on Friday.

21 October We have listened to supporters comments regarding admission prices and have tried various different admission schemes for junior supporters, none of which have produced any significant increase in the attendance by junior supporters.

We also acknowledge that the attendance at certain matches has been affected by the competition from International and European matches on television, and the way the fixtures have fallen, all outside the club's control.

The season has now reached the stage where there should be fewer mid-week matches and should settle into a pattern of a home Saturday Nationwide Conference match every fortnight.

In recognition of these difficulties at the start to the season in the way the fixtures have fallen, it is now appropriate to bring forward the existing plans to introduce a Family Section.

Therefore, with effect from the next home Conference match, v. Southport on Saturday 3 November, seats 1 to 12 of rows A to G in the Green Section of the Stantons Stand, the first section from the Town End, will be designated a Family Section and a no smoking policy will be in operation.

To gain admission to the Family Section adults will pay the normal Stantons Stand price and supporters under 16 will pay £4.00. Admission for supporters under 16 will be by individual tickets, which will need to be purchased in advance from the club office during normal opening hours or the club shop before matches.

The price has been set at a level that will not undercut those supporters who have made their commitment in buying a Junior League Match Ticket Book (JLMTB) yet should act as an incentive for more juniors to attend.

Any junior supporter who has a JLMTB for the Stantons Stand may continue to use their current seat, they do not have to use the Family Section. Any Terracing JLMTB holder can redeem the relevant Match Voucher at a value of £2, meaning the Family Section Ticket would only cost the additional £2. The JLMTB will need to be brought to the Club when purchasing the new ticket.

It is not possible to change the mid-week night when fixtures are played during mid-season but the choice of night will be reviewed for next season.

The Non-League Paper has reported that Bolton Wanderers have made a £150,000 offer for Simon Weatherstone, but the deal has temporarily broken down because the clubs have not agreed on the fee.

18 October In the Fourth Qualifying Round of the FA Cup sponsored by AXA, Boston United will play Brigg Town at 3.00pm on Saturday 27 October. In last night's replay Brigg beat Farsley Celtic 4-3 after extra time and after being 3-0 down at half time. The admission prices for the match, which have been agreed by the FA Boston United and Brigg Town, are Stantons Stand adults £9.50 concessions £8.50, terraces adults £8.50 concessions £7.50, there is an admission price of £5.00 for supporters under 14 who must use turnstiles 4 and 9 only. If a replay is required it will be at Brigg on Wednesday 31 October at 7.45pm.

For next Wednesday's match with Leicester City (kick off at 7.45pm) the special admission prices are adults £7.00 and concessions £5.00 for both seating and terracing.

Boston United have resigned from their position as a member of the PASE Youth Conference.

Next week's scheduled reserves fixtures, a league cup match away to Telford United, has been called off due to the friendly match with Leicester City and will be played at a later date.

17 October Boston United's open training session at Freiston next week has been moved to Tuesday 23 October from Wednesday 24 October, other details of the event remain the same.

The Target has reported that Boston United have arranged a friendly match with Leicester City for next Wednesday, 24 October, kick off at 7.45pm.

The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Paul Raynor has signed for Gainsborough Trinity.

15 October In the Fourth Qualifying Round of the FA Cup sponsored by AXA, Boston United have been drawn at home to Farsley Celtic (Unibond League Division One) or Brigg Town (Northern Counties East League), the match is due to be played on Saturday 27 October. Farsley and Brigg drew 2-2 at Farsley on Saturday and they replay the match at Brigg on Wednesday.

The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Oxford United full-back, Paul Powell, has been the subject of an enquiry by Steve Evans.

14 October The Non-League Paper has reported that Simon Weatherstone has the chance of a £150,000 move to Bolton Wanderers and that he will spend a week at the Reebok Stadium being watched by Sam Allardyce.

BUSA are now in the process of trying to fill a second coach for the trip to Underhill on Saturday for the game against Barnet. Bookings can be made at either the club office or by calling Sandra and Paul Richmond on 01205 359480. Andy and Lisa Butler are on holiday all week, and won't be home until Friday afternoon. Cost for the bus is £10 members and £12.50 non-members, and the bus departs York Street at 11.30am.

We are also now taking bookings for the trip to Stevenage Borough on 10 November. The first bus is now full; bookings for the second bus will be on a first come first served basis. Cost is as above and departure time for this game will be a little later, 11.45am from York Street.

BUSA are in the process of producing matchday posters to advertise all Boston United HOME games after consultations with the Chief Executive. If any supporter who lives in the outlying areas of Boston can help by putting up a poster in a shop/office/factory/window etcetera, please get in touch with either Andy Butler (01205 363047) Dale Allitt (01205 367883) or Andy Robinson at (andy.robinson@paragon-labels.co.uk) and we will be pleased to help. Areas we are targeting are Skegness, Spilsby, Horncastle, Spalding and Sleaford, and of course any villages within a 20 mile radius of Boston.

11 October Boston United and Liverpool are still in discussion regarding the outstanding friendly fixture, but a definite date for the fixture is still to be decided.

Need something to do with the kids at half term? Want to see Boston United for free?!! Steve and the lads are having a training session on Wednesday 24th October from 11am until 1pm. It is being held at the training ground (Freiston Playing Field, Bull Pasture, Freiston). Members of the public are invited to come and watch-FOR FREE!! Light refreshments will be available with all proceeds being given to the Lincolnshire Football Association Benevolent Fund.

The following items were reported in the Target yesterday:

• Phil Gray has joined Boston United with a view to a five-figure permanent transfer deal.
• Monday's scheduled PASE Youth Conference fixture for the Youth Team at home to Wealdstone was called off, their next home fixture against Cambridge City on Monday 15 October will be at Freiston.
• In the recent FA Youth Cup match against Grantham Town Michael Sneddon suffered a double break of his leg and Brian Hardy suffered severe ankle ligament damage.
• Midfielder Thomas Elwick has left Boston United and returned to his native Wales.

9 October Boston United have signed forward Phil Gray from Oxford United on loan for one month, he is in the squad for tomorrow's match with Morecambe. Oxford United's website has reported that there is an option to make the move permanent at the end of the loan period. Philip Gray was born in Belfast on 2 October 1968; he is 5ft 9in tall. He has made 26 appearances for Northern Ireland and scored six goals, his club details are:

8 October Boston United are selling tickets for Wednesday's match with Morecambe to supporters under 16 at £3.50 for both the terraces and Stantons Stand. The tickets will be available from the club office during it's normal opening hours on Wednesday 10 October and from the club shop before the match.

7 October The Non-League Paper has reported that Steve Evans is wanted by Motherwell of the Scottish Premier League and Northampton Town of the Nationwide Second Division.

5 October The Daily Telegraph has reported that Ken Charlery has signed for Dagenham & Redbridge.

4 October At lunchtime today, Ken Charlery cancelled his Boston United registration with the Football Association and Nationwide Conference.

Boston United are selling Adult and Child tickets for the Stantons Stand at £12.50 for Saturday's match with Scarborough. The tickets can be purchased from the club office during it's normal opening hours tomorrow and on Saturday morning and from the club shop before the match.

Boston United have noted the recent comment on Pilgrims Patter regarding the issue of change at the turnstiles and are considering action to solve the problem. The club welcomes constructive comments from supporters who put their real name to their comments.

The Standard has reported that Steve Evans has had a £70,000 bid rejected for a midfielder currently with Second Division club and he has tabled bids for another midfielder and a forward.

3 October The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Ken Charlery has been granted a free transfer by Boston United, but Steve Evans has said that he is still keen to retain his services. Evans said that Charlery had been pushing for a move since the Summer and added: "He wasn't involved against Telford because he had gone away to think things over."

BBC North Teletext has reported that Gary Brabin has joined Torquay United on a two-year deal.

30 September The Non-League Paper has reported that former Scarborough manager Neil Thompson is helping Boston United in a short-term coaching capacity, Steve Evans has tabled what is believed to be a £70,000 offer for an unnamed player with a Nationwide Second Division club, and Mike Marsh has reluctantly quit the game.

28 September Next Saturday, 6 October, the Boston United Social Club will open at 11.00am and all draught beer and lager will be £1.50 per pint. Boston United will play Scarborough at 1.00pm and then the World Cup Qualifying match England versus Greece from Old Trafford will be shown live on two large screens from 3.00pm. In the evening "Happy Daze" will provide the entertainment.

27 September In yesterday's Nationwide PASE Youth Conference fixture Boston United defeated Bedford College 11-0; the goalscorers were Eaton (five), Hart (four), Hardy and Elwick. Team: Chambers, Hurley, Fletcher (Lovelace 68), Hardy (Smith 65), Taylor, Wornham, Roach, Elwick (Long 60), Eaton, Hart and Fergus.

In the first round of the PASE League Cup Boston United have been drawn away to Loughborough Students, the match is scheduled for week commencing 12 November. Last season Loughborough Students were the champions of all the Nationwide PASE Youth Leagues.

For the home fixture with Scarborough on Saturday 6 October (kick off at 1.00pm) Boston United are issuing a combined adult and child ticket for the terraces at £10.00. The ticket has been referred to as a "Dad and Lad" ticket but it actually applies to any adult and child whether male or female. The tickets will be available from the club office on Friday 5 October and Saturday 6 October during normal opening hours.

25 September Four Haven High School soccer stars have been signed up by Boston United to bolster their Youth squad. All four lads trained with the first team and the Academy on Tuesday and are in the squad for the Academy match against Bedford College at Kempston Rovers' ground on Wednesday. For full details click here.

25 September Tomorrow's scheduled Sygnus Central Conference fixture at home to Tamworth has been called off as Tamworth have a County Cup match, a new date for the match is to be arranged.

The Lincolnshire Echo has reported that Mike Marsh is set to leave Boston United due to travelling difficulties.

24 September The Nationwide Conference website has reported that Mike Marsh is in talks with two clubs with a view to leaving Boston United.

Boston United have been discussing with Liverpool a new date for the friendly fixture, two dates were suggested to Rick Parry but they were not acceptable to Liverpool. Liverpool have reaffirmed that the match will take place as soon as possible and Boston United are satisfied that they are committed to the match.

The FA Youth Cup match at home to Grantham Town has been confirmed for Monday 1 October at York Street; kick off at 7.45pm. Admission prices are £2.00 for adults with concessions at £1.00.

Boston United's first fixture in the Nationwide PASE Youth Conference this season is away to Bedford College on Wednesday 26 September. The match will be played at Kempston Rovers ground with a 2.30pm Kick off.

22 September Boston United have signed Gary Brabin from Hull City, he was born in Liverpool on 9 December 1970; he is 5ft 11in tall. Gary's previous clubs are Stockport County, Runcorn, Doncaster Rovers, Bury, Blackpool, Lincoln City and Hull City; he has made 254 first team appearances (30 as substitute) and scored 22 goals.

The home Nationwide Conference match with Scarborough on Saturday 6 October will kick off at 1.00pm due to the England versus Greece World Cup Qualifying Match being played at 3.00pm on the same day. The kick off time was set when the fixtures were first published.

The FA Youth Cup match with Grantham Town has been provisionally arranged for Monday 1 October, kick off at 7.45pm

21 September Lee Howarth has been transferred to Kettering Town for a small fee.

Following last night's 4-2 victory over Boldmere St Michael in the FA Youth Cup, Boston United have been drawn at home to Grantham Town in the next round; the date is to be decided. In the last round Grantham defeated Burton Albion 5-4. The team last night was Reynolds, Roach, Fletcher, Hardy, Taylor, Wornham, Sneddon, Elwick, Eaton, Hart, Fergus and the substitutes were Malkinson, Hughes and Long. Ben Eaton scored a hat-trick and Tom Elwick the other goal.

20 September Full Planning Permission has been granted for the development of the Playing for Success building between the Stantons Stand and the York Street Stand. The next stage is for the final project costing and building programme to be agreed. It is hoped to have the building ready to use by the end of the year.

The club is also awaiting a final decision from the Football Licensing Authority on the outstanding ground improvements. A positive decision is expected within the next week; the work is then aimed to be completed by the end of the year.

18 September Anthony Elding has joined Bedford Town of the Ryman League Premier Division on loan for one month; he is in their squad for tonight's match with Heybridge Swifts. Also joining Bedford Town is former striker Micky Nuttell.

Steve Appleby has signed for Gainsborough Trinity and is in their squad for tonight's match with Gateshead.

13 September Boston United are continuing the offer of Junior Match Terrace Tickets at £5.00 for supporters under 14 years of age who are accompanied to the match by an adult for the forthcoming fixtures with Dagenham and Redbridge and Hayes. The tickets will be available from the Club Office and Club Shop prior to the matches similar to the previous arrangements.

7 September BBC Radio Lincolnshire has reported that Jim Dick has joined Clydebank of the Scottish League Second Division for three months.

6 September Yesterday, Lee Howarth joined Kettering Town on loan for one month.

The Standard has reported that it was Reading who bid for Simon Weatherstone last week and Walsall have also shown an interest.

3 September Boston United's FA Youth Cup away to Boldmere St Michael will be played on Thursday 20 September; kick off at 7.30pm.

The special junior terrace tickets of £5.00 for the match with Doncaster Rovers can be purchased from the club office between 9.00am and 4.00pm on Wednesday and from the club shop until 15 minutes before kick off. For the match with Yeovil Town the tickets can be purchased from the club office between 9.00am and 12 noon on Saturday and from the club shop until 15 minutes before kick off. Junior supporters using these tickets must be accompanied to the matches by an adult.

31 August Boston united can confirm that they have rejected outright a £75,000 bid from an unnamed Nationwide Second Division club for Simon Weatherstone. The Second Division club does not want their identity to be divulged at this stage.

The kick off for tomorrow's match at Northwich Victoria is confirmed to be 3.00pm.

30 August Earlier today Boston United beat RAF Coningsby 9-0 in a friendly match at Freiston. Gez Murphy (five), Micky Brown, Mark Angel, Matt Elwick and Peter Costello scored the goals.

In the FA Youth Cup second qualifying round Boston United will play away to Boldmere St Michael from Sutton Coldfield, who beat Bedworth in the previous round. The date for the match is to be decided.

Mike Marsh will become player/coach of Boston United on Monday; his duties will include the first team squad and YTS players.

For the next home matches with Doncaster Rovers and Yeovil Town the club are selling Junior Matchday Tickets for the terraces at £5.00 each; the ticketholder must be under 14 years of age and accompanied to the match by an adult. The tickets will be available from the club office on the day before the match and from the club shop for an hour before the match.

The next home match with Doncaster Rovers has been designated a Category A fixture, which means that the Doncaster supporters will be segregated in the York Street Stand.

26 August Kevin Sullivan has left his position of Physiotherapist and has been replaced by Jim Woods. Jim has returned to Boston United following approximately three years as Grimsby Town's Reserve and Youth team physiotherapist.

18 August Paul Fewings has been transferred to Chesham United of the Ryman League Premier Division.

All Boston United Reserves' fixtures in the Sygnus Central Conference will be played away, unless an opponent wants to play a match at Boston. Boston United's application to join the league was only accepted on condition that matches are played away.

17 August The club office will be open from 9.00am to 2.00pm tomorrow, an additional two hours, for the collection of season tickets. It would be appreciated if people could come as early as possible to avoid having to set up a collection at the ground before the match.

Boston United have completed the signing of Scarborough and England defender, Paul Ellender, this afternoon for an undisclosed record fee; he is in the squad for tomorrow's match with Margate. Paul was born in Scunthorpe on 21 October 1974, he is 6ft 1in tall, prior to Scarborough he was with Altrincham and Gainsborough Trinity.

16 August BBC North Teletext (page 394) has reported that Boston United have made a bid for Paul Ellender of Scarborough and that Oxford United have also made a bid for Ellender together with Steve Brodie.

The Standard has reported that Warren Hackett hasn't been offered a contract and Carl Heggs has joined Forest Green Rovers.

The Standard has also reported that Boston United have submitted plans for a new Playing for Success facility and expect them to be passed imminently and the facility to be operational by December. The two-floor development will be situated between the Stantons Stand and the York Street Stand. The downstairs area will have 18 PCs in a network, an interactive white board, several web cameras and a digital camera. The first floor area will be used as a reception lounge for officials of Boston United and visiting clubs, with a gangway leading to the newly-erected directors' box in the Stantons Stand. Funding will come from the DFES and Boston United.

Season tickets are now being issued from the club office.

15 August The season tickets were being delivered to Boston United this afternoon and will be available for collection from the club office after 11.00am tomorrow. If anyone will have any problems with obtaining their ticket please telephone the club office on 01205 364406.

The Sygnus Central Conference match away to Burton Albion has been transferred to Thursday 6 September at 7.45pm to avoid a clash with the England versus Albania match.

Tomorrow at 2.00pm the YTS team play a friendly match against the British Police at Nettleham Police Headquarters near Lincoln.

14 August Mickey Brown, who has been playing for Boston United in the pre-season friendly matches, has signed for the club. Michael Brown was born in Birmingham on 8 February 1968; he is 5ft 9in tall. During his career Mickey has played for Shrewsbury, Bolton Wanderers, Preston North End and Rochdale, He has made 544 first team appearances (83 as substitute) and scored 44 goals. On 15 August 1991 Bolton Wanderers paid £100,000 to transfer Mickey from Shrewsbury.

There are six spaces for disabled supporters in box alongside the Stantons Stand.

13 August There has been a further delay in the club receiving the season tickets. Today, Kevan Muggleston was driving to the printers to collect when he got a telephone call to say they were not ready and there are other clubs in the same position. The club is unhappy about the events which are beyond its control as the season tickets were ordered at the end of May from printers who have provided a good service in previous years.

Tonight's match with Scunthorpe United is being hosted by Boston United on their behalf and at their request.

10 August The first three fixtures for the Sygnus Central Conference are:

Wednesday 5 September Burton Albion Away 7.45pm

Wednesday 12 September Worcester City Home 7.45pm

Wednesday 26 September Tamworth Home 7.45pm

There has been a further delay at the printers of the season tickets; they are now expected to be received on Tuesday and available for collection on Wednesday. Boston United regret the delay which is out of their control.

9 August The Standard has reported that Steve Evans is close to concluding a new five-year contract with Boston United.

Last night's match with Worcester City featured James Evans, a trialist goalkeeper, together with an unnamed trialist wearing the number three shirt. Worcester's second goal was scored by Phil Stant who managed Lincoln City last season.

8 August Boston United had hoped to collect the season tickets from the printers on the way to the match at Worcester City this afternoon, but due to a delay at the printers they were not ready. It is now hoped that they will be received by the weekend.

The admission prices for the Lincolnshire County Cup match with Scunthorpe United on Monday will be the same as for the friendly matches with Peterborough United and Northampton Town for everyone.

Boston United are issuing a Junior League Match Ticket Book for the Stantons Stand costing £75.00, which will be available to supporters under 14 years of age. As with the ticket book for the terraces holders will also be entitled to 10% discount in the club shop. Supporters applying for a ticket book will need to provide a passport sized photograph and the club will need to see the applicant's birth certificate. To apply for a book or to amend arrangements for tickets made previously contact the club office.

6 August Tonight's scheduled match with Farnborough Town has been cancelled.

The fixtures for the Sygnus Central Conference are expected to be received within the next few days.

4 August Northampton Town's team for today's match was: Adam Sollitt, Richard Lopes, Chris Carruthers, Michael Laws, Paul Dempsey, Mark Spooner, Sam McKeever, Roy Hunter, Lee Hodges, Daniel Lowe, Richard Graham. After 61 minutes Aaron Cavill, Chris Thompson and Ryan Nash replaced Mark Spooner, Roy Hunter and Daniel Lowe. After 83 minutes Neil Chamelovier replaced Chris Carruthers. Substitutes not used were Ben Daley, Mark Bunn, Bobby White and Matt Howard.

Boston United's goals were scored by Mark Monington (49 minutes), Ken Charlery (60), Dan Wornham (64), Carl Heggs (73) and Anthony Elding (88). Chris Carruthers scored for Northampton after 83 minutes.

3 August On Tuesday the first team squad travel to the National Sports Training Centre at Lilleshall for four days of intensive training.

2 August Liverpool's Assistant Secretary, Jonathan Hargreaves, has said that they will make every effort to re-arrange the match in the next two months.

1 August The pre-season friendly match at home to Liverpool next Monday (6 August 2001) has been postponed because Liverpool have injured players, a squad in Amsterdam and they will be flying to Israel or Finland on Monday for a Champions League match. Liverpool felt that they would not be doing justice to the paying supporters with the resources they were left with. It is hoped that a new date for the match will be announced later this month, Boston United are grateful to Liverpool for their consideration in re-arranging this fixture. Tickets for the match will be valid for the re-arranged date. Further details will be available in due course.

The Bolton Wanderers team which played Boston United on Monday was: Steve Banks, Dean Holden, Simon Charlton, Paul Warhurst, Mick Whitlow (Wayne Buchanan 83), Billy McKinley (Alan O'Hare 77), Akinori Nishizawa (Ryan Baldicchino 80), David Norris (Cieran Ryan 85), Michael Ricketts (Emanuelle Morini 87), Per Frandsen (Paul Wheatcroft 87), Bo Hansen (Chris Downey 80). Substitute not used: Chris Williams. Bolton's goals were scored by Nishizawa (28, 39, 63) and Frandsen (75). The referee was Trevor Parkes of Birmingham.

Bolton Wanderers manager, Sam Allardyce, made the draw for week 673 of the Alphabet Forecast.

During last night's fixture with Wisbech, Andrew Long suffered a facial injury; he was taken to the Pilgrim Hospital for treatment and was released at 3.30am.

28 July In today's matches Boston United defeated Peterborough United 2-1 at York Street and lost 2-0 to Lincoln United at Ashby Avenue.

Peterborough United
The team playing Peterborough was:

Bastock, Rusk, Gould, Hackett, Wornham, Costello, Cook, Marsh, Clare, Town, Brown. Substitutes: Murphy, Monington, Simon Weatherstone (Costello 46 minutes), Heggs (Clare 46), Angel (Brown 78), Lodge (Hackett 80), Clifford (Marsh 88).

The goals were scored by Daryl Clare after 24 minutes and Carl Heggs after 61 minutes, Howard Forinton scored for Peterborough after 27 minutes.

Warren Hackett is a central defender on trial with Boston United after being with Barnet last season and before that with Mansfield Town, Doncaster Rovers, Leyton Orient and Tottenham Hotspur. Mansfield paid £50,000 for Warren when they signed him from Doncaster on 20 October 1995. Forward Carl Heggs is also on trial, he was with Carlisle United last season and before that with Chester City, Rushden & Diamonds, Northampton Town, Swansea City, Bristol Rovers, West Bromwich Albion and Leicester United. Swansea paid £60,000 for Carl when they signed him from Bristol Rovers on 27 July 1995.

Lincoln United
The team playing Lincoln United was:  Conroy, Long, Fletcher, Taylor, Joyce, Roach, Hart, Harper, Elding, Snedon, Fergus. Substitutes: Eaton (Sneddon 46 minutes), Elwick (Conroy 7), Mackay (Fergus 46), Smith (Roach 46).

After 7 minutes Nick Conroy suffered head and rib injuries when he jumped to collect a cross, he was challenged by a Lincoln United player who appeared to catch Nick with his elbow. As a result of the challenge Nick released the ball, the Lincoln player tapped it into the net and the referee awarded a goal. Nick was taken to hospital and was later discharged after treatment.

After 83 minutes Lincoln United scored their second goal with Boston United appealing for an offside decision.

Yesterday the Manchester United squad which played Boston United on Wednesday trained with Boston United at Freiston.

Bolton Wanderers are expected to include their new Japanese signing, Akinori Nishizawa in their squad for the match on Monday.

25 July Earlier tonight Boston United drew 1-1 with a Manchester United XI, Ben Muirhead scored for Manchester United after 45  minutes and Ross Weatherstone equalised for Boston United after 55 minutes. The teams were:

Boston United: Paul Bastock, Mark Clifford, Andy Lodge, Ross Weatherstone, Mark Monington, Simon Weatherstone, Peter Costello, Mike Marsh, Jez Murphy, Daryl Clare, Mark Angel. Substitutes: Simon Rusk ( Simon Weatherstone 72
Minutes), Nick Conroy, Jamie Cook (Angel 65), David Town, Michael Brown (Costello 54), Anthony Elding (Murphy 54), James Gould, Dan Wornham (Ross Weatherstone 65), Matthew Roach (Marsh 83), Stuart Fergus (Clare 72).

Manchester United: David Moran, Andy Taylor, Kris Taylor, David Fox, Alan Tate, Paul Tierney, Ben Muirhead, Gary Sampson, Daniel Nardiello, Matthew Williams, John Rankin. Substitutes: John Cogger (A Taylor 88), James Joysey,
Kalam Moonlaruck (Muirhead 83), Chris Humphreys (C Taylor 80), Colin Heath (Williams 74), Steven Clegg).

The attendance was 5184.

The Eastern Daily Press has reported that Micky Nuttell has signed for Wisbech Town and the Non-League Paper has reported that Lennie Curtis has signed for Hednesford Town.

25 July Following a conversation with Sam Allardyce earlier today, Steve Evans has confirmed that Premiership side, Bolton Wanderers will be bringing their full first team squad for Monday night’s friendly at York Street. It is hoped that former Pilgrim, David Norris will also play some part in the match.

Admission prices for the above fixture are :

Stantons Stand : £9.50 & £8.50
Terraces : £8.50 & £7.50

25 July Admission prices for the Peterborough match (Saturday July 28^th) and Northampton match (Saturday August 4^th)
are :

Stantons Stand : £8.00 & £5.00
Terraces : £7.00 & £4.00

19 July Boston United have signed striker Daryl Clare from Grimsby Town; he has been on trial for the past seven days and is expected to make his debut at the weekend. Daryl was born in Jersey on 1 August 1978; he is 5ft 9in tall. Joining Grimsby as a trainee on 9 December 1995, Daryl made 99 first team appearances (59 as substitute) and scored 10 goals. Last season Daryl had loan spells with Northampton Town and Cheltenham Town, at Northampton Daryl made 15 appearances (three as substitute) scoring three goals, and at Cheltenham he made four appearances and scored no goals.

Stamford AFC have withdrawn from the FA Youth Cup giving Boston United a bye in the First Qualifying Round. In the Second Qualifying Round Boston United will be away to Bedworth United or Boldmere St Michael, with the match to be played on or before Saturday 22 September 2001.

Earlier today, Boston United's main sponsor Finn Forest, represented by Nick Davenport and Mark Bird officially announced the sponsorship by presenting a sponsored shirt to Chief Executive Kevan Mugleston and General Manager John Blackwell at their offices at The Old Golf Course, Skirbeck.

The Standard has reported the following items:

• The squad for Saturday's match with King's Lynn includes: Bastock, Rusk, Lodge, S Weatherstone, Monington, Freeman, Angel, Marsh, Brown (trialist), Murphy, Town, Clare, Fear (trialist), Hardy, Eaton, Long and Roach.
• The squad for Saturday's match with Ilkeston includes: Conroy, Clifford, Hall (trialist), R Weatherstone, Wornham, Cook, Hall (trialist), Gould, Elding, Fewings, Charlery, Costello, Elwick, Joyce, Sneddon, Hart and Fletcher.
• Doors will open at 6.00pm for the match with Manchester United on Wednesday (kick off is at 7.45pm) and a commemorative programme will be on sale at £2.00.

18 July Boston United were due to play a private practice match away to RAF Coningsby this afternoon, but the match was called off due to a water-logged pitch, the squad had a training session instead.

14 July Boston United's new physiotherapist is Kevin Sullivan who has previously been with Scarborough.

13 July The Annual General Meeting of the Lincolnshire Football Association was held at Lincoln City's Sincil Bank ground last night. Amongst the presentations was a Service to Football award to General Manager, John Blackwell, for his 23 years as Secretary of Boston United

9 July Boston United's squad commenced full-time training today at Freiston Football Club.

The referees for the pre-season friendlies are expected to be:

Manchester United - Fraser Stretton
Peterborough United - Phil Joslin
Bolton Wanderers - Neale Barry
Northampton Town - Uriah Rennie
Liverpool - Peter Jones

The result of the Boston United Invitational Am Am Golf Tournament on Thursday 5 July was:

First: Tim Ruck Agricultural Team One
Second: Tim Ruck Agricultural Team Two
Third: Lindisposables

4 July The pre-season friendly fixture with Bolton Wanderers has been brought forward from Wednesday 1 August 2001 to Monday 30 July 2001, kick off at 7.45pm. The change of date is to enable Bolton Wanderers to bring a full squad to the match as they fly abroad for a pre-season tournament on Wednesday 1 August.

2 July Stan Collymore has decided against playing for Boston United, he has said he has retired from football and has decided not to come out of it.

Gerrard "Gez" Murphy is now registered as a Boston United player, he was born on 9 June 1976 and was with Telford United last season and previously with VS Rugby and Gresley Rovers. Gez signed for Telford on 20 March 1998; he made 77 appearances (24 as substitute) for them and scored 30 goals.

The first three Nationwide Conference fixtures for next season are:

Saturday 18 August Home Margate

Tuesday 21 August Away Woking

Saturday 25 August Away Forest Green Rovers

30 June Earlier this year as part of the plans for full-time football, Boston United applied to enter the FA Youth Cup for the first time in 23 years. Today a letter from the Football Association has advised that the application has been accepted and Boston United have been drawn away to Stamford in the first round, with the match to be played on or before 1 September 2001. To participate in the competition players must be aged 18 or under on 1 August 2001.

Ross Weatherstone has had a conviction for an attack on a taxi driver overturned by a Crown Court Judge. Ross, who was former club Oxford United when the alleged incident was said to have taken place, had originally been found guilty of the attack. However, Ross appealed against the conviction and now Reading Crown Court has overturned it after hearing the Crown Prosecution Service has no evidence against him.

At the forum in the Social Club last night, compared by Michael Hortin of BBC Radio Lincolnshire, the following points were made.

• Steve Evans had spoken to Stan Collymore earlier in the day; a telephone call is expected at approximately 10.30am on Monday when Stan is expected to say whether or not he is interested in playing for Boston United.
• The budgeted gate for next season is 2250.
• The tickets for the match with Manchester United are sold out, tickets for the match with Liverpool are almost sold out (enquiries for tickets have been received from Liverpool), and enquiries have been made as to when the tickets for the match with Bolton Wanderers go on sale.
• 12 lads have been recruited for the YTS squad, nine are from the Lilleshall trials, and one formerly with Tottenham Hotspur has turned down league clubs to join Boston United.
• Steve Evans expects the following clubs to be amongst those challenging for the League Championship next season: Dagenham and Redbridge, Doncaster Rovers, Stevenage Borough and Morecambe.
• Boston United have applied to enter the Lincolnshire Under 18 League, the Jackson Workwear Charity Cup and the Nationwide PASE Youth Conference.
• Jim Dick has expressed a wish to remain part-time and is therefore unlikely to be part of the squad for next season.

During the evening there was introduction to the Boston United Supporters Association (BUSA), which has been set up by a group of fans. BUSA has been put together to provide the fans with a voice and the feeling of being part of Boston United community. They are currently in the early days of enrolling new members but are also attempting to recruit members willing to play a bigger part by joining the committee, if you are interested contact Dale Allitt, Andy Butler or any other representative of BUSA.

Members of BUSA will be entitled to several exclusive privileges. These will include: free membership to the Boston United Social Club, 10% discount at the club shop, priority to big match tickets before they go on general sale, a regular newsletter and discount travel on executive coaches.

BUSA are introducing a new concept in away travel by providing a family orientated executive coach to all Saturday away matches. This will enable supporters to travel on a 45-seat coach, which has toilet facilities, television, video and a drinks machine. BUSA members will benefit by travelling for £2 less than non-members. There will be a flat rate for BUSA members of £10 to all matches.

BUSA membership costs £10 per anum for adults and £5 for children, students and old age pensioners.

29 June Boston United have signed left-sided player James Gould from Northampton Town. James was born in Rushden on 15 January 1982; he signed for Northampton Town on 1 August 1999 and has made three first team appearances.

Next season's Nationwide Conference fixtures are expected to be published early next week.

28 June Boston United have today spoken to Stan Collymore's agent regarding him playing for Boston United, after receiving permission from Real Oviedo.

The Standard has reported the following items:

• Jez Murphy is due to sign for Boston United depending upon a medical examination tomorrow. Murphy, 24, is currently out of contract after being with Telford United last season, he has agreed a two year deal with Boston United.
• The panel for tomorrow night's forum is expected to be Steve Evans, Alan Lewer, Kevan Muggleston and John Blackwell, and the new away shirt will be unveiled.
• Boston Borough Council have granted Boston United £12,500 to assist with ground improvements including a new welcome sign. The decision was made at a meeting of the council's cabinet yesterday. Council chief executive Mark James said: "It will be money well spent. The sign will extend a warm welcome to visitors and give the town some useful advertising as well."

27 June The manager and other officials of Boston United have spoken to Real Oviedo today to discuss talking to Stan Collymore. Stan Collymore is under contract with Real Oviedo.

General Manager, John Blackwell, is to be presented with a Valued Service Award by the Lincolnshire Football Association for his services to football. The award is to be presented at the Annual Meeting of the Lincolnshire Football Association at the Centre Spot Club, Sincil Bank, Lincoln on 12 July 2001.

26 June The first round Lincolnshire Senior Cup match between Scunthorpe United and Boston United has been arranged for Monday 13th August. The venue has been switched from Glanford Park to York Street.

The friendly between a Boston United team and Harlow has been postponed due to a clash with an athletics match on the same date. A pre-season friendly at Farnborough Town against a Boston United team has been arranged for Monday 6th August.

23 June The club has been overwhelmed by the demand for tickets for the pre-season game against Liverpool. In the two days the tickets have been on sale, the Stantons' Stand has almost sold out and tickets in all other areas of the ground are also selling well.

23 June Andrew Stanhope, who was released at the end of the season, has today signed up with Gainsborough Trinty. He joins up with a number of other former Pilgrims, including Joby Gowshall, Phil Brown, Paul Watts, Steve Circuit and physio Peter Jellett.

Steve Evans has revealed that he is interested in signing up former England international striker Stan Collymore for Boston United for the coming season. Thirty year old Collymore recently announced his retirement from the game, shortly after joining Spanish side Real Oviedo on a free transfer from Bradford City. Previous clubs include Leicester, Fulham, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, Southend, Crystal Palace and Stafford Rangers.

23 June Here is the list of tee times for the Boston United Invitational Golf Tournament (sponsored by Lafarge Aggregates) on Thursday 5th July at Boston Golf Club. Please note that all players, with the exception of Boston Golf Club members, will be required to produce a valid club or society handicap certificate on the day when the team register. Anyone unable to do so will play off scratch - no exceptions will be made.

Golfers are respectfully reminded that they must confer with all aspects of the dress code at Boston Golf Club. Use of mobile phones is only permissible in the changing room area. Jacket, collar and tie are mandatory for the presentation, which is scheduled for 9.15 prompt.

22 June Paul Bastock's testimonial auction will take place next Friday (June 29) in the Boston United Social Club. The event, which starts at 8pm, will also see United officials including Steve Evans and hopefully Alan Lewer and Kevan Mugleston hosting a Fans' Forum. The last Bazza 200 Club draw will also be made during the night, when more than £450 in prize money will be handed out. A raffle will also be held in aid of Boston's Number One.

Several items will be up for grabs in Bazza's auction. Details are listed below:

• Authentic Sol Campbell signed Tottenham Hotspur shirt
• England team signed shirt (from recent international versus France)
• West Ham United pennant
• Sheffield United signed shirt
• Sheffield Wednesday signed football
• Nottingham Forest signed football
• Everton signed shirt
• Bristol City signed shirt - Tom Doherty (number 8)
• Tim Flowers signed goalkeeping gloves
• Plymouth Argyle signed football
• Tottenham Hotspur signed football
• Tottenham Hotspur signed shirt
• Rushden & Diamonds signed football
• Glasgow Celtic signed football
• Bolton Wanderers signed shirt (including David Norris)
• Bradford City book - "Pathway To The Premiership"
• Soccer AM signed photograph (Tim Lovejoy and Helen Chamberlain)
• Soccer AM signed T-shirt

Hopefully any interested parties will attend on the night to bid for what are genuinely coveted items of memorabilia in this auction.

Note: The previously advertised Leeds United signed shirt has been auctioned at an earlier function.

20 June Season ticket holders can purchase tickets for the Liverpool match from the Boston United Club Office between 8.30am and 12 noon on Friday 22nd June. If season ticket holders cannot make these times then they can telephone an order to the office (01205 364406), but their tickets must be collected from the Club Office by 7:30pm on Friday. For non-season ticket holders, tickets go on sale from 12 noon on Friday. See the Information Page for details of the Club Office opening times.

Ticket Prices

• Seating - £12.50 - no concessions
• Terracing - £10.00 (adults), £7.50 (concessions)

19 June A pre-season friendly has been arranged with last season's treble winner's Liverpool. The match against a Liverpool XI will take place on Monday 6th August, kick off at 7:45pm, with Liverpool promising to bring along a very strong squad. Tickets will go on sale on Friday (22nd June). The club would like to thank Tony Lennon of Paragon Labels for sponsoring the match.

18 June Earlier this evening the draw for week 667 of the Alphabet Forecast was made by David Hirst, the former striker for Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton. The previous evening David had been on Sky Television playing for Sheffield Wednesday in the Yorkshire Masters.

15 June At a General Meeting of the Nationwide Conference yesterday it was decided that for next season end of season play-off matches will decide the which club is promoted to the Nationwide League. After the champions, the next four clubs with Category A grounds will enter the play-offs. The second club will play the fifth club and the third club will play the fourth club on a home and away basis. The winners of these matches will then meet in a one-off match, with the winners proceeding to a match with the champions at a venue to be decided by the champions. The winners of the final match will then be promoted to the Nationwide League. The Conference still has the objective of having two clubs promoted to the Nationwide League.

To accommodate the above matches the Conference's league fixtures will end on Saturday 27 April 2002, with the play-off matches following on dates to be decided.

The issue of clubs being promoted from the feeder leagues was also discussed, from next season for a club to be promoted to the Nationwide Conference it must be the champions of its league and its facilities must meet the required criteria.

13 June The Boston United Am Am Invitational Golf Tournament at Boston Golf Club on Thursday 5 July will be sponsored by Lafarge Aggregates.

Boston United were accepted into the Sygnus Central Conference for next season at the Annual General Meeting on Monday, also at the meeting Redditch United were not accepted.

Boston United have signed winger Mark Angel and experienced central defender Mark Monington.

Mark Angel was born in Newcastle on 23 August 1975; he is 5ft 8in tall. Mark spent last season with Queen of the South, his other career details are:

Mark Monington was born in Bilsthorpe on 21 October 1970, he is 6ft 1in tall. Mark's career details are:

The Target has reported the following items:

1. Peter Jellett has joined Gainsborough Trinity because he is unable to remain with Boston United on a full-time basis.
2. Lee Howarth is in talks with Nuneaton Borough, Stevenage Borough and King's Lynn.
3. Richard Lucas is in talks with Hednesford Town.

8 June Goalkeeper Nick Conroy has signed a two-year contract with Boston United; he is to leave his present position with Hotpoint in Peterborough to be full-time with Boston United.

This coming season Boston United are introducing a mail order programme service through the club shop. The idea of this scheme is to guarantee all exiled ' Pilgrims' a match programme from home and / or away matches. The details are currently being finalised, but the names of everyone who is interested are needed. Therefore, if you wish to take advantage of this scheme send an e-mail to Becky Thompson at BECKYANNTHOM@aol.com, and she will be in touch with you in due course.

BBC Radio Lincolnshire will have an interview with Mike Marsh at 6.20pm tonight and tomorrow they will have news and reaction from the Football League's Annual General Meeting regarding the number of clubs to be promoted and relegated between the Nationwide League and the Nationwide Conference.

7 June Jason Minett has left Boston United by mutual consent and has joined Dr Martens Premier Division club King's Lynn; Jason is now back in full training after breaking his leg in the FA Trophy match against Tamworth earlier this year.

On Monday (11 June) representatives from Boston United will attend a meeting at Worcester City's ground to make an application to join the Central Conference for reserve teams. If the application is successful Boston United will join the league, which is also expected to include Burton Albion, Hednesford Town, Hereford United, Kidderminster Harriers, Nuneaton Borough, Redditch United, Tamworth, Telford United and Worcester City.

The Standard has reported that Jez Murphy of Telford is a transfer target of Boston United and Paul Fewings is in talks with Dagenham & Redbridge and Woking.

6 June Boston United have signed midfielder Mike Marsh from Southport for £15,000. Mike was born in Liverpool on 21 July 1969; he is 5ft 8in tall. Mike Marsh's career details are:

The signing of Mark Freeman is confirmed.

The Nationwide Conference has issued the following statement as part of the campaign for increased promotion and relegation opportunities with the Nationwide League.

The Football Conference was formed in 1979 by the Football League to streamline progression of clubs from the pyramid into the League. It is, therefore, already 'part of the Football League family'. In 1986 automatic promotion for the Conference's champion club was introduced. Now, 15 years later, the next move is long overdue. The existing system doesn't work - it is time to open the door wider.

Fifteen years on from the award of one promotion place the time is now right for change. The Nationwide Conference is no longer the poor relation with:

• Mostly League approved grounds.
• All clubs with full time administration.
• Around half clubs with full time playing staff.
• All clubs are well run and financially stable.

The Conference is already part of the close football family.

The incentive for semi-professional teams to make it into the big time is as great as it was back in 1986, the drama is no less gripping. Yet when you look at the structure of the Football League, is there any other division where only one team goes up? The present system simply doesn't work. In the last four years each of the relegated clubs - Doncaster Rovers, Hereford United, Chester City and Scarborough - have been unable to get back into the Football League. The well documented success of Conference clubs in the FA Cup every season and the growing profile of the Nationwide Conference provides every argument for making it into the new 'Fourth Division'. With more teams promoted into the Football League, it will have a spiral effect throughout the Pyramid System of Non-League football. The goal will be greater, the standards will grow and football itself will be the overall winner. Football as an open competitive sport will become reality with opportunities for growth from grass roots right up to the Premiership.

When teams lose their Football League status, they face the prospect of serious financial hardship. The safety parachute of Football League funds lasts for only one-year, then they are on their own. The need to increase the parachute payments is a must - in the same way as those clubs leaving the Premiership enjoy two years of support when joining the Football League. In the absence of any contribution from the League, the Conference is working hard to locate funds to improve the payments made to the relegated clubs, in order that they may stabilise their financial position over a longer period. This coupled with an increase in the number of teams promoted to two would give clubs a greater chance of reclaiming financial stability and provide a better opportunity to regroup and return to the League. Both Nationwide Conference clubs and League teams will benefit from this policy.

• Additional promotional places provide a better opportunity for relegated League clubs to make a speedier return to the Football League.
• Increasing the one year 'parachute payment' made to relegated clubs to two years provides improved chances of financial stability to relegated League clubs.
• There is a bottleneck in the Conference restricting progression and denying well supported teams the chance of improvement, which is against the principles of free competition.

• Condemn yet another Football League club to just one year of parachute payments.
• Restrict clubs from returning to the Football League.
• Deny good, well supported clubs the chance of competing at a higher level.

5 June Gainsborough Trinity's website has reported that Joby Gowshall has signed for them.

Boston United have announced the following marketing initiatives for the 2001/2002 Season. Kevan Muggleston, Chief Executive, launched the initiatives by saying: "The 2001/2002 Season will be the first for Boston United as a Full Time Football Club. Exciting times are ahead and we want you aboard. There is no doubt Conference Football is increasing in profile. With dedicated television programmes now showing both live matches and regular highlights and dedicated publications increasing in circulation, Conference Football is rightly earning the reputation as being the true spirit of the National game. There has, therefore, never been a better time to advertise at York Street. Don't miss the boat. Join us as we sail into new waters."

An opportunity for business's to be one of five major Corporate Sponsors, subject to individual business discussions. Benefits include:

• Two Stanton's Stand Season Tickets.
• Two Vice President's Lounge Membership.
• Two Matchday Programmes.
• One Car Park Pass.
• Tea/Coffee Refreshments.
• Season long mention in Matchday Programme.
• Tannoy advertising.
• Display on Sponsors Board.

• Four seats in the Directors area.
• Four Vice Presidents Lounge Passes.
• Four Matchday Programmes.
• Selection of the Man of the Match.
• Gift.
• One Car Park Pass.
• Tea/Coffee Refreshments.
• Mention in Matchday Programme.
• Tannoy advertising.
• Display on Sponsors Board.

Last season more than 44,000 people watched matches at York Street and this form of advertising works very well being constantly in view during the game. With over 100 positions around the stadium and increasing television and press coverage it is a great opportunity for an organisation or company to publicise its message. The cost is a minimum of £250, but dependant upon the size and location.

Cost £75 plus VAT, benefits include:

• Two seats in the Directors Area.
• Two Vice President Lounge Passes.
• One Car Park Pass.
• Tea/Coffee Refreshments.
• Mention in Matchday Programme.
• Tannoy Advertising.
• Display on Sponsors Board.

Relax before the match, at half time and at the end of the match in the comfortable and very pleasant surroundings of the Vice Presidents Lounge. The cost is £125 plus £5 per guest on matchdays. The benefits include:

• Matchday Programmes
• Car Park Pass.
• Tea/Coffee Refreshments.
• Sky Television.

All the names will be put into a draw and the selected name will be advertised on a board in the centre circle for all home Conference matches. The cost is £150 plus VAT and the benefits to the selected name include:

• Two Season Tickets.
• Very high profile advertising visible to all parts of the stadium.
• Season long advertisement in the Matchday Programme.
• Display on the Sponsors Board.

Benefits to non-selected names include:

• Season long mention in the Matchday Programme.
• Display on the Sponsors Board.

With a circulation of 40,000 across the season an advertisement is one of the most popular and affordable ways of publicising your message. Rates are competitively priced.

The cost is £80 plus VAT and the benefits include:

• Mention in Matchday Programme.
• Use of the player to promote your business.

Over the last two seasons we have scored over 100 goals at York street, great entertainment. Help this entertainment to continue by sponsoring the goals scored. The cost is from as little as 50p per goal, the sponsor chooses how much, and the benefits include a mention in the Matchday Programme.

An opportunity for a young boy or girl to be the guest of the club for the day, lead the team out and receive a signed football. The cost is available from the club office.

Junior League Match Ticket Book (Terracing Only)

This is an opportunity for under fourteen-year-olds to become involved as regular supporters. The cost is £45 and the benefits include:

• Ticket Book with photograph.
• Access through the Season Ticket gates onto the terracing.
• Extensive saving on matchday prices.
• 10% discount on purchases from the Club Shop.

The cost of an advertisement is a minimum of £100 plus VAT depending upon the size and location. Your business details would be available to the entire world for 24 hours every day. The website has been operating since 1995 and is one of the longest running Non-League websites, it is increasing in popularity with over 125,000 visits in the 2000/2001 season. As the profile of the club increases and more people go online this figure is sure to increase.

A wide variety of merchandising, including replica kits and leisurewear, is available from the Club Office during normal opening hours, and from the Club Shop in the York Street Stand on home matchdays.

The Boardroom, Vice Presidents Lounge and Social Club are available for hire on non-matchdays.

The best weekly bet in South Lincolnshire. For a stake of as little as 10p you could win around £900. New agents and members are required in all areas. The club runs a weekly collecting service and retained letters service.

We are proud to be associated with the Playing for Success Scheme, and are presently the only Nationwide Conference club to be involved with the scheme. The Boston United Football Club Study Support Centre, through its programme of study, aims to assist local schools in raising achievement by motivating pupils to become more effective learners through activities that improve the core skills of numeracy, literacy and IT. This is an excellent opportunity for a business to help develop the local environment for young people.

The Boston United Invitational 2001 Golf Day is being held at Boston Golf Club, Cowbridge, Boston on Thursday 5 July; business's are invited to join in the day or sponsor a hole.

For more information on any of the above items contact the club office on 01205 364406.

4 June Cheltenham Town's website has reported that Boston United have signed central defender Mark Freeman from them for £15,000. Mark was born in Walsall on 27 January 1970; he is 6ft 2in tall. Mark joined Cheltenham Town from Gloucester City for £7,500 on 1 August 1996, prior to that he made almost 200 appearances for Hednesford Town. During his time with Cheltenham Town Mark has made 83 appearances and scored two goals.

At the Annual General Meeting of the Nationwide Conference, held at the Moat House Hotel in Chester on Saturday, the following issues were confirmed: Kettering Town and Hednesford Town have been relegated to the Dr Martens League, Kingstonian have been relegated to the Rymans League, Rushden & Diamonds have been promoted to the Nationwide League, Barnet have been relegated from the Nationwide League, Margate have been promoted from the Dr Martens League, Farmborough Town have been promoted from the Rymans League and Stalybridge Celtic have been promoted from the Unibond League. There will not be a League Cup competition for Conference clubs next season. The Conference is making every effort to achieve two clubs promoted and relegated with Nationwide League. The fixtures for next season will be published next month.

31 May The Annual General Meeting of the Nationwide Conference takes place in Chester on Saturday commencing at 11.00am, it will be preceded by a Chairman's Meeting at 10.00am.

17 May The draw for the first round of the Lincolnshire Senior Cup for the 2001/2002 season has produced he following fixtures:

Lincoln City v Lincoln United

Grimsby Town v Stamford AFC

Gainsborough Trinity v Grantham Town

Scunthorpe United v Boston United

The Boston Standard has reported that Nick Conroy has re-signed for Boston United

14 May Due to continued family problems, Trevor Quow has decided that he can no longer devote the time and attention required to properly fulfil his role at the club, he has therefore tendered his resignation to take immediate effect. The club has reluctantly accepted his resignation.

Trevor has expressed his thanks to Manager, Steve Evans, and everyone at the club for the support they have given during what has been a very difficult time for him.

The club would like to express their thanks to Trevor for all the hard work he has undertaken on behalf of the club, the supporters, and the community in general and our own best wishes go to Trevor and his family.

As a result of this Manager, Steve Evans has moved quickly to appoint Mr Alan Lewer (former Assistant Manager at Doncaster Rovers and Manager at Telford United) as his new assistant, further details will be provided in due course.

Joby Gowshall has decided he doesn't wish to pursue a full-time career in football.

11 May Paul Bastock and Ken Charlery have been called into the England Semi-Professional to play the Highland League at Inverness next Tuesday 15 May. The squad will travel to Scotland after the FA Trophy Final on Sunday.

The following pre-season friendlies have been arranged:

Saturday 21 July King's Lynn away.

Wednesday 25 July Manchester United home.

Saturday 28 July Peterborough United home.

Monday 30 July Cambridge United home.

Wednesday 1 August Bolton Wanderers home.

Saturday 4 August Northampton Town home.

Wednesday 8 August Worcester City away.

Saturday 11 August Halesowen Town away.

The following away fixtures have been arranged for the Reserves:

Saturday 21 July Ilkeston Town.

Monday 23 July Stamford AFC.

Saturday 28 July Lincoln United.

Tuesday 31 July Wisbech Town.

Saturday 4 August Harlow Town.

Wednesday 8 August Bedford Town.