A NEWRY and Armagh Assemblyman has sent a personal message of support and congratulations to Newry City Football Club, who were relaunched at a special event in the Canal Court Hotel last night (Thursday).
Ulster Unionist Danny Kennedy – himself a keen football fan – made contact with the club ahead of the official proceedings.
“The Irish League needs Newry City to be back in senior football as soon as possible,” he wrote in his message to those gathered. “I was delighted to be able to give the club some assistance and advice and am genuinely pleased to see them re-emerge.
“I am sorry I am not able to join with you in person this evening at the launch of Newry City AFC, but I would like to convey my good wishes and congratulations to you and your colleagues, for all your hard work in getting to this stage.
“I am aware of some of the many challenges you have encountered and overcome and pay tribute to you all for your perseverance.
“All sports lovers, and particularly, all football supporters, will welcome the rebirth of Newry City AFC and wish you well as you strive to revive the fortunes of this great club. I will be pleased, indeed honoured, to assist in any way I can as the new club moves forward into the future.
“With best wishes for this evening and the future.”
Newry’s IFA membership was terminated in September after the club’s registered directors told the governing body that they did not intend to appeal against a High Court winding-up order.
The new club will not inherit any of the old debt from the now defunct Newry City FC Ltd.
It will continue to use the Showgrounds as its home venue as the ground is owned by the club’s season ticket holders.
Club officials have also negotiated a significant rates reduction which will help reduce monthly running costs once the club is up and running.
