Barry Town United to stick with Gavin Chesterfield despite relegation

Barry Town United have given their support to Gavin Chesterfield by giving him a new contract despite the clubs’ relegation from the Cymru Premier.

Chesterfield has received a vote of confidence from the board to take the club back to Welsh football’s top tier.

The Linnets were relegated after finishing 11th and have been replaced by Pontypridd Town, who finished second but obtained the Tier One Licence.

The 42-year-old will take charge of his 16th season in charge at the Jenner Park club, having taken over in 2007.

“Firstly, I’d like to thank all at the club for their continued support and belief,” said Chesterfield after his new contract was announced.

“Many might have said it’s the time for me to move on but the new challenge that awaits excites us all and I’m enthused by the project we have here and what lies ahead for this football club. 

“There’s a feeling of freshness, enthusiasm and one of sheer determination around the club and I’m looking forward to driving that forward.”

Club chairman Mark Barrett echoed Chesterfield’s thoughts and explained the reason why decided to persist with their long-serving boss. 

Barrett said: “We are delighted that Gavin has signed a new contract. We were all bitterly disappointed to be relegated from the Cymru Premier but we are not a club to feel sorry for ourselves or a club that makes rash decisions and planning began as soon as the final whistle of the season went.

“Gavin has stuck by this wonderful football club showing immense loyalty which is rare in today’s era and has been instrumental in ensuring we are the club we are today; now it’s our turn to repay that loyalty.”

An update on the backroom staff and players will be provided by the club soon.

First-team coach Kevin Nicholson however has already departed after taking up a role with Premier League club Everton as a coach educator.

(Featured Image: Lewis Mitchell)