HOPES for a rebirth of East Thurrock United FC are high after a successful and well-attended public meeting last night (Wednesday, 10 January).

A group of fans of the club, which was folded by its owners early in the current Isthmian League season and the Rookery Hill ground later leased to Romford FC, are determined to bring a local competitive Saturday community team back to play in either Stanford-le-Hope or Corringham.

A committee has been formed which has carried out extensive preparatory work and consultation with the relevant authorities and hopes to have a team playing in the Essex Olympian League next season.

They shared their plans with local residents at a meeting at the Courthouse pub in Stanford and declared the meeting a success.

It was addressed, among others, by the legendary former East Thurrock United manager John Coventry, who pledged to offer his support to the new venture.

A statement from the fans group, which hopes to create a wholly fan-owned club, says: "East Thurrock United meant so much to the local area and we will be keeping its proud history alive by committing to providing a football team for the community run by the community.

"The colours will proudly remain the much-loved amber and black.

"We are committed to making the club transparent, democratic and a sustainable success."

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The group has a website which also includes a detailed plan for the fledgling club including a pathway back to the Isthmian League by 2030.

It can be read and downloaded via this link.