GRAYS Athletic has announced Mitch Baldock has been appointed as the club's new Business Development Director.

Mr Baldock will support and advise the club's main Board of Directors in an advisory capacity, contributing to strategic decision-making and business development initiatives.

Many supporters will be familiar with Mr Baldock who is part of Manager Darren Manning's coaching team as the club's strength and conditioning lead.

A successful local businessman, and Grays Athletic supporter, he has been brought in by the club to support the club's business growth in the lead up to taking ownership of Thurrock's former Ship Lane ground and to provide strategic oversight on how to grow the club financially and identify new development opportunities that will take the club into a new era.

He will head up a Ship Lane business sub-group alongside Stadium Development Director Steve Skinner, club development director Rob Seaman, Commercial Director Steve Stuart and Finance Director Glyn Jarvis and will specifically look to utilise the club's new home for community and commercial benefits.

Club Chairman Lee Vehit said: "I'm extremely pleased with this appointment as we are bringing in a new and dynamic skillset to help advise the Board. Mitch understands our local community and has a thriving business at the heart of it in Unity Fitness and Mitch already has some exciting ideas and contacts that I'm sure will be of a huge benefit to the club and the people of Thurrock."

Mr Baldock added: "I'm honoured to take on this role and help shape the next chapter of Grays Athletic. It's a club I grew up watching, so to now be part of its future is something I'm incredibly proud of. With the exciting move to Ship Lane, there's a real opportunity to build something sustainable both on and off the pitch.

"My focus will be on driving business growth, strengthening community partnerships, supporting athletic and youth development, and bringing the community together through sport. Together, we can build a club that truly represents the heart of Thurrock and inspires the next generation."