Gorleston are heading in the right direction, according to chairman Alan Gordon.

Speaking at last Friday’s annual meeting, Gordon said: “Ricci (Butler) is entering his third term as our manager and I’m very pleased with what he has achieved so far and with his plans going forward.”

The chairman also stated plans for the inevitable ground move, which will be hugely beneficial financially for the club’s future, were at their most advanced since they began. He fully expected the move to be happening within the next 18 months.

Manager Butler was also in a positive mood. He admitted his side rose above expectations last season to finish four in the the Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division and said there would not be wholesale changes to his squad.

Although he was under no illusion about the strength of the new sides entering the Premier Division this season, he expected another strong showing from his ever-improving side.

Ross Langmead, the youth section secretary, was also in buoyant mood after the junior teams gained a variety of trophies and awards for the different sides.

He also said there would be an increase in the number of sides for next season, including two new girls teams, all good news for the long-term future of Gorleston Football Club.

Secretary Colin Bray confirmed that, for the sixth season running, admission prices would remain the same for the 2017-18 campaign.

The Greens are also delighted that LG Perfect have decided to extend their sponsorship for another season and thank Batemans for their continued support.

Meanwhile Gorleston Rangers’ 29th annual youth football tournament in association with Specsavers Great Yarmouth will once again be held at Ormiston Venture Academy, Oriel Avenue, Gorleston NR31 7JJ on Saturday and Sunday July 15 and 16.

With nearly 200 teams already entered, early application is encouraged. Applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. There are currently nearly 49 different clubs represented across the age groups.

For more information contact Chris Dunne on 01493 601256, chris.dunne@homecall.co.uk, visit the website on www.gorlestonrangersfc.org.uk. Details are also available on facebook.com/gorlestonrangersfc or via Twitter (@gorlestonranger).