Fast-forward a few years and, like all Non-League clubs, they’ve had to deal with two ruined seasons due to the covid pandemic – as well as play-off final heartache on penalties.
But this season they’re in the promotion mix again under manager Keith Rowland while, off the pitch, they’ve launched Project 3G to raise £1million for a new artificial surface that’s booked in to be laid from May 7 next year.
No wonder Dickinson describes it as a labour of love.
“My son played for Brentwood Town youth and he was on the fringe of the first team before I took over,” Dickinson says. “The chairman at the time stood down after 20-odd years. When it came up, my gut told me there was a good opportunity here. I’m sure if I did all my due diligence, checked everything and looked at what the possible hassle could be, I would never do it!
“It’s a labour of love but, for me, it’s about a pathway through for the young kids, the academy, and into the first team and there should be a one club mentality.
“It’s easy to say it and use those words. To actually formulate that, and maintain it, is a tougher job. But that’s the key.
This story is from the December 10, 2023 edition of The Non-League Football Paper.
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This story is from the December 10, 2023 edition of The Non-League Football Paper.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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