Lincoln United appoint new board

Lee Griffin, who oversaw the link-up and founded Hykeham back in 2014, has been appointed chairman and will undertake financial director responsibilities.

Barry Clements continues as the Club's Vice Chair, providing much needed continuity and historical insight of The Whites.

Outgoing club chairman Ian Beaumont said: “As previously announced, Lincoln United have joined up with Hykeham Town, which in my opinion has and will guarantee a great future for The Whites. The amalgamation has formed a fantastic Board of Directors with a mix of Hykeham Town FC Directors and the existing Lincoln United Board.

“There is much work to do integrating the two clubs, but I am confident we are again on the right track. I have made the difficult decision after nearly ten years to step down from my duties at the club and pass the Chair’s duties over to Lee Griffin, who I know will work as hard as we have tried to do, ensuring not only the clubs survival but substantially moving forward Lincoln United FC forward.

“I can honestly say during my time at Lincoln United, I have made so many fantastic friends and had some great times along the way; culminating in 2016 when, against all odds, we made it to the playoffs. Furthermore, the following season in my first stint as Club Chair, we had several great cup runs, picking up some well earned prize money along the way, whilst also winning the Lincs Senior Cup for the first time. I have had very special times shared with very special and hard-working people, including our amazing sponsors who have stuck with us through thick and thin.

“I know football is the last thing on people’s mind at the minute, so I hope everyone is staying safe and keeping well. Hopefully we can all get through this and get back to our lives soon.

“I wish Lee, the new board and everyone involved at Lincoln United all the very best. I will of course be watching most Saturdays (home and away) as a supporter. Good luck guys!"

Mark Hodds takes over as club secretary from Andy Laver, who steps down after many years of service, while Chris Funnell is the newly appointed Director of Football.

Also on board are Laura McWilliams (Marketing Director) and Glen Merryweather (Commercial Director).

New chairman Griffin said: "Making the decision to lose the Hykeham Town FC badge and brand, after 6 incredible seasons was very difficult, especially as the founder of the club. However, the decision to amalgamate with a club that has a rich history and the facilities to become a true community club, was absolutely the right decision.

“Whilst this pandemic represents a difficult time in history, the lockdown has presented an opportunity for the new board to get a lot of the transitional work done behind the scenes. We are now entering a transformational period in the club’s history, with a renewed focus on getting it right off the field, as well as on it. To do this, we will balance the playing budget with much needed stadia investments, that will ensure the sustainability of the club and unlock the capability to progress on the pitch.

“I would like to sincerely thank all of the HTFC Family for everything they did to make the club a huge success, many of you are making the move across to The Whites, which is very pleasing. I’d like to thank Ian, Barry and Andy for believing in us and making the brave decision to amalgamate the clubs. I’d also like to thank a few influential people for their contribution in making this happen.”