BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent chairman Terry Doherty has admitted being humbled by the “monumental” effort going into ground improvements at North Road.

A team of officials, volunteers and even players have been working hard to make sure it comes up to scratch in time for the next Ryman League division one north ground grading, on March 24.

Improvements already under way include a tunnel area and perimeter fencing all the way round the pitch.

However, there is still more to be done and work parties have been arranged for Saturday morning – prior to the club’s fixture at home to Ware – and all day on Sunday.

Anyone interested in helping out is welcome to come along and lend a hand.

“There are still quite a few jobs to do, from painting to general clearing up after the works,” said Doherty.

“So anyone able or willing to lend a hand, even just for an hour or two, would be made very welcome.

“We appreciate any help anyone can give us because we’re being inspected on March 24.

“We’ve already done a lot and several of us were at the club all day on Sunday and Monday.

“I’d really like to thank all the volunteers for the monumental effort they’ve put in so far, especially (first-team manager) James Webster’s dad.

“It’s been very humbling that people are willing to give up their time for the benefit of not just our current squads but also those in the future.

“It’s a lasting legacy and I can’t thank them enough.”

Doherty confirmed that the biggest job – the pitch perimeter hoarding – is almost complete.

“James’ dad, Manus, has skilfully led a party of volunteers which included quite a few first-team players, including Phil Kelly (the hat-trick hero of Saturday’s 3-2 win at Burnham Ramblers) and James himself,” he said.

“Some of the fans have also been helping over the last two weeks, together with ground and club staff.

“We’re three-quarters of the way to completing the players’ tunnel but still have to erect a medical room, which is the next big job.

“We also have to clad the back of the new stand and finish a few smaller tasks.

“We’ll be working more evenings this week and again on Saturday morning and Sunday.”

For more information, contact Doherty on 07794 545586.