Whitby Town FC has started a restructure to shape the future of the club following a dramatic end to the season.
By securing a draw against Cleethorpes Town at home last Saturday, on the final day of the season, the Seasiders avoided being relegated which would have been the first time in its 100 year history.
From the final whistle at the Towbar Express, Lee Bullock said change was being implemented.
In a statement issued this week, he said while the objective to stay in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division had been achieved, “the season fell well below the standards expected, both on and off the pitch”.
Bullock said: “It should serve as a significant wake-up call for everyone involved with the club. Improvement is required across the board, and that process began the moment the final whistle blew on Saturday.
“Off the field, the club has already committed to a restructure, which is currently underway. Supporters will play a more active role in helping shape the future of the football club. On the pitch, there is a great deal of work to be done to build a team that the club, its supporters, and the town can be proud of.”
He praised fans for outstanding support, both at home and away games, with attendances being an improvement on the previous season.
Bullock has called for the team to show the same passion and commitment, adding there will be player changes.
He explained: “In the interest of transparency, there will be significant activity over the coming months. There will be changes within the squad, with players departing and new additions arriving.
“We are currently holding honest discussions with all members of the squad regarding their futures, while also identifying and speaking with potential new players ahead of the 2026/27 season.
“All we ask, as a management team, is for your patience. No one wants a repeat of the past season, and we are determined to avoid another relegation battle. Our supporters deserve better, and we fully recognise that.”
Behind the scenes, the club has recently announced the departure of players Sam Collins, Aaron Haswell, Nathan McGinley, Jarrett Rivers and Connor Smith as well as joint manager, Jason Kennedy and physio Ben Slater.
Layton Watts has also announced his intention to leave this summer.
There has also been the appointment of a new secretary in Paul Walker, a vacancy for a commercial manager, and news that the clubhouse bar will be run in-house from summer.
Earlier this month the club launched its Sponsor a Seat scheme as part of its centenary celebrations.
Supporters can have their name – or the name of a loved one – professionally printed on a seat in the main stand and it will be in place for the start of the 2026/27 season.
It costs £100 to have your name etched into the club’s history.
The 119 seats, sponsored by supporters when the main stand was built in 2007, have been accounted for and will be given special name plaques ahead of the 2026/27 season.
