Jeff Aiken stands down as Chairman

At the Club Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday past, Club Chairman Jeff Aiken did not seek re-election for the position of Club Chairman, which he commented was a decision that he took "with a heavy heart".

Jeff took on the position 3 years ago, following in the footsteps of his late father Billy Aiken, and showed immense dedication to the role in consideration of the fact that he lived 85 miles from Ferney Park.

At the AGM Jeff told the members present that holding the position was an honour and a privilege for him and that he will look back on the last 3 years with very fond memories and having made many great friends.

Jeff helped to drive many of our fundraising events such as various corporate lunches, nights with Liam Beckett, David Jeffrey and Paula McIntyre, fire walks, our very first club calendar, and encouraged the reformation of our ladies committee. He also represented the club on various NIFL and IFA committees.

In addition, he also overseen the successful appointment of a new manager in Gavin Dykes after the exit of Whitey Anderson, amidst the chaos of the promotion/relegation fiasco of last season.

Addressing club members Jeff commented, "I want to thank everyone who has supported me in my role as Chairman, and at the fundraising events which we organised. I wish Ballinamallard continued success and would encourage you all to continue the sterling work that you all do to push this club onto greater things. We are a Senior Irish League club entering our sixth season in the Premier League and the administration and work that is required to keep this club afloat is immense, so I would encourage all existing and potential members to not leave the work to a small few, but to assist wherever possible".

Ballinamallard United FC would like to thank Jeff for his dedication to the role over the past 3 seasons, and for his continued support.