Groundshare back home is “huge progress” says AFC Rushden & Diamonds chairman Ralph Burditt

AFC RUSHDEN & Diamonds chairman Ralph Burditt says moving to one of the towns the club represents next season is “huge progress”.

Burditt was pleased a high turnout that saw 94 per cent vote in favour of a move to the United Counties League club’s Hayden Road home.

Burditt was proud with all three options presented to fans – Kempston Rovers and Northampton Sileby Rangers were also on the table – but believes the chance to play in Rushden was a big factor in the decision.

“The Dog & Duck has been a good home for us and we’ve got a lot of good memories playing there,” Burditt told The NLP.

“We’ve enjoyed working on the ground with Wellingborough and bringing it up to a standard both clubs can be proud of because it looks great.

“So sad to leave on one point of view, but from the other it’s a fantastic opportunity to play in one of the towns we represent. That’s huge progress.

“There’s no substitute to being located in the middle of your core fanbase. A lot of the people who voted clearly feel the same way about that. It will stand us in good stead to be near those people and playing in their town.

“Rushden & Higham United have a lot of the same values and ideas about working to improve the game locally. Our club and theirs is not just about the first team.

“Both parties are very committed to improving the standard of facilities and teams for local youngsters and coaches. It’s great to have a partner who thinks the same way.”

The phoenix club, formed in 2011 in the wake of Rushden & Diamonds’ demise, are now in the process of securing a temporary groundshare by March 31 in order to complete the work to bring Hayden Road up to standard.