Statement from Club Chairman, Paul Bowden-Brown

You will recall that I previously had to issue a formal statement to the Club, its supporters, and the public regarding specific, unsupported, and potentially libellous allegations made about me and the Football Club by Staplehurst Parish Councillor and MBC Councillor, Mr Paddy Riordan, through a Facebook post.

Following my Code of Conduct Complaint, the Staplehurst Parish Council accepted that Councillor Riordan had acted incorrectly and requested that he take note of the details and requirements set out in my complaint. He was originally given 14 days to do so. During this period, members of the Parish Council voted 7–6 in favour of taking further action to compel his compliance.

I can now confirm that I have received a personal written apology from Councillor Riordan, in addition to his public apology issued on social media (via the Staplehurst Helping Page). These actions fully satisfy the requirements set out in the Monitoring Officer’s ruling.

I am pleased that this brings the matter to a close, and that the good name of Staplehurst Monarchs Football Club has been fully protected and vindicated. We can now move forward with our focus firmly on the continued growth and development of this fine old Club.

Finally, a reminder that the Monarchs face Rochester at home on Saturday 15th November, and we hope you will join us to cheer on our community club.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Up The Hurst.