FOLKESTONE Invicta chairman, Bob Dix, has moved to strengthen the financial future of the Dr Martens Premier League club.

Mr Dix, together with the club's other board members, has decided to appoint a five strong support board of local businessmen with differing areas of expertise.

The support board will carry out a strategic review of Invicta's revenue opportunities, and seek to introduce further plans to bolster the club's earnings.

This will include a five year business plan, primarily to make sure there is sufficient revenue for an expansion of the club's footballing ambitions.

Mr Dix said yesterday: "Finances have been, and to a certain extent, still are difficult, and I am very grateful to local friends and fans who are continuing to help the board to meet existing club debts."

"But I, as chairman, have also to look to the future, which is why this new support board is going to be a major plus for Folkestone Invicta. By bringing in people with differing backgrounds and new ideas, I very much hope that they act as a real stimulant for increasing revenue streams.

"This provides a golden opportunity for Folkestone Invicta to move forward."

Leading the push by the support board is Dover businessman Roger Knight, who started his own company, RK Graphics 16 years ago, and, as managing director, now employs more than 20 staff. He has been a director of Dover Athletic until recently severing his connection with the club.

Mr Knight said: "I am delighted to be now part of Folkestone Invicta, and am looking forward to helping raise the finance, which the club certainly does need. But I believe that there is great potential at Invicta, and I very much hope to see that come to fruition."

Two other former Dover Athletic directors, Jim Gleeson, and Jim Pellatt, have also agreed to join the support board.

Also on the support board is long-time Folkestone supporter and former board member, Andy Ingleston, who recently has been helping assess the financial situation facing Invicta, and former Fleet Street editor Jonathan Holborow.