GRAVESEND & Nothfleet FC will stress their determination to forge stronger links within the local community with a high-profile campaign at this weekend’s Grand Slam sports festival in Gravesham.

When he first took the helm, chairman Brian Kilcullen emphasised the need for the football club to become an integral part of the community. Following the club's return to the Nationwide Conference, that need has become greater.

After last week’s appointment of 37-year-old City trader Mark Lindop to the board, Fleet are looking to tempt more local business people to become involved.

The Grand Slam event in Gravesend town centre offers the club a perfect marketing opportunity. Mr Kilcullen said: “This is all part of the club’s efforts to make an impact in the Nationwide Conference. While the club has achieved a lot thanks to the hard work and talent of many people, we believe that to move on to the next level and mount a serious campaign in the Nationwide Conference we need to have closer links with successful business people who have an interest in football.

"Being in the Nationwide Conference brings a much higher profile to the club and the town through national press and television coverage, including more exposure on Sky TV with the possibility of live Sky matches.

“We believe we have the fan base and interest in football in our area to support a top Conference club and thereon a Football League club.

“This can only be helped by the development plans in the area and planned major population growth. We hope we can work with interested parties to bring these ambitions to fruition.”

Fleet commercial director Rob Grindley added: “The Grand Slam Sports Festival offers an excellent opportunity to promote and market the club and get our message across.”

The club will also be looking to increase season ticket sales with 140 sold already and a target of 200 to reach.

Prices for the club's pre-season friendlies have been discounted, apart from the match with Gillingham on August 3. All children under the age of 12 will be admitted free if accompanied by an adult.

Adults terrace tickets for the matches against Brighton, Maidstone and Canvey have been fixed at £7 (£3.50 concessions). Adult stand transfers £1 (50p concessions). Family tickets, one adult and two children £12, two adults and two children £15. Junior Fleet members £1.