GRAVESEND and Northfleet chairman Brian Kilcullen insisted the club remain focused on relocation despite negotiating a further, rent-free, 20-year lease on Stonebridge Road.

Nine months of negotiations with landlords Land Securities plc have concluded with the announcement of the extension to the lease that was due to expire in 2011.

The decision will enable the Fleet to secure grants essential for safety work.

Mr Kilcullen said: “The new lease gives the club the security it needs and we are most grateful to Land Securities plc for agreeing to the extension.

"I want to assure our supporters that the main focus is still to move at the earliest opportunity."

* FOR THE FULL STORY AND ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM STONEBRIDGE ROAD SEE THIS WEEK'S GRAVESEND MESSENGER.