GRAVESEND & Northfleet chairman Jason Botley has singled out the need for increased attendances as a key factor in the club’s long-term success.

This season the club have exceeded expectations and currently find themselves fourth in the Nationwide Conference table.

Despite being in with a strong chance of achieving a play-off place, Gravesend’s highest home league attendance came against fellow high-flyers Oxford United in November when 2,019 came through the gate.

Mr Botley said: "Competition makes it difficult and we have got to battle against that. It is part of being in a commercial market.

"Charlton are very active and, in that respect, there are things we can learn from them. Dartford have got a new ground and they are going to attract local interest so we can’t rest on our laurels."

In an effort to get more people to attend games at Stonebridge Road, the club is introducing a number of new initiatives including kids for a quid and reduced entrance fees.

* SEE THE GRAVESEND MESSENGER (THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1) FOR THE FULL STORY.