Football coach takes ownership of Kettering Town FC

Non-league Kettering Town FC has been bought by a football coach from Watford.

George Akhtar has purchased the Northamptonshire club from previous owner Ritchie Jeune.

He said he was "absolutely delighted" to complete the takeover of the Poppies, who were briefly managed by Paul Gascoigne in 2005.

In a statement, external, the club said an agreement had been reached for Mr Akhtar to purchase all of Mr Jeune's shareholding.

Mr Jeune said it had been "an absolute honour to have played a part in the 152-year history of this fantastic club".

He added: "Finding an owner who will have the long-term good of the club at heart was a key driver for me. After all, handing the baton over to a new custodian is the last part of any owner's legacy.

"The new owners, I am sure, will bring new passion and ideas to the club. They have a drive and desire to achieve but also respect the long, proud history of the club."

Mr Akhtar said he was "absolutely delighted" to be taking over a club "with such great footballing traditions and history".

He said: "I am fully aware of the many challenges that we face.

"I have been involved in football from as far as I can remember and have seen first-hand what it takes to be successful."

Mr Akhtar, also known as Nadim, set up Xtra Time, external, which provides sports-themed after-school and holiday clubs in the Watford area.

The club has had a number of well-known managers over the years.

As well as Gazza, Ron Atkinson had a spell at the helm in the 70s.

The Poppies have also been managed by Graham Carr, father of the comedian Alan Carr.

The club said a fan forum would be organised with the new owner soon.

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