ANGELO Harrop has been offered a new contract by Braintree Town after leading the club to the National League.

Harrop has excelled as manager of the Iron, who are now preparing for life in English football's fifth tier following their promotion from National League South.

Harrop's efforts have been rewarded in the shape of a new deal and the Braintree boss has also been given support in his desire to see the club move to full-time training.

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Harrop met with Braintree chairman Lee Harding at the Rare Breed Meat Co Stadium to discuss next season, with a 'positive discussion' taking place.

Mr Harding told the club's website: "With the important support of our sponsors, we are able to reward Angelo with the job security he deserves and to support his suggestion about switching to full time training.

"All of us at the club realise the challenge that faces us next season, but we do have years of experience at that level and we were, of course, within touching distance of promotion to the Football League as recently as 2016."

Braintree and Witham Times: Angelo Harrop

Braintree have revealed that their shirt and stadium sponsors The Rare Breed Meat Co. have agreed to extend their sponsorship of Braintree for next season.

Mr Harding said: "The support from George and Howard at The Rare Breed Meat Co. really helped the club last season and will be even more important as we take the step up to the National League and full-time football. It's a real shot in the arm for the club."

Braintree will be increasing their matchday and season-ticket prices next season, to give the squad the resources needed to be competitive at the higher level.

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Mr Harding added: "We do realise how tough it is for so many of our community at this time, that's why we have kept our admission prices unchanged for six years, despite inflation.

"But we want to help Angelo build a squad that can be competitive and I do believe that we will once again be one of the best priced at our level, with season tickets offering even better deals!

"We will also be putting a budget in place to improve facilities at the ground while we continue to negotiate with Braintree Council about relocating to a new stadium to match the club's long term ambitions.

"Finally, on behalf of the club, thank you to all our supporters and sponsors for backing the lads through a remarkable 2023/24 campaign and we invite you all to join us on the journey again next season.

"Enjoy your summer and see you all in July!"