On 6th July, 2017 at an Extraordinary General Meeting of Sutton Valence Hockey Club, members rejected the proposal to merge with Marden Hockey Club.
While Sutton Valence’s members noted the attractions of the proposal, after a thorough and informed debate, a 58% majority of voting members decided on balance against the proposed merger. The change would have required a vote of 75% in favour, but achieved only 42% support at the meeting involving 61% of the club’s eligible voting members. Those who voted in favour of merger also articulated their continued commitment to an independent SVHC.

It was noted by the SVHC committee and from comments during the EGM, that this decision was a positive endorsement of the strengths and uniqueness of Sutton Valence’s existing club and future potential.

SVHC Chairman, Lewis Mitchell commented “We have sent our thanks for all the work that had gone into generating the proposal to both clubs’ subcommittees and our best wishes to Marden for their future. We shall remain on very good terms with our neighbouring club and look forward to continuing our long history of collaboration and friendly rivalry.
“Sutton Valence has never been in better shape and we’re delighted to announce that our club sponsor, Ainsworth Civils and Engineering have also committed to extending their support for the longer term.”

SVHC’s 1st XI is newly promoted to Kent & Sussex Regional 1st Division and with exciting prospects within the men’s, ladies’ & junior sections and a continued strong relationship with Sutton Valence School (who also provide SVHC’s pitches and changing facilities), the Queen’s Head pub (SVHC’s “clubhouse”) and the village community as a whole, SVHC is well-placed for the future.

Sutton Valence now look forward to their Club Open Day and BBQ, to be held on 10th September at Sutton Valence Prep School’s pitch and invite players of all ages and abilities to come along and join in the fun.

For further details please visit www.suttonvalencehockey.com or contact the Club Secretary by email to jsworsfold@yahoo.co.uk