Medway Messenger Sunday League chairman Alan Barty has described the past year as “traumatic” in his report to be presented at Sunday’s annual meeting.

Reviewing the Rochester & District League’s now-aborted attempts to set up a rival Sunday section, Mr Barty said: “This has been a very traumatic season for us what with the Rochester & District trying to start another Sunday League which caused some concern to our clubs and referees.

“Apart from two clubs, all stayed loyal to the Medway Messenger Sunday League and their loyalty is commendable.

“When you have situations like that, it does very little for grass roots football and I was surprised and disappointed to see certain people backing the proposed new league and I was delighted to see it fall by the wayside.”

General secretary John Wren welcomed the addition of former Sheppey Sunday League general secretary Andrew Bolton to the management committee.

Tony Smith is stepping down as fixture secretary and will be replaced by Martin Andrews.

Seven new clubs will be enrolled at Sunday’s meeting. They are Beausports, who have been placed in Division 4, while their reserves start in the Combination Division along with fellow newcomers Rifleman, Riverview Rangers, Sovereign Sports, Twydall and Walderslade.

Inter-Gills, Oak Athletic, Park Lane and Rainham Eagles have applied to enter reserve teams.

Sunday’s meeting at St Georges, Chatham Maritime starts at 11am.