TONBRIDGE Angels revealed plans this week to make their Longmead home one of the top non-league football grounds in the South East.

The Angels are planning a 250-seat stand which will in time include a function room, all the club’s changing facilities and a bar.

Chairman Paul Dainty explained the plans are “essential” to the future of the club.

He said: “We want a versatile facilty that can be used for different events, so that people can hire out the function room when the stadium’s not being used for football.

“The idea is to attract a wider support. We’re very grateful to the 300-plus fans we get at the moment but we’re looking to build on the fan base.”

Although Longmead is one of the best grounds in the county, Dainty said: “It could be a lot better and if we don’t build the stand we won’t be eligible for promotion.

"And because of the possible reorganisation of the non-league we don’t want to be left behind.”

The scheme is subject to planning permission and the club being able to raise £75,000 through a new lottery scheme.

Agents will be eligible for free tickets, free membership of the weekly draw or 10 per cent commission.

* Tonbridge Angels face a derby clash with Chatham Town in the Doctor Martens Eastern Division tomorrow, kick off 3pm at Maidstone Road.