Football chairman's grand gesture

He is trying to revive the once popular Bexhill derby with the proposition of two show-piece games - one at Easter and one at the end of the season - which he has dubbed "the Battle of Bexhill".

So confident is Harris of a Bexhill victory, the former professional boxer has said he will give 1,000 of his own money to charity if the Sussex Division One side win.

"I'm still waiting to hear from Sidley, but if they decide to join in, I have 1,000 that says we would take them to pieces," he said.

Sidley chairman Dickie Day said: "In theory we would certainly not dismiss it but it needs to be put in writing and it will be considered by our committee."