JOHN WREN, the secretary of the Medway Messenger Sunday Football League, has vowed to reduce costs for all clubs competing in the competition.

In his first report since succeeding long-serving Colin Boswell, presented at Sunday's annual meeting, Mr Wren admitted being approached by many club secretaries worried by the high cost of competing in the league.

"Something I've heard from many club secretaries is the high cost of competing in this league," he said.

"From the start, one of my main aims was firstly to stem what seemed inevitable spiraling costs. Secondly, was to put in place a control and accounting system and lastly to reduce costs if possible.

"I hope from the accounts to December last year, you will see that accelerating costs have not only been stemmed but that a downward trend can be detected. Our treasurer will agree that all expenses and expenditure are itemised and traceable throughout the system. The good news is that these adjustments will become more noticeable next season."

Treasure Iain Allan reported an excess of income over expenditure of £6,000. This had been achieved by an increase in fines of £3,000 plus the £1,000 sale of a photocopier.

He stressed: "The committee has tried to introduce as many cost-cutting exercises as had been deemed practical. It is hoped that through new equipment and modern technology, further savings can be made."

Mr Allan confessed that it had taken what he described as "draconian" measures to turn the league's finances around into what was now a healthy situation.

He added: "I should like to thank the committee and all members for their patience on this matter. It is on this basis that the fees for the 2004-2005 season have been set."

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