WITHAM MP Priti Patel is to take on a new challenge, potentially adopting the role of chairman of Witham Town Football Club.
Although the nomination is yet to be voted on by the club, it is understood that she is currently acting as chairman-elect, and her appointment is expected to be ratified at an emergency general meeting on Monday, October 27, at the team's home ground, Village Glass Stadium.
Speaking to the Chronicle, manager Gary Kimble said: "She is chairman elect, until she gets voted in properly as chairman.
"There will be a big special meeting at the end of the month, and everyone needs to vote her in. I think it's a great appointment."
Witham Town has not had anyone in the role since July, when former chairman Tony Last died.
However, Ms Patel's office said they could not confirm the appointment, only stating that the MP visited the football club last week and she would be supporting them in her role as MP.
Following the club visit, Ms Patel said: "Witham Town had a great result at the weekend and with this strong win they are climbing up the league table. Their success is good news for Witham and I am pleased to work with them to support their vision for the future."
The 42-year-old MP will become only a handful of women in UK football to hold the position, the most well-known being the former managing director of Birmingham City FC, and current vice-chairman of West Ham, Baroness Karen Brady.
"Witham Town's footballing success is great news for our local area and they should be commended for their outstanding work coaching the next generation of footballers," said Ms Patel.
"Garry Kimble is an outstanding manager and the club has a strong vision for the future. I will work with the football club to help them secure better facilities and a sustainable future so they can build on their success."
Ms Patel has been MP for Witham since 2010, joined the Number 10 Policy Unit in 2013, and in July this year was appointed exchequer secretary to the Treasury.
