Budget boost for top flight return

After guiding his side back into the top flight via the EVO-STIK League Southern Division One South & West play-offs after a six year absence, Rogers has been given the budget he asked for to take into account the extra travelling costs his side are facing.

The Tivvy legend, who returned for his second spell at the helm in 2014 after a previous 20-year stint, told devonlive.com: "What I've asked for, I've more or less got, so I'm really pleased that they backed me again. It's going to be tough because the cost of the travelling is huge at the moment and that will take a big chunk out of our income.

"One thing I've been really pleased with is how the board have handled the season tickets and the admission prices – they're keeping them at the same price. The season tickets are £130 which is fantastic value – when you look at the cost of just coming in and paying on the gate for every game, it's around a £75 or £80 saving, which is well worth it.

"Anyone who's going to support us, that's a good chunk to save, and those that got the early bird one at £110 have had a bargain, to be fair."

Rogers, pictured celebrating on the coach home after his side's play-off final win at Salisbury, is also hoping to see a surge in support at Ladysmead when the 2017-18 season kicks off in August.

He added: "We've got some good games coming up and it's a decent standard. We've done our bit by holding the prices and getting promoted so I'd like to think now that the people of Tiverton and the surrounding areas will see fit to come and support the players and support the club.

"We've done our bit by getting us back up where we should be and hopefully we'll the more we get through the turnstiles, the better team we can get out on the pitch. The board have backed me, obviously, and the supporters need to back the board. I'll certainly put a side out there at the moment that can compete at that level.

"We'll have a better squad next year, for sure, that's without a shadow of a doubt and I'm really looking forward to putting out a side that can compete at that level. I know the standards required and, now the board have backed me, I'll make sure the team is out there doing their bit."

* Tiverton Town kick off their pre-season friendly campaign against Plymouth Argyle on Saturday July 11 with a testimonial for long-serving central defender Tom Gardner. For more information on their warm-up fixtures visit the club's website.

Follow the EVO-STIK League Southern on Twitter at @SouthernLeague1