Chelmsford Council has pledged its support for the town's football club.

Following a crucial meeting on Friday, Michael Mackrory, council leader, said he was pleased to meet Chelmsford City chairman Peter Stroud and his fellow directors.

"We aim to do our utmost to find a way in which Chelmsford City can play again in Chelmsford," he said.

The meeting, following the on-off planning application for a new stadium in Boreham, submitted to the council in July by the football club, looked at how to make sure football could be played in the town again.

The club agreed to consult its advisers about the planning application.

Mr Stroud said: "We have only one aim and that is to have a permanent site again in Chelmsford."

Meanwhile the town's Labour Party has re-emphasised its backing for the club's bid to build a new stadium in the town.

Adrian Longden, Labour councillor and parliamentary spokesperson for West Chelmsford, has called on the council's chief executive for an urgent meeting in early January to explore options available.

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