Kettering Town agree long-term Nene Park contract

Kettering Town have moved to Nene Park after signing a long-term contract with the landlord of the former home of Rushden & Diamonds.

The Poppies chairman Imraan Ladak had already said that the name of the ground would only change when a sponsor could be found.

"It's a magnificent stadium and we're all very happy with it," manager Morell Maison told BBC Radio Northampton.

"It gives the club a solid platform to move forward in the next 25 years."

He added: "It's been a slightly protracted process but it's been done methodically."

Kettering will honour the former Rushden & Diamonds goalkeeper Dale Roberts, who died in December, by naming a stand after him.

"It's a great gesture to a young man that did Rushden & Diamonds proud," Maison said.

"It was a tragic loss and although I haven't personally spoken to his family, I understand they are very appreciative of the gesture."

The Poppies open their Blue Square Bet Premier season at Nene Park against Newport County.

Nene Park was repossessed from Rushden & Diamonds FC in June and the club are currently without a divison and in administration.