EDDIE Mitchell has reiterated his commitment to Dorchester Town despite being appointed as the new chairman of AFC Bournemouth.

The Poole-based property developer stepped down as chairman of the county town outfit at the end of last week so that he and the Murry Group could complete a takeover of the Cherries.

Mitchell, who now has a 50 per cent share in the League Two club with an option to buy a further one per cent for a mere £1, confirmed that the deal to purchase AFC Bournemouth was officially ratified yesterday.

And he will be joined on the Dean Court board by son-in-law, and former Magpies’ director, Neill Blake as well as Adam Murry, Jeff Mostyn and Steve Sly.

Despite leaving his role at the Jewson Stadium, and placing his majority shareholding in the name of sons Tom and Josh, Mitchell insists he remains committed to the county town cause.

He said: “I’m still committed and I’ve got every intention of remaining committed. I’ll still be coming to watch all the games as well as there’s no one else I’d rather be watching.”

Of his position at the Cherries, Mitchell added: “I’ve got my own ideas and I’m not one for being a passenger, I like to be in control of my own destiny so to speak. I’m pleased it’s finally gone through.”

Dorchester Town Supporters Trust meanwhile, have thanked Mitchell for his efforts at Dorchester and welcomed Dave Roberts as the Magpies’ new chairman.

A statement issued to Echosport reads: “The Dorchester Town Supporters Trust would like to welcome Dave Roberts as chairman and Annie Greenslade as vice-chairman to the board of Dorchester Town Football Club.

“We wish them every success and hope to form a good working relationship for the benefit of the club and the community in the future.

“The Supporters Trust would also like to thank Eddie Mitchell for his time as chairman at the club and to take this opportunity to wish him every success in his new role at AFC Bournemouth.”

* Dorchester Town have arranged two new friendlies.

The Magpies will host both AFC Bournemouth (Friday, July 24) and Torquay United (Friday, July 31).

However, the friendly with Bashley has now been cancelled.

Dorchester's other pre-season dates include home matches with Eastbourne Borough (Saturday, July 18), Bristol City (Wednesday, July 22) and Yeovil Town (Saturday, July 25), as well as a trip to Hamworthy United (Tuesday, July 21).

* Fans have until next Tuesday (June 30) to receive a 10 per cent discount on all season tickets, which include free entry to every home pre-season friendly.