PORTLAND United chairman Matt Lucas has revealed the Blues have a vision to become a community hub on the island.

Lucas was last month appointed as successor to Portland legend and retiring chief Robin Satherley.

Former Dorchester Town supremo Lucas, who led the Magpies’ for five years until 2019, is looking to build on the work undertaken by the Blues’ committee.

Lucas admitted he has been “amazed” by plans drawn up by Portland’s volunteers.

He told Echosport: “First of all, the welcome I’ve received has been immense.

“I’m so excited and buoyed by the vision that the committee already had at Portland.

“In many ways, I’m just looking to add some weight behind that vision and help implement the plans going forward.

“I’m absolutely amazed by the workload that many volunteers do at the club.

“One of the things I’m personally looking to do is build relationships and build on relationships within the local community to become a real hub and to promote the club to the Portland community.

“The reasons why I’ve joined up is because I mirror that vision and stand for the type of vision they have going forward. I want to be part of it.”

He added: “Everyone is very loyal at Portland and everyone is very encouraging.

“I’ve not heard one adverse comment about what Portland United stand for. I was aware of that reputation when I was at Dorchester and it’s a real breath of fresh air.

“I just enjoy being around that environment where everyone works hard for the club.

“Everyone enjoys coming to watch their football on Portland and there’s a real togetherness.

“That is such a great start to continue to build on when you’ve got everybody pulling together as one.”