OVERWHELMING support for Mark Kelly has seen him make a U-turn on his decision to step down as chairman of the Yeovil Town Independent Supporters' Association.

Mark announced a couple of weeks ago that he would be standing down as chairman, a post he has held since the YTISA was formed in 1999, at the end of the season.

But Mark said he had been 'touched' by the messages of support from not only members but even Yeovil Town chairman and chief executive John Fry and that he had decided to carry on.

"I initially wanted to step down and let somebody else with fresh ideas to take over which I thought would have been good for the association," he said. "But I have been truly touched by the wonderful support of the group's members and the enthusiastic encouragement of Mr Fry that I've decided to continue in the role."

And he joked: "I didn't realise I was so popular and well-liked!"

Mark made the announcement at a YTISA committee meeting held at Huish Park on Thursday (April 8) night.

YTISA press officer Steve Sowden said Mark's decision had come as a welcome surprise.

"Mark seemed adamant that he would step down at the end of the season," he said. "But I think Mark has been so moved by the support and backing he has received from members and the club itself that he had no alternative other than to carry on.

"I think his decision has been warmly welcomed by the committee and I'm sure will be by the membership as a whole. Mark has been the lifeblood of the YTISA and with him still at the helm the group will continue to go from strength to strength."

Other items on the agenda were the replacement for Tony Elbourn who recently resigned from the committee as secretary due to increased work commitments. It was agreed that YTISA treasurer Stewart Bratherton would take on the secretarial duties until a successor had been found.

It was agreed that new committee members had to be sought and they were open to suggestions from the membership. Anyone who would like to get more involved with the YTISA should phone chairman Mark Kelly on 01935-412236.