HISTORY

After a boom time for the club's fortunes during the mid-2000s, Grays Athletic found themselves in the Ryam League at the end of the decade after an epic journey that shuddered to a halt; one that had delivered two FA Trophy wins and a Conference playoff appearance.

Chester City's demise in 2009/10 meant that the Essex club were technically bottom of the Blue Square Premier. Grays Athletic accepted voluntary relegation from the Blue Square South upon leaving the national division, and suddenly found themselves without a competition to compete in.

The club found refuge in the Ryman League, while East Thurrock United took them in after the Recreation Ground in Grays saw its last action. The long hard struggle back up the pyramid started in 2010 and maybe there will be a route back.

Boro' and Grays Athletic share a long history, and indeed, a former manager. Mark Stimson led the club's charge up the divisions during the mid-2000s before joining the Hertfordshire club. But the paths were first crossed back in the 1980s, when Boro' were starting their own ascent.

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