Financial pressures force Willenhall Town FC to leave ground
Willenhall Town FC is to move from its ground of almost 40 years, it was announced today.
The club will relocate from its existing Noose Lane home to a new site in Long Lane, Essington.
The team will play its last match at its current ground on Tuesday before moving, ahead of the 2013-14 season.
Willenhall Town, based at Noose Lane since 1975, has been renting the pitch off landlords Sporting Khalsa for the last few years after being taken over by the fans. The decision has been made because of financial pressures.
The club previously played at Willenhall Memorial Park and is marking its 60th anniversary this year. Chairman Sean Coughlan said: "We have always been under financial pressure since the supporters took over the club. We are looking to get the best deal we can. We have been looking at it for over 12 months.
"There are financial pressures of having to pay rent for a site that was once owned by the club. We need to get 80 fans in, just to cover the costs."
The club plays in the West Midlands Regional League and has faced a series of financial difficulties. The Lockmen went into administration in 2009 as they owed landowners Marston's Brewery around £60,000. The Noose Lane ground was put up for sale and bought by Sporting Khalsa.
Willenhall councillor Ian Shires said it was a 'real pity' the team was having to relocate. "If it means they survive, then good luck," he added.
A statement from the club said: "We wish to emphasise that we were once again kindly offered a lease renewal by our current landlords Sporting Khalsa.
"However, after careful consideration, and naturally much soul searching, the decision to leave Noose Lane became more viable.
"We have made this decision in consultation with the board and with Neil Perks, our manager, and listening to views of our supporters."
