League offer free football

The popular Beacon Sunday afternoon league is to make the gesture, to be confirmed at the annual meeting on June 29, for all new and existing clubs, general secretary David Clinton confirmed this week.

New and existing clubs would normally pay an annual subscription of £70 and £50 respectively to join the league, but Clinton said: “Although the start of next season is unsure, we are looking to waive fees for all clubs. It’s our way of assisting clubs in this time of uncertainty.

“We feel we’ve got to be proactive in these uncertain times. It’s the Beacon League’s way of addressing a difficult situation.”

With the Birmingham County FA also having waived their club affiliation and county cup entrance fees for next season, the Beacon League’s offer is a double boost for all local clubs.

Clinton said the league had already received ‘healthly numbers in each of its competitions’from clubs wishing to join for the 2020/21 campaign but, like all grassroots football, they were awaiting guidance on a start date.

“All we can do is ask clubs who are looking to join us next season to get their respective house in order so that when we know (about a start date) they are prepared. We know from talking to clubs that they just want to play. Everything is positive,” said Clinton.

He also confirmed that prior to the new season commencement, the league’s three cup competitions (for 2019/20) would take priority and be completed.

The flagship Lester Charity Cup, Clinton Cup and Chell Cup competitions had all reached the semi-final stages prior to lockdown. These six ties and all three finals will be played before any new term begins.

Any new clubs wishing to join the Beacon Sunday League ranks should contact David Clinton on 07964 730275 for more details.