The National League is currently experiencing a drastic financial crisis, with danger of the season ending prematurely if adequate funding cannot be put in place to cover its 66 member clubs for the next five months.
The three divisions kicked off in October after securing a £10m grant from the government for the opening three months of the 20/21 campaign, however with this funding now expiring, £11m has been made available for clubs to claim as loans, with grants only being approved in exceptional circumstances.
After being told by National League interim general manager Mark Ives on Wednesday that loans were the only source of government funding available, Gloucester City released a club statement with the views of Co-Chairman Alex Petherham on the matter.
Petheram explained that concern arose over the initial grant back in October but club’s believed more grants would follow.
“Ever since the first money was issued – which we are thankful for – concern was raised over it only being for three months, but importantly it was a grant with the following three months seemingly already agreed.
“Now to find out that the money was never actually all a grant is a shock.
“In truth it’s staggering, not just a shock!”, said Petheram via the Gloucester City Club Statement.
National League clubs, especially in the North and South divisions would be unable to to take on debts that could potentially increase into six figure sums, with the majority of clubs favouring a reduced season if grants were not possible.
Petheram stated Gloucester City reduced their wage bill in December in order to reduce the club’s financial risks, believing the season will continue.
“When we heard nothing in December, concern entered our mind and we’ve reduced our wage bill to reduce our risks and exposure accordingly.
“For me the season must be played to conclusion!
“I accept clubs should not be forced into debt, as that’s very wrong given the initial promises.
“But to suspend the season or worst is just not an option!”
Interim general manager Ives, who replaced former CEO Michael Tattersall in December is set to collect the National League’s 66 clubs individual views on the financial situation before presenting them to the league’s board on Friday.
Unless the National League takes on the burden of debt then unfortunately it looks like the 20/21 league campaign will likely grind to a halt and be cut short.
