Soccer Saturday legend Jeff Stelling’s plea to save Worksop Town from financial ruin… the fourth oldest club in world
SOCCER SATURDAY host Jeff Stelling has thrown his weight behind a campaign to save the fourth oldest football clubs in the world.
Worksop Town FC need to find £30,000 to survive.
Club officials say if the cash isn't raised by the end of the month then the club, which dates back to 1861, could cease to exist.
Three hundred fans, local businesses and sponsors have been asked to donate £100 each as part of an emergency fundraising appeal.
Popular Sky Sports presenter Stelling has also promised to support the appeal and help save the club - known as the Tigers - which is the fourth oldest in the world.
Nottinghamshire side Worksop won their first league title in 46 years last season, setting a new club record of 22 successive wins.
They're currently placed 14th in the Northern Premier League Division One South East, which is the eighth tier of British football.
Sheffield FC, Hallam FC and Cray Wanderers are the three teams older than Worksop.
CLUB AT CRISIS POINT
Worksop Town life president Keith Ilett said the club, which has faced financial woes in the past, has now reached "crisis point".
As a result of the Tigers' situation, Mr Ilett has approached Peter Whitehead, who owns the lease to their Sandy Lane ground, to take over as chairman.
Mr Whitehead has agreed to take the reins provided the club can raise the £30,000 sum by the end of February.
Mr Ilett, who has been involved with the club since 1970, added: "Mr Whitehead is a football man with business acumen who is committed to securing the future of the club, having already committed a substantial amount of money.
"But he insists the £30,000 be raised towards settling outstanding monies owed by the club.
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"He has already invested a huge amount of his own time over the past two months, advising us and helping us with future planning."
Mr Whitehead said a plaque in recognition of the individuals who donate to the club will be placed in the clubhouse should he take over.
Each person would also receive a club membership pass, which would entitle them to certain benefits at the ground.
If you are interested in donating to help save Worksop Town FC, email TreasurerWTFC@gmail.com
