A Cumbrian MP has written to the chief executive of the FA, urging him to scrap the shock decision to move Kendal Town into a different league.
Kendal have been playing in the North West Counties League but have been placed in Northern League Division One for next season, where the majority of clubs are based in the North East.
Mintcakes chairman Michael O’Neill fears the move could kill the club.
Kendal Town have lodged an appeal to the FA and have said the decision was made without consultation.
The club are keen to remain in the North West Counties Premier Division, where the majority of their opponents are based in Lancashire and Greater Manchester.
The move will mean much longer round trips for fans and likely less revenue for the club with fewer away fans likely to make the lengthy journey to Kendal.
Now, Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron has written to FA CEO Mark Bullingham.
In his letter to Mr Bullingham, Mr Farron said: “The decision to move Kendal Town FC to the Northern League shows zero understanding of the geography of Cumbria, the heritage and status of the club, and will be hugely damaging.
“I am extremely concerned that this move puts the future of the club at great risk by putting the club under extreme financial pressure while also moving it outside of its regional network.
“Additionally, the decision to move Kendal Town was made with no notice at all and with just one working day to notify of an intention to appeal. This is unacceptable!
“I demand that this decision be reversed immediately.”
Hear Mr O’Neill’s reaction to the news when it was announced below:
