Cumbria’s three member clubs of the Northern League have been shocked by the resignation of one of the leading clubs Boro Rangers.
Carlisle City, Kendal Town and Penrith had heard hints of financial problems at the Teesside club but didn’t expect them leaving the league.
They submitted their resignation from the Ebac Northern League with immediate effect.
They had only joined the league in 2022 and gained promotion in their first season to the First Division.
They have been regarded as valued members throughout their time in the competition.
The Middlesbrough-based team, who have made the Northern League Division One play-offs in the last two seasons, had faced a fight for survival as they desperately searched for financial backing and support.
Chairman and secretary Mark Curtis, who had led the team from the Teesside League to the top end of the Northern League in just over a decade, had taken the “difficult” decision to step down.
Curtis will continue in both roles for the 86 Boro Rangers Junior sides, but said a number of factors led to him deciding to step back from the first team.
Club officials said they explored all options as they battled to keep the team afloat but after extensive consideration of the club’s current position, confirmed they had to admit defeat.
A club statement said: “This decision not been taken lightly and follows extensive consideration of the club’s current position.
“While the commitment and dedication shown by our players, coaching staff, volunteers and supporters has never wavered, a combination of factors has made it increasingly difficult to sustain the team at the level required.
“These challenges include limited resources, difficulties in filling key operational and administrative roles, a shortage of matchday volunteers and uncertainty surrounding the infrastructure developments needed to support the club’s future ambitions.
“After exploring all available options, we have reluctantly concluded that continuing the men’s team is no longer feasible at this time.
“The club would like to place on record its sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported the men’s team throughout the journey, including its players past and present, coaching staff, matchday volunteers, sponsors and our loyal supporters.”
Because the resignation cam after the AGM it is too late to replace Boro Rangers in Division One so they will placed at the bottom of the table with 0 points, and other clubs will lose one home game.
We took the opportunity to speak with Kendal Town chairman Michael O’Neill who believes the FA should do more to help grassroots clubs in trouble.
Michael gives his views on Boro Rangers resignation in a lengthy chat with Cumbria Crack’s John Walsh and also covers prospects for his own Kendal side in the season ahead. Hear it below:
