Diamonds leave big decision to fans

Supporters have until midnight on Saturday (Feburary 4) to make their votes count in the poll, launched at a forum of fans last Wednesday after the EVO-STIK NPL First Division South club's officials were given notice that they would be evicted from their current Dog & Duck base at the end of this season.

The Diamonds are looking forward to their fans having the final say after offering them a number of options in the confidential vote. In the local media they are being tipped to include the opportunity to play in Rushden by sharing the Hayden Road home of United Counties League Division One side Rushden & Higham United.

The phoenix club have played at Wellingborough Town since 2012 after groundsharing at Raunds Town in 2011 following their formation a year earlier. Other options for a future home are reported to include playing at Sileby Rangers in Northampton or at Kempston Rovers, currently competing in EVO-STIK League Southern League Division One Central.

Officials say the result of the poll will be announced to club members at 9am on Monday 6 February before being made public at midday.

In a statement, the club said: "Members of AFC Rushden & Diamonds are now voting for where they would prefer to see the club playing next season. Since the club were given notice to leave the Dog & Duck at the end of the current playing season, AFC R&D representatives have held, and continue to hold, extensive discussions with a number of clubs in the local area.

"The majority of these discussions have been extremely positive and there are already number of options available as a home for the first team for 2017-18 and beyond. As with all major decisions at AFC Rushden & Diamonds, it will be the members who will make the final decision on where this home will be."

* The Diamonds are also asking their fan base to complete a survey on attendances, matchday experience and volunteering at their Integro League Cup tie with Spalding United on Tuesday night. Before releasing the matchday programme for the third round tie this week, pictured, officials reminded supporters to fill in the survey and help them learn how to attract more volunteers and bigger crowds.

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