Extinction threat after relegation

The 135-year-old football club and Amateur Cup finalists were fearing for their existence on Monday after the owner of their home at the URETEK Stadium refused to grant a new lease or extension to their current deal.

The blow to their hopes of bouncing back next season comes two days after Saturday's 6-0 mauling at home to Buxton at the West Lancashire College Stadium saw Skem relegated from the EVO-STIK NPL's Premier Division.

In a statement on Monday night, officials said there was no threat to the club's immediate future while Skelmersdale United chairman Paul Griffiths vowed to fight tooth and nail for their future.

Skem travel to Halesowen Town on Saturday and a spokesman said: "The lease does not effect the club this season and we shall carry on until the season is out. The club and the social club will continue to function normally."

Griffiths said: “We have been trying for almost two years to reach an agreement to remain in business at our stadium but the owners of the site, Chequer Properties, have refused to grant an official new lease or extension.

"Without this we will be thrown out of the league and the history of this great community club may be lost forever. We would appreciate support and help from anyone to resolve this matter and keep Amateur Cup winners Skelmersdale United alive and well for the West Lancashire community.

"It is unthinkable that one business should decide to close the club down by their unfair actions and unwillingness to grant this lease. This closure would be tragedy for Skelmersdale United, its fans and the wider community.”

Image courtesy of hedgegrower.blogspot.co.uk

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