Skelmersdale United fear for their future after lease refusal

SKELMERSDALE UNITED have warned their future is up in the air after claiming they have been refused a new lease at their URETEK Stadium home.

Skem were officially relegated from the Evo-Stik NPL Premier on Saturday after the heavy 6-0 defeat to play-off chasing Buxton.

That result followed the 10-1 hammering at the hands of Ashton United last Tuesday in what has been a miserable campaign for the West Lancashire outfit.

And the club have been dealt with some more bad news, revealing on Monday that they could face extinction at the end of the season.

Skem say the owners of their stadium, Chequer Properties, have refused to grant a new or extended lease to allow them to continue playing there.

While the club have confirmed they will complete the current season, their long-term future is in serious doubt after 135-years of history.

Chairman Paul 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 the 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.”