Evicted Vickers set to close in May

VCD Athletic say they’ve got no choice but to fold after attempts to negotiate a lease with their new landlord was stonewalled.

The Isthmian South East side, whose relegation is already confirmed, say the shutters will come down on their proud 110-year history when they are evicted on May 16.

New stadium owners Oakwood Pavillion Ltd outbid the club to take over the site and served an eviction notice in February. The Vickers, promoted back to Step 4 last season, have been at Oakwood since 1916 when it was the sports ground of local armoury company Roneo Vickers.

But now their proud name – which stands for Vickers Crayford Dartford – looks set to slip from the football map.

Chairman Gary Rump said: “It is with profound sadness and the heaviest of hearts that VCD Athletic Football Club announces that, as of 17th May 2026, the club will cease operations.

“This decision has not been made lightly. Following the change in ownership of our ground, we have not been offered a new lease to remain at our historic home on Old Road.

“Despite sustained and genuine efforts by the club to engage in meaningful discussions and to find a way forward, regrettably, opportunities to enter into negotiations have not materialised.

“VCD Athletic has proudly been part of the Old Road community since 1916. For over a century, the club has been more than just a football team – it has been a cornerstone of local identity, bringing together players, supporters, volunteers, and generations of families who have shared in its history, spirit, and achievements.

“To reach this point, where we must accept that the continuation of the club is no longer viable, is deeply painful.

“However, in the absence of a lease and with no alternative resolution available, we are left with no option but to acknowledge that this outcome is now inevitable.”

Daniel Francis, MP for Bexleyheath & Crayford, posted on X he too has been knocked back in trying to broker talks but has vowed to continue pressing for a meeting.