David Stockdale ushers in a new era with the launch of FC Farsley Sports Club

The Stockdale family have confirmed the formation of FC Farsley Sports Club, with Farsley Celtic set to be liquidated.

Former Premier League goalkeeper David Stockdale, who has managed the men’s first team since February, has taken ownership alongside his wife, Katie Stockdale, who will serve as chair of the newly formed club.

Stockdale was unable to stop Farsley finishing bottom of National League North last season, but the scale of the task should not be underestimated, with an ever-changing squad largely made up of young players.

Off the field, matters became even more complicated when the club were initially demoted three divisions after failing to secure a valid licence for National League and Northern Premier League football.

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Delighted

Ultimately, ahead of the current campaign, the men’s first team withdrew from the non-league pyramid altogether, leaving no immediate prospect of assembling a squad or operating from a settled home base.

However, a takeover that has been in the works since the summer has now been completed, involving the purchase of FC 2010 Holdings Ltd and bringing an end to the company that previously operated Farsley Celtic.

Liquidators are expected to be appointed in due course, with the move designed to give football in Farsley the best possible chance of long-term sustainability.

In a joint statement, the Stockdales said they were proud to take control of the club: “At last! We are delighted to formally take the reigns at Farsley.

“The club and its facilities have real potential and we are honoured to be the owners of a club that has been dear to the hearts of people for many generations.”

Fresh start

The Stockdales believe the takeover represents a fresh start for community sport in Farsley.

They added: “With a heavy heart, Farsley Celtic will have to be liquidated to give football in Farsley the best chance of future success.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all volunteers, fans and staff who helped to keep Farsley Celtic going for as long as it has.

“We hope you will all join us in going forward with FC Farsley – We want FC Farsley Sports Club to be the beating heart of both community sports and community activity in Farsley.

“Our vision is to create a leading grassroots sports club that transforms lives through sport, community engagement and social responsibility.

“We want to create a lasting legacy where everyone, regardless of background or ability, feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

“As well as football, we hope to see all kinds of different sports being played here by people of all ages and abilities, alongside wider community activities.

“We’d love to hear people’s suggestions on what sports and community activities they would like to see here.”

Future ambitions

FC Farsley Sports Club already runs women’s and deaf football teams, as well as a development section that caters for more than 300 young players each week.

Work has begun on refurbishing the clubhouse and sports hall, with new entrance gates installed, and the club will now operate as the site’s facilities provider.

Future ambitions include the installation of a 3G pitch, while the Stockdales intend to apply to the league to enter a men’s first team for the 2026–27 season.

Further announcements regarding sponsorship and partnerships are expected in the coming days as the club looks to establish a stable footing and build a sustainable future for football in Farsley.

READ MORE: Farsley Celtic announces withdrawal from Northern Counties East League for 2025-26