VCD Athletic set to fold after being denied new lease at historic Old Road home

VCD Athletic Football Club announced on Thursday that they will cease operations with effect from 17 May 2026, bringing an end to more than a century of football at their historic Old Road home.

In a statement released last night, the club said the decision comes after the change in ownership of their ground, with no new lease offered to remain at the venue.

Despite what the club described as “sustained and genuine efforts” to enter meaningful discussions, they say negotiations failed to materialise and no alternative resolution was found.

As a result, VCD (short for Vickers, Crayford & Dartford Athletic Football Club) say they have been left with “no option” but to accept the closure of the club, bringing an end to a story that began in 1916, 110 years ago.

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Sadness

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.

Passion

The Vickers had already been relegated from the Isthmian League South East Division, with just 32 points amassed from 40 games so far.

VCD will play Eastbourne Town in their final home fixture on Saturday before their season – and storied history – comes to a close away to Sittingbourne.

Rump added: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported VCD Athletic throughout its long and proud history.

“Your loyalty, dedication, and passion have been the lifeblood of this club.

“As we bring this chapter to a close, we do so with immense pride in what has been built since 1916, and with sincere appreciation for all those who have been part of our journey.

Daniel Francis, Labour MP for Bexleyheath & Crayford, also reacted on X, saying: “I’m devastated to read this.

“In recent weeks, I’ve tried to broker a meeting between both parties. To date, the landlord hasn’t accepted my invite to explore options.

“I’ll continue to press for the meeting in order to save the club and this important part of Crayford’s history.”

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