Other destinations still on the table

3 Apr 2017 By David Watters

Basingstoke Town will continue talks with neighbours Whitchurch United about a long-term groundshare deal in the future after confirming they were moving in with EVO-STIK League Southern and Hampshire rivals Farnborough next season.

The Dragons beat the Football Association's annual March 31 deadline to confirm security of tenure at Cherrywood Road for the 2017-18 season at the end of last week before beating Chesham United 3-2 on Saturday in the EVO-STIK League Southern's top flight.

With their existing base at the Camrose set to be sold off for redevelopment by departing chairman Rafi Razzak to balance their books, officials told fans they are aiming to return to the borough as soon as possible with the Longmeadow ground of the Wessex League's Jam Boys a long term option.

According to the statement released before the weekend's action, Basingstoke also want to continue working with their local authority to find a site for a new home in the town funded with the proceeds of a proposed retail and housing development at the Camrose after their debts are paid off.

The EVO-STIK League Southern Premier Division clubs's CEO David Knight said: “Everyone at the club who has been involved in the decision-making process about its future has been working hard to find a new ground in the town or borough.

“Farnborough is considered to be the best ground-share option, particularly because its high quality facilities will enable our first team manager Terry Brown to retain and attract the quality of players that he needs as part of the on going work to deliver long-term progress and success.

“Everyone at the club hopes that local councillors will be keen to offer their help and support. We are keen to work with the local council to help the club remain in the town which has been its home for more than 120 years.

“With this goal in mind, the club has entered into discussions with Whitchurch United to explore a long-term ground-sharing possibility. There is also the potential to expand and develop another site within Basingstoke, but discussions are at a very early stage in this instance. Should this become a viable option, the club will announce those details at the earliest opportunity.”

Follow the EVO-STIK League Southern on Twitter at @SouthernLeague1

Where next?

Caretaker will see season out Interim manager Craig Martin will guide Feet Town until the end of the EVO-STIK League Southern campaign.

Saturday's Central Division action review Long-time leaders Royston Town just need a point to finally lay claim on the EVO-STIK League Southern Division One Central title, writes Pitchero's Steve Whitney.