CINDERFORD TOWN have alleviated fears that they would resign from the Southern League by confirming they will compete at Step 3 next season after they were forced to take promotion.
With Evesham United winning their appeal against the decision to move them to the Evo-Stik NPL Division One South, Cinderford were told they would have to play in the Southern Premier.
The Foresters, who won the Southern League South & West last season, initially opted not to go up, claiming promotion could plunge their future into doubt.
Town have a £30,000 HMRC bill hanging over them and manager John Brough, and all of the title winning squad, have left but the club say they have decided to fight on rather than resign.
Chairman Stuart Tait said: “As many of you are aware yesterday we received written confirmation from the FA that Cinderford Town AFC, as champions of the Southern League South & West, have been forced into taking promotion, a decision that we are unable to appeal as its “final and binding”.
“I am pleased to confirm that the new management committee of Cinderford Town AFC, during a emergency meeting last (Wednesday) night, have voted unanimously to take promotion other than the option to resign from the league.
“Whilst this will cause great stress to our sustainable business plan, our committee is fully behind this decision in order to deal with outstanding HMRC claims of £30k, increased running costs, and stadium improvement works to maintain the highest standard of football to be seen at the Causeway.
“Planning for the season is well underway and we will be confirming the signing of several players over the next 48 hours. We now look forward to a successful season ahead.”
