Moving in with Milton not a merger claim Bash (From Thisisdorset)

Moving in with Milton not a merger claim Bash

6:44pm Friday 1st March 2013 in Latest Sport By Neil Perrett

BASHLEY have claimed their proposal to join forces with neighbours New Milton would not constitute a merger.

The Southern League outfit has issued a statement in an attempt to explain the reasons behind their intended move to Fawcett’s Field.

A potential alliance would almost certainly see New Milton forced to resign from the Wessex League with a newly-named Bashley New Milton competing at step three on the non-league ladder.

FA rules prevent clubs merging to improve their league standing, while ground-sharing is not permitted in the Wessex League.

While it is understood the Southern League is happy for Bash to move – subject to ground grading – is it understood they will not consent to the name change.

Bashley are awaiting a decision from the FA as to whether they will overturn this decision, while the move is also subject to a planning issue regarding a stand.

Part of the Bashley statement, published in full on our website, read: “It is important to point out that there is still a lot of work to be done and that nothing can happen without permission from the FA to change our name to Bashley New Milton and planning permission to complete necessary work in line with Southern League ground-grading requirements at Fawcett's Field.

“Essentially, the two clubs will not be merging, but the current Bashley Football Club respects its duty to and wants to represent the wider New Milton community moving forward.

“In due course, we would like to push for Conference South football and really put the area on the map again, emulating the successes of Bashley’s illustrious past.”

BASHLEY STATEMENT

“Following recent press coverage over Bashley Football Club’s proposed name change and move to Fawcett’s Field, the club would like to clarify our position for supporters and explain the reasons behind the move.

“It is important to point out that there is still a lot of work to be done and that nothing can happen without permission from the FA to change our name to Bashley New Milton and planning permission to complete necessary work in line with Southern League ground-grading requirements at Fawcett’s Field.

“At that point, when we know we can proceed, there will be an EGM at the club where members can air their views and vote on the proposals.

“With regard to the name change, we know that identity is very important to any football club and its supporters. Bashley is a part of New Milton and the club will, despite moving from the Bashley area itself, still be representing the wider community in both the Bashley and New Milton areas.

“Essentially, the two clubs will not be merging, but the current Bashley Football Club respects its duty to and wants to represent the wider New Milton community moving forward.

“While playing from Fawcett’s Field, we will continue to represent Bashley while increasing opportunities to benefit more people with Football in the Community projects as well as, hopefully, playing in front of larger crowds and opening up more commercial opportunities.

“Key to the success of this move from a Bashley perspective is being able to uphold our proud tradition in local football. The club has punched above its weight in the Southern League for many years and the time has come for us to try and put that proud heritage on a sounder, more sustainable footing.

“It is with a heavy heart that the club feels this is not possible at Bashley Road. We all love our home, and it holds many fantastic memories for everyone, but the limitations on ground improvements, ground availability and potential for increased attendances make it difficult for the club to sustain the level we operate at, let alone look upwards.

“In due course, we would like to push for Conference South football and really put the area on the map again, emulating the successes of Bashley’s illustrious past and, as mentioned in the Daily Echo coverage, achieving the ground grading for that would be far easier at Fawcett’s Field.

“Bashley FC only has access to Bashley Road from the beginning of August to the middle of May and requires special permission for access at other times which causes problems when trying to arrange high-profile friendlies at home amongst other things.

“In addition, Bashley Road is owned by the Charities Commission and decisions on the land are run through the Village Hall. Not only would improvements to and maintenance of Bashley Road be more costly but also more difficult to implement.

“The facilities at Fawcett’s Field are also more geared towards exercising our Football in the Community projects that are vital to the integration and long-term sustainability of the club.

“We are very aware that this move will not be for everyone but we encourage supporters to understand that we are not taking decisions lightly. A lot has gone into this process, from soul searching to rational discourse.

“If there was a bottomless pit of cash and no restrictions on Bashley Road then, of course, we would love to stay at a ground that is dear to all of our hearts.

“But, ultimately, the choice is between maintaining Southern League football for the wider community in our area or see another club drop down the levels because it is not sustainable.

“At the moment, we have two clubs within a couple of miles of each other representing, largely, the same community. Many supporters who cannot make away games with their respective clubs can often be seen sporting their colours at the others grounds.

“The new name of Bashley New Milton respects the heritage of Bashley FC while acknowledging that we also represent the New Milton area where many of our supporters and commercial backers come from.

“The move to New Milton is not leaving Bashley behind, it is through necessity and we need the many loyal people who support us from the Bashley area to continue to do so at Fawcett’s Field.

“To the committee, this is an exciting prospect, a chance to maintain a strong level of football for people in the area for years to come and, hopefully, a vision that supporters can share in and help to make happen.

“Feedback from the majority of Bashley supporters around the ground has been supportive so far. However, we are aware that some fans are less happy and, as a club, we are willing to talk to any supporters, whatever their opinion, as long as questions, comments, debates and suggestions are constructive.”