Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies has vowed to do all he can to help Rhyl Football Club following their announcement this week that they are to close after 141 years of existence.
The club, founded in 1878, have begun the process of a formal winding-up order following a decision by the board of directors to cease all activity.
In a statement on Tuesday, the club blamed the shutdown on, "the unprecedented impact of COVID-19, the unwillingness of the ground's owner to consider either a long lease or sale on market terms and the ongoing fixed costs with no income prospects”.
There has been talk about a new club being formed, and Dr Davies has contacted the board of directors at Rhyl FC to offer his support in this endeavour.
Dr Davies said:
“It has been an extremely sad week for the club, its supporters and the town as a whole. My heart goes out to the board of directors, and all others involved, who I know have been doing their utmost in recent weeks to try to prevent this outcome.
“I have been in touch with the club to offer my full support. I know they are looking into the possibility of establishing a new ‘phoenix’ club and I have assured them I will do all I can to assist them if this is the route they decide to take.
“Rhyl have had some fantastic successes over the years – four-times winners of the Welsh Cup and Welsh Premier League champions in 2005 and 2009 earning them a Champions League qualification spot. The club has helped to put Rhyl on the map and attract crowds to the town.
“Rhyl Football Club is much loved and has been well supported throughout its 141 years of existence at the centre of the local community, and the Belle Vue ground has been an important hub for the town, particularly for our local children and young people. I hope it can be preserved for that use.
“Sport in the community is vital and with all the support it has behind it, I am confident the club will come back. In the meantime I wish to thank all those who have been involved in the club’s history and making it the great success it has been.”
