We are not out of the woods yet and much remains to be done to secure our future for coming seasons which we must do to continue our quest to obtain planning permission for our own ground, says Canterbury City chairman Tim Clark

CANTERBURY CITY chairman Tim Clark says the club are not out of the woods yet after being saved from quitting the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division after receiving a generous donation.

The homeless club announced on Sunday that they weren’t able to financially sustain playing in the ninth-tier of English football and were about to withdraw from the league after only eight games into the season.

However, manager Chris Woollcott can now prepare his side for Saturday’s trip to league rivals Tunbridge Wells in The FA Vase Second Qualifying Round.

“Following a generous donation we were able to contact the Southern Counties East Football League to give notice we believed we were in a position to withdraw our request to exit the League,” said Clark in a statement.

“The original decision to exit being a very difficult one that was not taking lightly.

“The League have been very understanding and following our request offered a 48 hour window to find a way to remain at Step Five.

“Negotiations have continued into Tuesday evening and indeed are ongoing but we are very pleased to confirm that we have secured our presence at Faversham Town for the rest of the season.

“Thank you to (Faversham Town chairman) Paul Bennett and all the committee for their understanding and help. Others have reached out too with offers of help – grassroots football at its best.

“We are hoping to minimise the disruption to the playing team, however, we understand that from being paid, to potentially not, leaves a decision to be made.

“We are hopeful that Chris Woollcott will be able to retain the vast majority to help guide us as a club throughout the rest of the season.

“We are not out of the woods yet and much remains to be done to secure our future for coming seasons which we must do to continue our quest to obtain planning permission for our own ground and ensure Canterbury City Council honour the promise they made over 20 years ago.

“But for now the City of Canterbury has a senior football club representing them and what better way to show your support to come and watch City play Erith Town at Salters Lane Faversham on Saturday 2 October.  We look forward to welcoming you and thank you for your continuing support.”

Visit Canterbury City’s website: www.canterburycityfc.net