Basford United have confirmed it will groundshare with Newark Football Club for the 2021/22 season, following approval from the Northern Premier League.
The agreement will see the step five side, formerly known as Newark Flowserve, play their home league and cup matches at Greenwich Avenue after being evicted from their Lowfields base by the landowner who plans to erect housing on the site.
Commenting on the agreement, Newark Chairman Gary Clarke said: “We would like to publicly thank Basford for allowing this move for us.
“They have been absolutely fantastic in every way and are delighted to announce a season-long groundshare with Nottingham’s premier non-league side. Basford have always set the benchmark for us as a Club, and we will enjoy making use of their fantastic and ever-improving facilities.
“Special thanks go out to Chris (Munroe, Chairman and Owner), Tracie (Witton, General Manager) and Steve (Chettle, First Team Manager), who have all be instrumental in making this possible – we look forward to working alongside all associated at the club and wish them the very best for their season ahead.
“The agreement secures the continuation of this football club at step five and gives us the valuable time needed to engage with local councillors to negotiate our options to find a new home in Newark. We want to build this club at the heart of the community where it belongs.
“We would also like to thank our players, staff, supporters, sponsors and everyone within the local and sporting communities that have supported us during what has been a difficult period.
“The hard work off the pitch will continue, and the football club will do all we can to repay this support and faith as we strive to secure a new home and confirmation of league restructures, pre-season plans and a view from the football club into the forthcoming season will follow over the next few weeks.”
Basford Chairman and Owner Chris Munroe added: “On behalf of Basford United, I would like to formally welcome all those connected with Newark Football Club to Greenwich Avenue and I have no doubt we will provide a superb and welcome venue for all their fans, players and officials.”
Known as the Highwayman, Newark sat fourth in the Midland Football League last season after promotion from the East Midlands Counties League, before the campaign was annulled due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.
*Article provided by Marc Williams (Basford United Correspondent).
*Main image @CLPhotography Greenwich Avenue will be temporary home for Newark FC.
