Farsley Celtic Football Club has confirmed its withdrawal from the Northern Counties East League and will have no men’s first team football this season.
The move was expected by many, as the cash-strapped club had been unable to announce any pre-season friendlies or sign any players for the forthcoming season.
It follows a traumatic 2024-25 season which saw The Celts relegated three divisions from National League North and play games away from its home ground following aborted work to lay a new 4G pitch.
In a statement issued this morning, the club said: “We can confirm that, following extensive discussions and careful consideration, we have taken the difficult decision to withdraw our team from the Northern Counties East League for the 2025/26 season.
“This decision has not been taken lightly and comes as part of a wider strategic review of the club’s structure, amid ongoing developments regarding a proposed takeover.
“Given the current situation and the transitional period we are entering, it has been determined that stepping back from NCEL competition is the most appropriate course of action at this time.
“All relevant stakeholders have been fully consulted throughout the process, and their views have been carefully considered in reaching this outcome.”
The club said that as a result of this decision, the Elite Talent Squad and the Academy & Education Programme have chosen to leave the club ahead of the 2025/26 season.
“While this is a significant change, we respect their decision and thank them for their contribution to the development of young players during their time at Farsley Celtic,” the statement added.
Farsley said the decision does not affect its Women’s, Deaf, or Development teams, all of which will continue to operate as planned during the 2025/26 season.
The club announced earlier this month that the Stockdale family – which includes former Fulham and Brighton goalkeeper David Stockdale – had agreed a deal to buy the club.
As the Stockdales’ proposed takeover continues to go through the legal process, the statement also expressed ‘excitement’ for the future of the club.
“Despite these changes, the mood around the club is a positive one,” the club said.
“We are working hard behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition to the new ownership, and we are excited about the ambitious plans already being developed with them.
“These plans include significant improvements to facilities and a renewed focus on player development, community engagement, and the long-term sustainability of the club.
“We would also like to place on record our sincere thanks to the Northern Counties East League for their support and understanding during this period, and we remain committed to maintaining a positive relationship with them moving forward.”
Oh dear it gets worse, But never mind that. The club still have their heads in the sand refusing to pay wages illegally withheld to the bar staff from 2024.
Shame on the current and former directors.
Heartbreaking for Farsley Celtic FC, players, staff and fans alike. With the Stockdales vision for the future hopefully this isn’t the end of the club.