Historic Rhondda club Ton Pentre could cease to exist this summer it has been revealed.
The Bulldogs were relegated from Division One after finishing bottom for a second consecutive season and now have a serious fight on their hands to continue the club in its current format.
The club have cited problems such as a lack of sponsorship, community support and volunteers at this current time as the reason the club may be forced to fold.
Ton Pentre have no debt problems and have been able to erect a new 250-seater stand, with more ground improvements planned.
A statement published from the board of Ton Pentre this evening reveals the possibility of not running a team next season.
“Without immediate action there is a real possibility that Ton Pentre will not be in a position to commence, or compete in the 2019/2020 season. This is, therefore a very distressing time for all involved in the club.
“The club cannot live in the past and although efforts have been made to modernize Ton Pentre AFC, the environment which the club finds itself is is a difficult one. The future of the club is in serious jeopardy.”
The club’s statement also suggests a possible merger between Ton Pentre & Ton & Gelli BC. The South Wales Alliance League side currently play in the fifth tier of Welsh football and also play at Ynys Park.
“The Board of Ton Pentre AFC suggest that a merger of the two clubs should be considered to protect the future of football in Ton Pentre.
“Both clubs have a rich and proud history and we believe the relationships between the both entities could be strengthened to provide a full and complete player pathway for aspiring footballers of all ages and genders in the Rhondda.”
Anyone who is interested in helping the club have been told to contact the club through their social media platform streams or via email on sec.tonpentre@gmail.com.
The Bulldogs are scheduled to play their final home fixture tomorrow against Ammanford.
(Featured Image: Ton Pentre AFC)
keith jones
jordon jones, iplayed for Ton Pentre in the late 50’s early 60’s when we won the welsh league title. Ton were a great side in those days. i now live in sydney australia and i still follow Ton.when i read about he club might be folding up i was devastated. i sincerely hope that the people of Ton Pentre and the rhondda valley unite together and save this great club.
yours truly keith jones.