A team vying for safety alongside Bradford (Park Avenue) have resigned from the Northern Premier League.

Marske United, who currently sit in 18th (out of 22), handed in a letter of resignation to the league on January 3, having had financial difficulties throughout this current campaign.

In a statement regarding the resignation of Marske, the NPL confirmed: “On January 3, 2024, the Northern Premier League received a letter of resignation from Marske United FC along with a signed motion voted upon by the club’s committee present at a meeting held on January 2 confirming the decision to resign from membership of the NPL.

“The League has been in regular dialogue with Mark Hastings-Long, chairman of Marske United, providing help and guidance. Mr Hastings-Long has been working hard to find a way to address the issues facing the club and has provided regular updates to the league. However, the latest financial information shows the accumulated monthly losses mean that the club cannot realistically complete the 2023/24 playing season.

“The league is disappointed and sad to lose a member in such circumstances and thanks the club for their attention and efforts over the past few weeks.”

Details regarding the impact of Marske’s exit on the rest of the teams in the division will be made public soon.

The statement added: “The NPL board will convene in the coming days and no further statement will be issued until after that meeting.”

FURTHER INFORMATION

Marske United have been saved due to significant financial contributions and fundraising efforts.

However, they were not able to raise the £120,000 to continue in the Northern Premier League Premier Division and have consequently withdrawn from the league. Discussions are underway as to which lower division they will play in next season.

They will remain playing at Mount Pleasant.