FAN-OWNED VICS ARE WELCOMED IN

NORTHWICH Victoria’s place in the Hallmark Security North West Counties League Premier Division has been ratified by the league – less than 24 hours after fans announced a takeover of the club.

Northwich Victoria Supporters’ Association concluded seven months of talks with an insolvency practitioner appointed by owner Martin Rushe by taking possession of the club, who were relegated from EVO-STIK South, and setting up a new company to run it.

The club had been deducted ten points for going into administration, and had faced demotion down two levels of the pyramid instead of one, until fans rallied round and raised £16,000 to pay off creditors.

Their place at Step 5 was confirmed at the league’s annual general meeting in Blackpool last week after clubs voted to admit them.

The club will groundshare with Barnton following the end of an agreement to play at Witton Albion.

A club statement said: “We were warmly welcomed and look forward to many exciting years ahead.

“Paul Moore our manager has already started to put the building blocks in place to build a team to represent this proud club for the coming season.

“For Northwich Victoria Limited, the hard work now begins as we search for sponsors, volunteers and fans wishing to join this exciting adventure.”

The Rushe family had owned the club since 2007, and it had gone into administration three times.

Now the newly fans-owned Vics will meet 1874 Northwich, who were set up by the club’s disgruntled supporters in 2012.