The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
UCL clubs breathe a huge sigh of relief
THE Chromosport and Trophies United Counties League has won its fight for survival.
More than 100 years of unbroken tradition looked like being swept aside after the FA announced plans to reduce the number of Step 5 leagues in the country from 14 to 12.
The UCL was one of two leagues - along with the Sussex League - earmarked for the axe but following a lengthy battle by league officals, clubs and even local MPS, the FA has been forced to shelve the controversial plan.
Had the re-structuring gone ahead local sides like Peterborough Northern Star, Yaxley, Deeping Rangers and a host of others would have faced spiralling costs had they been forced to join leagues based many miles away.
The plan had been due to come into effect next season, sparking uncertainty in the UCL but chairman John Weeks was delighted to be able to confirm that the league - which was established in 1895 - lives on.
He said: “Following today’s press announcement by the FA, in particular that the process of reduc-
james.westgate@jpress.co.uk ing Step 5 leagues from 14 to 12 was deemed unworkable and the initial suggestion withdrawn, the Chromasport & Trophies United Counties Football League wish to thank all concerned for their united support against those initial suggestions.
“We have had overwhelming support from many within the FA and also county FAS, other leagues and clubs, national and local press, MPS and many other individuals and organisations, both in the UK and abroad.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank our clubs for their unanimous and unwavering support and our officers and management committee members for their unstinting efforts in producing facts, figures and documents to fight those suggestions from the FA.
“Leagues at Step 5 can now focus on their future with the knowledge that our voice has not only been heard but acted upon.”