County risk Nott being the oldest club anymore

NOTTS COUNTY’S proud boast about being the oldest club in the Football League is under threat – from city rivals Nottingham Forest.

County, founded in 1862, are fighting to escape relegation to the Vanarama National League for the first time in their history after slipping to the bottom of League Two.

If they lose their battle then one of the original 12 founding members of the Football League in 1888 will be lost to the competition.

It was assumed Stoke City would then become the oldest club in the top four divisions. The Potters’ club crest carries the date 1863 – but historians have discovered evidence that suggests their formation was actually FIVE YEARS LATER.

That means Forest – formed in 1865 – will replace their rivals as the OLDEST club in the Premier League and Football League.

Football historian Mark Metcalf said: “There is no evidence to suggest that Stoke City were formed in 1863.

“Official records show that a club known as Stoke Ramblers was formed in October 1868 when they played their first game. They became Stoke Victoria Cricket Club and eventually Stoke City.

“That club then suffered financial problems in the early 20th century, went into liquidation, and resigned from the Football League.

“A year later, local businessmen, the clergy and supporters came together to purchase the old club’s assets. Basically, it means that Nottingham Forest are the second-oldest club in the top four divisions and will become the oldest if Notts County are relegated.”

SIMON MULLOCK