OFFICIALS at Barnard Castle Football Club have launched an urgent search for additional sponsors as they prepare for a hike in running costs.
With the team riding high in the first division of the Wearside League and promotion to the top flight a distinct possibility, the club face the challenge of success bringing with it increased outlay.
Barney are lying second in the table, one point behind Willington and three ahead of Ferryhill Athletic, with a game in hand.
Last weekend’s cup tie against Willington fell victim to the snow, so the side should be back in league action tomorrow (Saturday) – weather permitting – at home to Wolviston, hoping to extend an excellent run of form.
Manager John Close said the club could become a victim of its success, come the end of the season.
“We are in a good position to go up. We are one point off the top and have won ten games in a row,” he said.
“We are pushing for promotion to step seven [of the football feeder system] which has been the aim of getting all the ground redevelopments done.
“Reaching step seven also means there are three officials for each home game, which has a significant financial impact.”
Currently, the club pays the referee’s £30 match fee and mileage, with a representative of each of the two teams running the line.
In the Wearside League premier division, home clubs must pay the referee’s fee plus £25 to each of the appointed assistants and the mileage of all three officials.
“At the moment, we pay about £45 to £55 per home game for the referee – about £1,000 for the season,” said Mr Close.
“This will increase to about £2,500 next season if we achieve promotion and we don’t really have that extra money.”
In addition, the club is likely to need a new strip next season at a cost of up to £700.
Mr Close said that unlike some clubs in the league, Barney is run on a shoestring.
It does receive some sponsorship income, with fundraising events such as race and quiz nights and a monthly 100 club.
Mr Close said: “At the moment, to run our club every season costs £5-7,000.
“If we could get one sponsor, or four or five, to make up the additional costs, that would be ideal.
“We don’t pay players. If we are promoted we are supposed to charge spectators for admission, but we will most likely ask for a donation. We don’t want to take money from people: we want people to come and watch the football.”
Anyone who can help with sponsorship should get in touch by emailing Mr Close at John_close@hotmail.co.uk, calling 07999 339512 or using the club’s Facebook page.
