110-year-old English football club to close down next month after stadium ban | Football | Sport

An English non-League club with over 100 years of history has announced it will cease operations next month. VCD Athletic, from Crayford in South East London, were originally founded in 1916 during the First World War.

They were set up by employees from the now-defunct Vickers armaments factory, and go by the full name Vickers, Crayford & Dartford Athletic Football Club. They are currently competing in the Isthmian League South East Division, but have been embroiled in a row surrounding ownership of their stadium.

As such, the club announced via a social media post that operations at VCD Athletic will wind down in the coming weeks. It read: “It is with profound sadness and the heaviest of hearts that VCD Athletic Football Club announces that, as of 17th May 2026, the club will cease operations.

“This decision has not been made lightly. Following the change in ownership of our ground, we have not been offered a new lease to remain at our historic home on Old Road. Despite sustained and genuine efforts by the club to engage in meaningful discussions and to find a way forward, regrettably, opportunities to enter into negotiations have not materialised.

“VCD Athletic has proudly been part of the Old Road community since 1916. For over a century, the club has been more than just a football team —it has been a cornerstone of local identity, bringing together players, supporters, volunteers, and generations of families who have shared in its history, spirit, and achievements.”

The statement continued: “To reach this point, where we must accept that the continuation of the club is no longer viable, is deeply painful. However, in the absence of a lease and with no alternative resolution available, we are left with no option but to acknowledge that this outcome is now inevitable.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported VCD Athletic throughout its long and proud history. Your loyalty, dedication, and passion have been the lifeblood of this club. As we bring this chapter to a close, we do so with immense pride in what has been built since 1916, and with sincere appreciation for all those who have been part of our journey.”

Fans flocked to the club’s social media page to share their condolences, with @NEFootyEnthuse saying: “Visited as a ground hopper there 10 years ago. Very sad to hear this news. Maybe London Borough of Bexley should consider a covenant on the land if they haven’t already. Keep it for sports use only!!”

@rjpscouting added: “Really sad for all involved. If there is any way of finding a solution at all, I really hope they can find one but the statement sounds pretty final. Gutted for all associated.”

@timstillman_ wrote: “Really sad to read this as a local. Was there earlier this season and last season, the groundsman kindly let me and my daughter in on a non matchday because she was curious to look around. I hope there can be a resolution still.”