Club update on the cessation of the season

The National League has this week published the outcome of the voting on its resolutions and declared the National Leagues South and North 2020/21 season null and void, ceasing with immediate effect. The National League (premier) will continue to a conclusion. There will be no promotion or relegation from NL South and North. All is subject to ratification by the FA Council.

The full details of the resolutions and voting can be seen here.

Club Chairman, Nick Blofeld, acknowledged the decision as the right thing for the Club:

“Firstly, we would of course much prefer to be playing football as it is why we exist, and we are very disappointed for our supporters, players, coaches and support staff. But we also know that the finances for the season simply wouldn’t stack up with no attendance at matches and without grants. So this is the right decision for the financial security of Bath City and, we believe, for the League. Thank you to everyone who has supported us through this very difficult time – we’re proud of the solidarity of the Club, supporters, management and players and look forward to a much brighter 2021/22 season – with all our clubs still solvent and competing.

And I would like to pay tribute to Jerry, Jim and the players especially, who competed in the most trying of circumstances and were just beginning to hit their stride when things came to a halt. Now we will focus on planning for next season and beyond.”

Manager Jerry Gill offered his own thoughts:

“At last we have clarity after a very disjointed and emotional 13-game season for us all at Bath City FC. No football for five months is going to be tough but recruitment targeting and planning for season 21/22 has already started. See you all soon.”

Jerry later added that he’s against any moves being mooted by some clubs to split the divisions for mini-promotion leagues, as that would undermine the integrity of the competition when clubs like City still had so many points to play for.

The Club Board is meeting on Monday and we will be in touch with 2020/21 season ticket holders in the following two weeks.

Thank you once again for your consistently strong support.