With the start of the new Spar Mid Wales League season only a couple of weeks away there comes news of another withdrawal from the second division.
In a statement on the league’s website, Bettws’ spokesman Malcolm Phillips explained that, while it was regrettable, circumstances had left the club officials with no option.
“It is with great sadness and regret that I have to inform you that Bettws FC are unable to raise a team to play in Spar Mid Wales League 2 for the forthcoming season.
“I apologise on behalf of the club for this decision and the obvious inconvenience it is going to cause you.
“Several players have left and we have been unable to replace them leaving us with a squad too small to compete in any league and we feel it is best to withdraw now rather than later.
“We all regret this decision but I’m afraid its unavoidable.”
It is a great shame for all concerned and we wish Bettws well for the future – hopefully they will be able to regroup and come back into league football in the coming seasons.
But the wider concern has to be the loss of two clubs before the season has even started – you may remember Forden United also announced they are to withdraw.
While it’s bitterly disappointing for both clubs – and both are to be applauded for taking the decision early rather than leaving the league with the inevitable ‘record expunged’ situation later in the season – it must be a concern to those running grass roots football
Given that Rhosgoch Rangers and Llansantffraid Village withdrew ahead of last season there is an argument this is becoming a trend.
While there are no easy answers, this apparent reduction in the number of players willing to commit is an area that needs addressing quickly if more clubs are not to face similar issues.