Corby Town FC struggles with shortfall of 'thousands'

Corby Town's directors are appealing for new investors and board members as the club struggles to make ends meet

A non-league football club is looking for new investors after suffering a monthly shortfall of £14,000.

The directors of Corby Town, which is in the Northern Premier League, put out a statement on Sunday.

The club said despite "careful planning" and the "unwavering support" of major investors Paul Glass and James Longley, it could not meet its budget.

It said the goal was "to build a successful Corby Town team" that "aims for greater achievements".

Corby Town has struggled with finances in the past, facing collapse in 2014, when several of the Steelmen's players boycotted matches over unpaid wages.

Many non-league football clubs have been under the cosh in recent months due to the cost of living crisis.

Corby's directors said the club was facing "a shortfall of approximately £70,000 for the season, primarily due to other overheads at Steel Park."

They said the weekly budget of £3,500-£4,000 relied on successful cup runs and an average attendance of "around 700", which had "not materialised".

'Significant personal contributions'

Other investors who had agreed to help fund wages withdrew, so the club "made a minimal reduction in the budget".

But it has relied heavily on extra "significant personal contributions" from Mr Glass and Mr Longley, who have put in an extra £34,000 this season and "are faced with the prospect of contributing £14,000 per month to sustain our operations".

The directors said they were actively seeking help with investment and oversight, and invited new applications to join the board, particularly from anyone with commercial expertise.

"We understand the concerns of our fans and the community," they said.

"We assure you that every decision we make is with the club's best interest at heart, aiming for a sustainable and prosperous future for Corby Town Football Club."