NORTHWICH Victoria and Winsford United have been moved into a new league for the 2023-24 season.
As a result of the FA’s National League System allocations published this afternoon for Steps 1-6, Vics and Winsford will play in the Midland League Premier Division next season having been moved from the North West Counties League’s top-flight.
Congleton Town join them in being moved from the NWCFL and all three must now plan for trips to sides in and around the West Midlands.
However, both clubs have expressed their dismay at the decision, suggesting it will put their financial viability in jeopardy.
In statements released this afternoon, both Vics and Winsford have confirmed they will be appealing their lateral moves.
Winsford United say they are "deeply shocked and extremely disappointed" by their reallocation.
Board of Directors Statement: pic.twitter.com/RIqExTivrk
— Winsford United FC (@WinsfordUnited) May 15, 2023
Vics have joined them in hitting out at the FA for a lack of dialogue over the move, saying they are "deeply disappointed" with the decision.
Club statement regarding the @FootballAssoc decision to move Northwich Victoria into the midlands league@lilysavage12345 @Ianegerton1974 @silk1069 @Cheshire_FA @nwcfl #footballassociation #appeal #grassroots #nonleaguefootball pic.twitter.com/dq4b6aExms
— Northwich Victoria F.C (@NorthwichVicsFC) May 15, 2023
The Midlands League's top flight contains 18 teams as opposed to the 24 in the North West Counties League Premier Division, meaning both sides will have six fewer home matches next season.
The allocations are subject to official ratification from the FA Council as well as an appeals process.
Vics will be under new management for the coming campaign following Steve Wilkes’ resignation after nearly six years in charge, with Steve Pickup stepping up from his role as assistant manager to take the reins.
Midland League Premier Division teams, 2023-24 season
AFC Wulfrunians, Atherstone Town, Bewdley Town, Congleton Town, Darlaston Town 1874, Dudley Town, Highgate United, Lichfield City, Northwich Victoria, Romulus, Shifnal Town, Stone Old Alleynians, Stourport Swifts, Studley, Tividale, Whitchurch Alport, Winsford United, Wolverhampton Casuals
1874 Northwich and Barnton will remain in the Northern Premier League West Division and the NWCFL First Division South respectively next season.
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