Question to Whitelaw.

[Smudge]

Alan,firstly can I congratulate you on the smooth transition that has taken place in the C.C.L. since you have taken over.But as you may know,I have asked many times on this Forum what is the latest re:GROUNDSHARING,the last information on here was that a meeting was to be held at Burton Albion F.C.Regarding this matter.Any update as to the situation of the Ryman Leagues stance,which is a restriction of trade in my opinion would be greatly appreciated.What action are the C.C.L.taking on behalf of their Member Clubs who are affected by this stance that the Ryman League have taken,in securing their future.As I know time flies,soon be April,will these Clubs be HOMELESS,and left to go it alone.I hope not.

[lazarus]

By co-incidence, the Board discussed this issue yesterday evening.

 

Although there are obviously very differing views on the subject, the CCL has generally supported ground sharing. All we have tended to look for, or at least try to look for, is some evidence that the clubs in question are looking to bring their own grounds (or acquire grounds) up to the required standards in the fullness of time.

 

We have very little direct influence over leagues higher than ourselves. However, the whole issue is due to be debated by the National Leagues Committee and following last night's meeting, we are in the process of writing to the FA through the National Leagues Manager outlining the advantages of ground sharing as we see them and, more particularly, emphasising the problem that some of our clubs (and hence, the League) would face if the Ryman League, for example, were to suddenly refuse to accept any form of ground sharing.

 

Whilst writing I regret that I have not been able to contribute greatly to the Forum in recent weeks, especially when issues are raised in a sensible and constructive way. Being the League Secretary, combined with fixtures, is almost a full time job I find especially when all the various meetings are added in and it leaves me with not too much time for other matters.

[Chris Clapham]

By co-incidence, the Board discussed this issue yesterday evening.

 

Although there are obviously very differing views on the subject, the CCL has generally supported ground sharing. All we have tended to look for, or at least try to look for, is some evidence that the clubs in question are looking to bring their own grounds (or acquire grounds) up to the required standards in the fullness of time.

 

We have very little direct influence over leagues higher than ourselves. However, the whole issue is due to be debated by the National Leagues Committee and following last night's meeting, we are in the process of writing to the FA through the National Leagues Manager outlining the advantages of ground sharing as we see them and, more particularly, emphasising the problem that some of our clubs (and hence, the League) would face if the Ryman League, for example, were to suddenly refuse to accept any form of ground sharing.

 

Whilst writing I regret that I have not been able to contribute greatly to the Forum in recent weeks, especially when issues are raised in a sensible and constructive way. Being the League Secretary, combined with fixtures, is almost a full time job I find especially when all the various meetings are added in and it leaves me with not too much time for other matters.

 

Are you paid for your work Alan?

If so, by what source?

[Smudge]

Thanks for your immediate reply Alan,much appreciated,if you could keep us up to date,with any future news concerning this matter I would be very grateful. Now nose back to the grindstone.

[lazarus]

No, unlike some other equivalent leagues, all CCL officers are basically unpaid volunteers.

[Big J R]

And a very worthy bunch they are, too !!