It’s been a relentless few weeks off the pitch since the chairman’s resignation. As a board we have been attempting to secure the immediate future of the club, with meetings and complex discussions with a variety of different parties.

To say there’s been a lot going on behind the scenes is an understatement.

We feel we are making good progress, and as soon as we can make announcements about key issues, we will.

We are required to meet ground grading requirements by the end of the month.

Some of the work has already started and we will also be holding an action day at The Citadel on Sunday where we hope to get as many supporters and community members to help out at the ground. Please put the date in your diary! Times will be announced later this week.

Our main issue is the pitch. We have been meeting various potential funders, including the Football Foundation, as well as contractors and the league. Those discussions are complex and take time, but are progressing and are our priority.

We hope to make a positive announcement regarding a new grass pitch once everything is in place.

As a board we are continuing to look at ways to bring in fresh funding into the club and ensure some stability moving forward. We have circulated commercial brochures to businesses in Farsley and beyond and will be announcing new sponsors shortly. If your business would like to become a commercial partner, please contact jon@farsleyceltic.com.

We’d like to thank everyone for their generous donations to our crowdfunder which, at the time of going to press, sits at more than £13,500. This is a real boost to help us continue and we’ve been heartened by the level of support not just locally but from football supporters across the country.

Please do consider donating if you haven’t already: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/farsley-celticfc

Please keep your eyes peeled for news of some special fundraising events we’re looking to hold soon.

On the pitch, we can only pay tribute to our young squad who continue to step up, show great character and give 100% for the shirt. We couldn’t be prouder and can ask no more from these incredible young lads, who are products of our Emerging Talent Squad.

It was good to see the lads back enjoying training sessions last week.

We’d also like to thank manager David Stockdale for the incredible work he is doing with the young players. David inherited a difficult situation and knew the challenges when he took on the role and we’re grateful for his professionalism, commitment and dedication to the club.

We note Leeds City Council has granted Farsley Celtic Supporters Club’s bid to get The Citadel listed as an asset of community value. The legislation also gives an opportunity for communities to make a bid to purchase the land on the open market if a “relevant disposal” is made by the owner:

Tickets for our home game against Scunthorpe in Buxton are now available and can be bought in advance here. Please come along and support the lads. Supporters club travel is available. Admission is also available by payment at the turnstile.

And last, but not least, a big thank you to supporters for your continued loyalty. Football without fans is nothing, and we’re very grateful for your support.

We hope we can repay your loyalty by getting football back at The Citadel as soon as we possibly can.