Toolstation NCEL Division One
The chairman of FC Humber United is stepping down as the story takes its latest twist.
Richard Smales is leaving by the end of May, just 48 hours after the club announced they were merging with Askern Miners.
The news was widely condemned on social media as Askern taking a place in the NCEL would certainly question the integrity of the FA’ as the Central Midlands League would be seen to be bypassing the formal application process and rules for promotion to Step 6.
Askern finished second bottom of the CML and are due to resign and join Division Two of the Sheffield & Hallamshire County Senior League – pending acceptance at Tuesday’s interviews.
However, the merger news has confused the situation.
The NCEL have announced the merger on their website, but insist it still has to be ratified by the FA.
The latest Humber statement said: “The club can today confirm that Chairman, Richard Smales, will be stepping away from the position of Chairman and relinquish ownership shares from the newly named Askern club which will take FC Humber place in the NCEL for 2022/23 season.
“Richard comments: ‘This decision hasn’t been taken lightly however it is one that I have to make for the benefit of the club continuing at Step 6. Over the last few weeks I have been considering my position anyway and given the last 48 hours any concerns that I had have been brought to the public domain across social media. I wish everyone well for next season and beyond, a hand over period will commence from today until the end of may so that the new management group of Askern can continue with their plans.’
“Further details will be announced in the coming weeks regarding the continuation of FC Humber in the East Riding Counties league once everything has been confirmed accordingly.
“No further comment will be made on the move and change of club name.”