Stowmarket Town Football Club, founded in 1883, continue to face one of the most serious financial challenges in their history, their directors have said.
On June 29, a new board of directors was elected and discovered the club had inherited debts exceeding £100,000, including more than £40,000 owed to HMRC.
The directors worked to try and reduce some of the debts, including launching children’s football camps and community tournaments, rebranding the clubhouse as ‘The 1883 Family Sports Bar & Restaurant’, which is now open six days a week.
They also paid all HMRC and supplier invoices since June 29 in full and on time and successfully raised more than £8,000 through the One Pint Challenge campaign, paying off 20% of the HMRC debt.
Club chairman Jeff Letter(Image: Contributed)
On October 10, an HMRC field collector arrived at the club demanding full payment or seizure of club assets.
The officer requested an inventory from director Tom Butterworth and left formal notice confirming that if the debt cannot be cleared or assets sold, HMRC will take legal action to recover the amount owed such as a winding-up order.
Club chairman Jeff Letter said: “We inherited a dire financial situation but have refused to give up. The community, players, and volunteers have rallied together to keep this proud club alive.
“However, the clock is now ticking. Without immediate support — through sponsorships, fundraising, or community backing — Stowmarket Town FC could face closure within weeks.
“This club belongs to the people of Stowmarket, and we are doing everything possible to protect its future.”
The club is calling on support from businesses, fans and the wider community to help save the club by supporting their ongoing fundraising and sponsorship initiatives.
Contributors can be made directly through club fundraising campaigns or by contacting the club for partnership opportunities.