NORTH Leigh have warned that unless they get bigger crowds they could be forced to drop out of the Evo-Stik South League – or even fold.

Chairman Pete King has issued a plea to locals to support the club which carries the flag for west Oxfordshire following the demise of Witney Town at the start of the century,

“We need your help,” he urged. “Please come forward if you possibly can, or the club may face relegation from the league or even worse, possibly extinction.”

In a letter to villagers, entitled ‘We Need You,’ King said: “This season has seen our support at home matches dwindle (to 50-60).

“Should this continue, it would be difficult for the club to maintain their status in the Southern League, where we have been very successful for the past ten years.

“Although this season hasn’t been going well, the club has finished consistently in the top eight and won the Oxfordshire Senior Cup three times.

“We have competed and punched above our weight for a small village for many years, when you consider we play against large town and city teams such as Winchester and Taunton.

“Financially, it takes a large amount of money to compete in this league and sometimes our home gate income doesn’t even cover the officials’ costs.

“We are indebted to businesses and individuals who sponsor the club, but we need more support on match days.

“We are a family-oriented club with a lovely pitch-side bar. Our entrance price is the lowest in the league at £8 adults, £5 concessions – and for all those under 16 it is free.”

Only this week, the Millers had to forfeit their Oxfordshire Senior Cup quarter-final tie at home to Oxford City, due to a shortage of qualified players.

King also pointed out they need to replace general and match secretary Keith Huxley, who is stepping down at the end of the season after 24 years’ service.

Those willing to help can contact King on 07974 991269.

Meanwhile, the Millers will be looking for a boost when they travel to Bideford in the West Division tomorrow.

They beat high-flying Bideford 4-3 in a classic in November, and manager John Brough has been enthused by his side’s recent performances.

“We’ve dipped a bit in our league position, but we go to Bideford on the back of two improved performances.

“I have a lot of faith in the young lads I’ve brought in from the reserves. They haven’t let us down.”

Sam Mattock is unavailable with work commitments.

North Leigh (v Bideford, away): from Griffiths, Thompson, Lymn, Hopkins, Simpson, Keightley, Paddock, R James, Sheehan, Seacole, Carroll, Green, Cook, Barney, McGlynn, Grabe, D James.