AFC Wallingford, who just over a year ago were playing Hellenic League Premier Division football, are in danger of folding.

A shortage of committee and players means that, for the first time in 87 years, the town could be without an adult football club.

AFC, who are based at the Wallingford’s Sports Trust’s Hithercroft ground, quit the Hellenic at the end of a disastrous 2007-8 season in which they suffered a serious of hefty defeats.

Because of their plight, they asked to be relegated back into the local North Berks League.

“We just managed to surviive in Division 1 last season,” said club secretary Richard May.

“But the club continues to struggle for support from the local community and have been kept going by a small handful of individuals for the past few years.

“The first team are without a manager.

“If we can't put a management team in place shortly, and more significantly, attract new people to help out, then we will have to consider disbanding our adult team.

“I don't need to say, this would be a very sad day for the town and for local football.

“We are therefore appealing to the local community to support its local football club in whatever capacity they may be able – playing, supporting, fund raising, sponsorship.”

The club have to pay £2,800 per year to play at the Hithercroft.

Their income comes from hiring out the pitch, most of which comes from Hellenic League Division 1 East side Thame United.

AFC Wallingford, who only seven years ago attracted a 2,000 crowd when they entertained AFC Wimbldeon in a top-of the table Combined Counties League match, are holding their annual meeting at the Hithercroft this Sunday (7.30pm).

Those interested in helping the club should contact May on 07973 736386 or email afcwallingford@hotmail.com.

l LOCAL businessman Ken-ny Shaw is the new chairman of Milton United.

Shaw, the proprietor of the Ridgeway Cafe Group, takes over from stand-in chairman Roger Bartlett, who filled the role during a disastrous last season for the Hellenic League club.

Not only were the club relegated to Divison 1 East, but there were a number of resignations from the committee.

There are still a couple of positions to fill, with a new secretary the main priority.

Anybody interested in helping the club in any capacity should ring 07778 970352.

Milton’s management team of Bobby Wilkinson and Albie Stephenson, are still on the look-out for new players.