Barry Town expunged from Welsh League at own request
Last updated on .From the section Football
Barry Town's request to be withdrawn from the Welsh League has been accepted by the league's officials.
As a result, Barry's record will be expunged from the competition.
The request to withdraw came from Barry owner and secretary Stuart Lovering with just two games of the season remaining.
Barry Town Supporters' Committee (BTSC), who have run and funded the club since 2011, said they were "hugely saddened" by the league's decision.
"We, like everyone else, are awaiting information from the Welsh League Management Committee on the exact details of what informed their decision," said the BTSC in a statement.
"Once this information is received, the BTSC will take time to process its content before deciding upon its next steps."
Barry Town were a dominant force in Welsh football for many years, winning the Welsh Premier (formerly the League of Wales) title seven times between 1996 and 2003.
They went into administration in 2003 with debts of £1m but were saved in a rescue package by businessman Lovering. Relegation soon followed, though, and Lovering has attempted to sell the club since 2005.
A sale was thought to be close in 2010, but he has ultimately been unable to offload the club.
The BTSC's funding has stabilised the club over recent seasons but an uneasy relationship has persisted between them and Lovering.
Despite this, results have improved on the pitch and the club reached the semi-finals of the Welsh Cup this season before losing 2-1 to eventual winners Prestatyn Town. They were eighth in the Welsh League before Lovering's request to withdraw.
The move caused the postponed of last week's game with Ton Pentre at short notice, and a group of fans remained at Barry's Jenner Park home for 90 minutes to protest against owner Lovering.
In a statement, the Football Association of Wales said: "The Football Association of Wales recognises the proud history and tradition of the club and its contribution and success over the years.
"The Association also recognises the need for a football club in Barry and hopes that the Supporters Club can ensure that football will continue in the town."
