Silksworth CW confirm 'difficult decision' to resign from Wearside League

There was a further blow for non-league football in Sunderland after Silksworth CW confirmed they had resigned from the Wearside League just weeks before the new season was due to get underway.

The sad news comes just months after Sunderland West End resigned from the Northern League and Farringdon Detached ended their time as a Wearside League club and those decisions mean Sunderland RCA are now the only club within the city plying their trade in the top six levels of the non-league game. Silksworth have just enjoyed the most successful period in their history after they lifted the Durham Trophy, Monkwearmouth Charity Cup and Shipowners Charity Cup over the last 12 years and secured their highest ever league finish by claiming third place in the Wearside League’s top tier during the 2024/25 season.

However, increasing financial pressures, difficulty in attracting support and volunteers and challenges with their home ground have forced the club’s committee to take the ‘difficult decision’ to resign from the Wearside League.

A club statement released on Sunday read: “It is with deep regret that Silksworth CW announces its resignation from the Wearside League with immediate effect. As a result, the club will no longer have an adult team representing it. This difficult decision has been reached following careful consideration of a number of factors. Ultimately, the reality is that, as a club, we are no longer able to compete financially with other clubs in the league.

“We have always taken great pride in the fact that the players and staff who have represented Silksworth CW over the years have done so on a voluntary basis. Our achievements have been built on grit, determination and togetherness, and we will be forever grateful for that commitment. While the club remains in a sound financial position to cover its operational costs, it has become increasingly difficult to attract players who are able to commit to playing purely for the enjoyment of the game. Off the field, support has also become increasingly challenging. A lack of matchday volunteers has made it more difficult to operate effectively, while the club’s ground facilities have also limited our ability to progress further within the football pyramid.”

Memories

The club also went on to thank the players, staff, volunteers and sponsors that have played a part in their recent history and described the news as ‘undoubtedly a sad day for local football in Sunderland’.

“We would like to thank every person who has played their part in creating memories and making Silksworth CW such a special club. To the players, staff, volunteers and the wider Silksworth community, your efforts have been outstanding, and we will be forever grateful for your support.We would also like to express our sincere thanks to all of our sponsors who have supported us over the years, especially True Roof, Donkin’s, Pfendt DIY, YAP and, more recently, Persimmon Homes.

“While this is undoubtedly a sad day for local football in Sunderland, and Silksworth in particular, we should look back with pride on everything that has been achieved over the years. For now, this may be the end of this chapter, but the badge will live on forever.”

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