FURTHER delays in work starting on Newport FC's proposed new stadium, the club has been handed the lifeline of another groundshare deal with fellow Isle of Wight Wessex League club, East Cowes Vics.
The agreement, between Vics chairman Mark Greenslade and Newport chairman Peter Westhorpe, would see the yellows play their home games at Beatrice Avenue for the first time in two seasons.
Newport spent two successful seasons at Smallbrook Stadium, but an extension to the deal to stay there while work on the proposed new ground near Whippingham has continued to stall, fell through.
However, East Cowes Vics have stepped in to give Port a lifeline by agreeing to a renewed groundshare deal.
Newport had a previous groundshare arrangement with Vics between April 2019 and May 2021.
In a statement on Newport's website, it reads: "This is a massive boost to our dedicated team of players, managers and volunteers — all of whom give their time for free to support our club every year.
"First team manager, Steve Brougham, is really positive about the move and is looking forward to the new season starting.
"He has also confirmed that Newport will have a reserve side next year, managed by Stuart Shepherd, which is fantastic news for the club.
"All of us connected with Newport are looking forward and are ready to give our all again next season."
Vics chairman, Mark, said on the club's website: "We couldn't stand by and let Newport be forced to leave the Wessex League or worse, fold, prior to their new stadium being built, so we offered them an olive branch to groundshare for the coming season, which has been agreed.
"It has obvious benefits for Newport, but it also really helps us move some of our long-term plans for improving all aspects of East Cowes Vics in a much quicker timescale.’’
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