ONE OF the Isle of Wight's most prominent women's football clubs has folded.

Cowes Sports Ladies Football Club made the announcement this afternoon (Wednesday) after what has been described as a "tough period" for the Island club, who were playing in Division 2 of the Hampshire Women's League.

The club suffered a number of heavy defeats before a long string of postponements. 

In their statement on the club's Facebook page, they posted: "It's with a heavy heart that we have to announce this, but Cowes Sports Ladies FC are having to pull out the league and fold as a club.

"We can't thank the ladies enough for their continued efforts through this tough period, and to all the staff and volunteers for all your help.

"And finally, a massive thank you to all the ladies who have played for Cowes through the years. We wish everyone the best."

Cowes Sports Ladies, established as Cowes Ladies in January 2017, joined the Yachtsmen in 2020 to help develop women's football on Island.

The club started out playing on public and community pitches around Cowes.