An Isle of Wight football team has stated it is “heartbroken” to announce the club has folded following off-the-pitch troubles.

Finishing on 34 points after 14 games, with just two defeats, AFC Wootton gained promotion to the top flight of Island League football last season. 

However, the start of the 2024/25 season has been a nightmare for the club after cancelling their first two league fixtures.

After the first match of the season was cancelled, away at Vectis, the club told its social media following it was not folding, despite speculation, and that the team is aiming to give Division 1 ‘a good shot this season’.

The Wootton club were expected to kick off its revised league opener yesterday (Saturday, August 17) but was forced to cancel on Thursday.

AFC Wootton said it had lost a substantial number of players in pre-season, and a lot of players are unavailable due to holidays, work and summer sports.

The management admitted that the club was ‘having some serious issues’ and, although previously stating that it was not folding, conversations were being had regarding the possibility.

Sadly, it has now been confirmed that the club has folded.

A spokesperson for AFC Wootton said: “It is with great sadness that we inform you that the club has unfortunately folded.

“Due to a lack of available players and the increase in costings, this decision has been made.

“We would like to thank every single person who has pulled on a shirt for us, all those who have helped the club over the years and to every sponsor who has helped us.

“So many people have given their precious time to this club, and we are heartbroken that this has happened.

“We want to wish all those clubs still going all the best for this season and a thank you to them for all the battles.”