Berwick Rangers to vote against proposal to extend participation of B teams in the Lowland League

In its statement, the club said: “The short time frame between the proposal reaching us and tonight’s vote has precluded us from undertaking any extended consultation with our fans. However, we have listened to your views on the participation of guest clubs – both in previous meetings and in the stands this season – and feel that voting against this proposal is the right thing to do, just as it was over the proposed Conference League in the summer.”

The plan proposes to extend the participation of B teams in the Bell Motors Lowland League for two more seasons, with the possibility of an extension into a third season.

The club says it will vote against the proposal as it wishes to compete in a league made up of teams that are there through merit.

Addressing the financial incentives for allowing B teams to compete in the league – they could pay a fee to take part – the statement says: “The long-term financial sustainability of the club, and of this level of football in general, cannot be based on relying on payments for the participation of B teams in the Lowland League.”

It goes on to say: “We are committed to being here for the long term through a community-focused approach to our operations and being a great day out for our supporters, while supporting a push for greater financial fair play regulation of the Lowland League.”