AFC Fylde disband Fylde Women team due to coronavirus

They are believed to be the first team from the professional or semi-professional women's game in England to fold because of the Covid-19 crisis.

Fylde were ninth in their 12-team competition when the season was abandoned last month and their league declared null and void.

The team, which changed its name from Fylde Ladies to Fylde Women at the start of the season, had formed in 2016 when the Preston North End women's team moved to Mill Farm and was rebranded.

This announcement by AFC Fylde follows a decision by owner David Haythornthwaite to reduce his investment in the club by around 50 per cent due to the current crisis.

A club statement by chief executive Jonty Castle reads: "With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic across the world, I feel it is right that we offer the most transparent and clearest communication possible with regards to our current position.

"I have had in-depth discussions with chairman David Haythornthwaite and we recognise that as a community-based football club AFC Fylde always wanted to operate a Women’s team.

"The Women’s team, led by manager Conrad Prendergast, has been a credit to the football club and the local area.

"However, due to the current and ongoing fluid situation regarding the Covid-19 virus, the chairman has had to take the tough decision to disband the Women’s team in its current format.

"We have spoken with Conrad and he is aware of the plans we have put in place and we thank him for his understanding at this difficult and uncertain time.

"We wholeheartedly understand and accept this is not the news anyone wanted to give or to receive, and everyone at the club would like to offer our best wishes to all current players and staff for their future careers.

"I sincerely hope that all supporters, both of the men’s and women’s team, along with all your families are keeping safe and well at this difficult time."