City put entire squad on list.

Byline: Steve Brown 

DURHAM CITY have put their entire squad on the transfer list after the Football Conference's decision to refuse them entry to Blue Square North should they win promotion next season led to the club's major backer withdrawing his support.

The Conference Board have told City their artificial 3G playing surface would not be permitted, should they end the current UniBond Premier campaign in a position to go up. As a result, principal sponsor Trevor Cartner has pulled out. He was thought to be prepared to back Durham on the proviso that they could continue to climb the league pyramid.

City chairman Stewart Dawson said: "This is hugely disappointing news for everyone connected to Durham City Football Club.

"The recent success of back-toback promotions has indicated the very positive management team involved at the club. All board members have worked tirelessly in recent years on raising the profile of the club, which has paid dividends with huge success on the pitch.

"We are a club that always prides ourselves on excellent housekeeping and working within set budgets and, in recent years, have spent substantial six-figure sums in efforts to climb through the football pyramid system.

"To lose our major sponsor in the new season's infancy means that we will not be able to continue to sustain the club's budgets that were set prior to season commencing, and continue at the level of football we are currently in.

"The board, therefore, feel we have no alternative other than to allow players to leave and, as a consequence, all players are available for transfer with immediate effect. This will allow them to continue playing at the highest level.

"We intend to fulfil our remaining fixtures this season, our first season in the UniBond Premier League, and will endeavour to compete within the higher tier to the best of our ability. Any local players who may be interested in joining the club will be made most welcome.

"The club would like to thank supporters who have been part of the success in recent years. The gates have increased significantly over the last two years and we would like to thank our local business sponsors, including Esh Group, Giles Insurance and Ramside Hall for their continued support.

"The club sends a plea to the local businesses and community to rally round and support the city's club and any interest will be gratefully received."

Supporters were holding a meeting last night, while manager Lee Collings - who has vowed to stay on at the club - was holding another with his playing staff.