Biggleswade
will become the Eyrie’s new tenants, sharing the ground for all competitive
fixtures starting from July 2021.
Biggleswade
have decided to look for an alternative home, following their decision not to
renew their agreement with Southern Premier Division Central neighbours
Biggleswade Town.
The
Executive Committee at Bedford Town are delighted that Biggleswade have
approached the club about sharing its facilities, and in turn are pleased to
help them whilst they build foundations for their future.
The
agreement for sharing the Eyrie will come in time for the start of the 2021/22
season and is subject to approval from the Southern League.
Biggleswade
are currently in the process of finding a new permanent home, and it is hoped
by both clubs that this arrangement will be in place for a limited number of
seasons whilst work is completed on a new ground.
Both
clubs are focused on providing a facility and offer of sport that all residents
of North Bedfordshire will be able to enjoy on a regular basis. With both the
Eagles and the Greens playing Step 4 football, there will now be games to enjoy
at the Eyrie each weekend and most midweeks.
Practically,
the Eagles will continue to have priority on all cup fixtures and midweek games
will remain on a Tuesday evening. Biggleswade’s games will take place on a
Wednesday for midweek fixtures.
The
Eyrie will also continue to offer Sunday football, with Bedford Ladies
continuing their games at the ground. These three teams will be the only
primary regular users of the Eyrie from now on.
Speaking
on the new partnership, Bedford Town director Jon Taylor said: “This is an
extremely positive news story for both clubs. Biggleswade FC are in the process
of developing the future of their club, and I’m delighted that we are able to
help them out. In return, the Eyrie will now be hosting a football fixture
every Saturday meaning more use of our great facility and more opportunity for
supporters of both clubs to enjoy football, should they not wish to travel to
away games for either club.”
Biggleswade
chairman Jeremy Reynolds added: “We are very pleased to be working alongside
Bedford Town in this exciting new chapter for us at Biggleswade FC. Our
commitment to the community of Biggleswade remains as strong as ever and we
will continue to play an active and engaging role whilst continuing our journey
outside of town for the short-term.
“It
is our long-term ambition to deliver a thriving and community-focused facility
of our own as soon as the opportunity allows, but until then we are very
grateful to Bedford Town for their support and we, along with all our club
members, can look forward to using the excellent facilities on offer at the
Eyrie when football is cleared to return”. |