A PARISH council that evicted a football club from its home of more than 100 years has pledged the game will continue to be played on the grounds.

But the future of Horden Colliery Welfare FC, who were forced to leave Welfare Park in Horden, east Durham, remains in doubt after council chiefs said they are taking expressions of interest from several teams.

The club played its last game there on Saturday, February, 20, when the team beat Jarrow FC 3-1 in a Wearside League match.

Former committee members lost a court case with Horden Parish Council, which owns the ground, and were served with an eviction notice. A new committee handed over the keys last Thursday.

A statement issued by the council today (Wednesday, March 2), said: "Horden Parish Council, acting as sole trustee of the charitable trust known as Horden Recreation Ground, are determined to maintain and preserve the playing of football on the prestigious football ground situated in the Welfare Park.

"Vacant possession of the football ground and grandstand was given on Thursday, February 25.

"This was in accordance with the County Court Judgement made on January 29.

"The trustee confirms that it is determined to support and safeguard the playing of football in Horden.

"It has been approached by several local football teams who are keen to use the extensive ground and facilities.

"Long-term plans for the future use of the football pitch will be decided by the trustee, Horden Parish Council, once all expressions of interest have been duly considered."

The club’s new secretary Graeme Wetherell said: “They are saying there is definitely going to be football, but not saying it’s going to be Horden CW. It could be a Sunday morning pub team.

“We have called an emergency meeting tonight (Wednesday) to discuss our next move.”

Mr Wetherell said the club could still face extinction if it could not complete its remaining home fixtures.