AN amateur football league whose proud 98-year history has seen thousands of players take to the field is to close due to lack of teams.

The Accrington and District Combination has been running since 1918 and this season would have marked the 99th season.

However the league’s committee has made the decision to disband after just six teams expressed a desire to play in the upcoming season, which was due to begin in September.

In its heyday in the 1960s and 70s, the league, which plays games on Saturdays and attracts teams from the Hyndburn area and others from Burnley and Padiham, had five divisions and dozens of amateur clubs competing.

Teams played at various venues including King George playing field, Wilson’s playing field and Memorial Park.

Committee member Simon Cotton, 31, who plays for one of the sides, St Mary’s College Old Boys, said there were a variety of factors which led to the decision.

He said: “We’ve made a real effort to try and attract teams but there’s not enough interest to make it work at the moment.

“Many of the pubs that had football teams have shut and the maintenance of pitches has been cut leading to more postponements.

“Over the years the league has given pleasure to thousands of in Accrington and district.

“Many weren’t great players but loved playing the game every week.

“Some of the committee have been involved as players and officials for more than 55 years.

“We’re not going to give up and we will see if we can generate enough interest over the coming months for a re-launch.

“This year the existing committee has been bolstered by three new members, all of whom play for teams within the league and we’ve improved the website and social media.”

To get involved email accycombination@gmail.com.