THE OWNER of Rossendale United has put the football club up for sale but has vowed he will only sell it to a ‘forward thinking investor.’ Andrew Connolly’s 10 years at the Curzon helm are seemingly over after the 47-year-old put the club on the market this week.

During the past two years the club has been run by volunteers under Steve Hobson, chairman of Rossendale United, but Connolly believes the time is right for new blood to steer the Valley football team.

Mr Hobson said he was 100 per cent behind the owner’s decision.

He said: “To be honest I am absolutely delighted with the news because it’s testament to how hard we have worked to get the club back on the straight and narrow.

“The owner wants to sell to someone who can take the club forward as a going concern.

“There are so many football clubs that are in bankruptcy and have to go to the High Court because of financial problems.

“Any investor who wants to come here can invest straight into the club and not worry about any debts, because it’s all paid off.”

Despite clearing club debt and redecorating the venue, Rossendale United are currently sitting rock bottom of the Unibond First Division North league.

The club usually hosts around 100 fans at every home game and bosses said they were excited about the future of football in Dark Lane.

Mr Connolly said: “In no way is this sale bad news for the people of Rossendale.

“Last week we took on a new commercial manager and he has already bagged three sponsors for the club.

“We can look forward to the club being strengthened and with new investment from the right person, we can have more success.”