Short and sweet this time as Chudleigh say farewell again

League sorry to see them go along with Offwell, Uplowman, Dawlish 3rds and Otterys Development XI

The news that Chudleigh Athletic football club have decided to withdraw their Development team from Division 9 of the Joma Devon & Exeter League has come as a big disappointment. It comes on the back of withdrawals by Offwell Rangers, Uplowman Athletic, Dawlish United 3rds and Ottery St Mary’s Development team.

Chudleigh were welcomed in this season after a gap of almost 60 years. Prior to that they had spent around a third of their existence as members of the East Devon/Exeter & District League since the club formed in 1907. In those years it was the Chudleigh first team, and their latest action comes on the back of the their decision a few weeks ago to withdraw their main team from the Devon Football League.

Chudleigh will still function with two teams in the South Devon League which has been their base since they left us in 1964, and hopefully they will at least continue to thrive and prosper again.
The club officers have expressed their bitter disappointment at their decision to withdraw, but said they were left with little choice. There are many reasons for this latest move, and they have notified the D & E League to explain their predicament. I know everyone wishes the club all the best and one day we may welcome them back as part of our organisation.

Offwell have been with the League since the mid 50s apart from a couple of gaps for various reasons, and the club are devastated at having to take this decision. They have similarity with Uplowman whose history is a bit shorter, but both teams are very dismayed that they are unable to carry on. Hopefully it is short term, and again the League wishes both clubs all the best and maybe a swift return.

Friday 1st October 2021