The future of one of Shropshire’s most established football league is in “serious doubt”, writes JAMES GARRISON.

Officials at the Wem Sunday League fear they may be forced to fold after 38 years due to a declining numbers of teams.

The league operated one division with eight teams last season, a far cry from the halcyon years of the early 1990s when three divisions – incorporating 36 teams – were in operation.

And an even grimmer picture was painted at the annual general meeting.

League runners-up and treble winners Oswestry Bell – who were successful in the Management Shield, Divisional Cup and League Cup last season – have resigned because they couldn’t find anyone to run the team.

And two other teams, FC Fitz and Prees, were both absent from the meeting.

“The League ran last season with one division of eight teams,” said secretary Roger Candlin.

“But with the loss of the Bell and doubts overt th other two, the very existence of the Wem Sunday League is in serious doubt.”

Officials have put the decreasing numbers down to a national decline in 11-a-side football and for retiring players not continuing in the game after their playing days to help run teams.

Anyone interested in entering a team should contact Roger Candlin on 01691-652609.