Clackmannanshire's politicians join calls for financial support for Alloa and Sauchie

Keith Brown and John Nicolson say they will work closely with Sauchie Juniors and Alloa Athletic to put forward their case to the Scottish and UK governments. 

It comes shortly after the brakes were put on plans to welcome supporters back to stadiums following a rise in Covid-19 cases across the country. 

Alloa chairman Mike Mulraney has since said it is "like telling a pub to open without customers", while Sauchie supremo Karl Rennie warned of the grave impact playing without crowds could have on the Clacks club. 

READ MORE: Alloa Athletic chairman Mike Mulraney wants to see fans in Recs

The Beechwood Park outfit have now called on the support of Mr Brown and Mr Nicolson, who both say they will call on financial support for the teams. 

Clackmannanshire and Dunblane MSP Brown said:  “I know the important role that clubs like Sauchie Juniors play in our local communities and when they reached out for support, I was happy to help.

Alloa chairman Mike Mulraney believes the club could host socially distanced fans

“It has been made very clear to me that financial support for clubs such as Sauchie Juniors is required and is required urgently. 

"There is a real risk that if this is not made available, we will see clubs across the country close permanently as recovering from the current situation, will simply not be possible for them.

Sauchie chairman Karl Rennie warned his club might not survive without fans

“I have written to the Scottish Government to seek assurances that the Scottish Government is actively looking at what supports can be provided and to seek an update on their discussions with the UK Government about a package of recovery for sport which is vital for clubs like Sauchie Juniors.”

While the situation is less grave for Alloa than their neighbours, Mulraney has still been clear a lack of supporters could have an impact on Scottish football clubs. 

Mr Nicolson, MP for Ochil and South Perthshire, added: "The reality is that the pandemic is accelerating and the absence of supporters is placing a significant financial burden on Scottish Junior clubs.

READ MORE: Sauchie Juniors chairman Karl Rennie warns club won't survive without fans

"I am hoping that supporters will be allowed back into venues as soon as it is safe to do so and I am working with the club to ensure support is offered to clubs to help them through this difficult period." 

If you would like to contact Clackmannanshire and Dunblane MSP Keith Brown to share your support for a return of fans to football grounds, you can do so here: 

Unit 4
Townhead Institute
39 Drysdale Street
Alloa
FK10 1JA

Keith.Brown.msp@parliament.scot 

To write to John Nicolson: 

38 Primrose Street
Alloa
Clackmannanshire
FK10 1JG

john.nicolson.mp@parliament.uk