It’s forever being beautiful and the colour’s white and blue….

How true does Mr Shankly’s quote seem after the demise of Stockport County FC and relegation to the Blue Square Premier League. (“Football’s not a matter of life or death. It’s much more important than that.” William Shankly OBE 1913-1981).  It will now feature in the 5th tier of English football and outside the mainstream professional football leagues. 

Spare a thought for Lincoln City FC that joined this downward tend after a defeat in its final game.  The feeling must be dreadful, as unlike “County” where the inevitable was likely for some time,  “Imps” had a horrendous end of season run of form that resulted in this downfall.

Social media is rife on explanation for the fall of Stockport County, a club that had been playing since 1883, but recent postings at Marion’s Board lays blame at the owner of the stadium and entrepreneur, Brian Kennedy of Sale Sharks; the existing Board of Directors and Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council for not helping further, including enabling an alternative ground.

Stockport County entered into administration on 30 April 2009 remaining so for 14 months.  Despite coming out for the 2010-2011 season the planning and financial performance appear to mirror the inept performances “on the park”.  We have more than a little inside knowledge on the background to the predicament.