Harrow Borough FC supporters have expressed sadness and concern following confirmation that the club’s Earlsmead ground has been sold.
The Supporters Trust has now issued its own statement in response to the news, saying there are “mixed feelings” about the club leaving its long-time home.
The sale was confirmed by Harrow Borough’s board earlier this week. The club has said the proceeds will clear its debts and secure its future, with the team expected to ground-share elsewhere from the 2027/28 season.
Supporters Trust ‘extremely disappointed’
In a statement dated 9 September, the Harrow Borough Supporters Trust said: “As a trust, we have mixed feelings that we are leaving Earlsmead.
“The positive side is that there is finally some certainty on the future.
“However, we are extremely disappointed and frustrated with the outcome, and with the lack of communication and consultation from the board throughout the process, to us, supporters and members.”
The trust said it now wants to see more information about what comes next.
It added: “We look forward to seeing more detail on where this decision leaves the club going forward and plans for the long-term future.”
Despite its concerns, the group said it would continue supporting manager Wayne Carter, his staff and the players for the remainder of the club’s time at Earlsmead.
Residents react to sale
The announcement has also generated considerable reaction from Harrow Online readers, with many sharing memories of the club and raising concerns about what happens next.
One reader, Martin Hissey, said: “Hope the club can find another pitch to share. Not many left in Harrow!”
Roger Tomlinson wrote: “So, so sad. Spent many enjoyable times there. Goodbye old friend.”
Another reader, Alan Smith, recalled spending weekends at the social club and playing there, describing the news as “such a shame”.
Richard Mallen simply described it as a “sad day for grassroots football”.
Concerns over Harrow Borough’s long-term home
Several readers questioned whether ground-sharing would provide Harrow Borough with a secure long-term future.
Brian Hill wrote: “Sad news, and unless the club has concrete plans for a new stadium, this is unlikely to end well. My own club, Romford, sold our stadium in 1976 and still don’t have a home of our own.”
Gary Hills also expressed concern about future costs, saying ground-share fees, increased playing budgets and declining support could become a problem for the club.
Others questioned where Harrow Borough could realistically play.
David Englandskin asked: “Ground share? How many are in Harrow?”
The club has not yet announced where it intends to play once it leaves Earlsmead.
Memories of Earlsmead
For some, the announcement has brought back memories extending well beyond football.
Jackie Ripley said her father had once been chairman of the club and held a number of other roles, while her brother had also played for Harrow Borough.
She wrote: “Very sad to hear this. My father was chairman at one point and held many roles to support the club. Sadly, they couldn’t keep up under the financial pressures of the land and club facility. It’s a tough position.
“I hope Harrow Borough will go on to find a home and continue to play good football.”
Terry Mynors recalled playing gigs at the venue, describing them as “happy days” and the club as “great” and “friendly”.
Questions remain over the future of the site
A number of readers also speculated about what could eventually be built on the Earlsmead site, including housing.
However, no confirmed redevelopment plans have been announced as part of the club’s statement, and the sale of the ground does not by itself mean that housing or any other development has been approved.
Harrow Borough has played at Earlsmead since the 1930s and will remain there until the end of May 2027.
The board has said the sale will allow all of the club’s debts to be settled and leave money available to strengthen its finances and playing budget.
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Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
For news tips, press releases or enquiries, contact Chris at info@harrowonline.org.
