Hamworthy United Football Club has announced that it will be sharing a ground with Weymouth Football Club for the start of the 2023-24 football season. The decision comes after Hamworthy’s County Ground home was threatened with demotion to lower tiers due to ground grading regulations.
The main stand of the County Ground had been condemned by landlords Dorset County FA, forcing Hamworthy to find alternative means to meet ground grading requirements. While the club staged its playoff against Evesham United at Dorchester Town’s Avenue Stadium, the temporary arrangement proved unfeasible in the long term.
Hamworthy was able to raise £4,484 via a fundraising campaign for a new stand, but the target is set at £15,000. In a statement posted on the club’s website, Weymouth Football Club’s Board of Directors agreed to offer a short-term ground-share option. This would enable Hamworthy to stay on at Step 4 in the National League System, while work is done to install their new stand at The County Ground.
Hamworthy Chairman Steve Mitchener expressed his gratitude to the Weymouth Football Club, particularly Chairman Paul Maitland, for their unwavering support during a difficult time. Paul Maitland, Weymouth’s Chairman, commented that they understood the position Hamworthy was in, and had to offer their support.
He added that they felt compelled to step in, given they faced the same predicament less than a year ago. The Terras had to rely on goodwill from other clubs to keep going. Now, they are happy to offer help and support to other local sides.
