Liquidised – East Thurrock United (Photo by East Thurrock United)
In a sad state of affairs at Rookery Hill, East Thurrock United have been placed into liquidation.
As confirmed by a club statement this morning by Chairman Steve Wiseman, he stated that ‘the first-team would no longer be able to function in its current capacity.’
They were plying their trade in the Isthmian North Division but their 54-year existence comes to an end. They picked up four points from their first three league matches.
The Rocks were in the Vanarama National League South as recently as the 2018/19 campaign and in the same season, they lifted the BBC Essex Senior Cup with a 3-1 victory over Chelmsford City.
On Sunday, an emergency meeting took place about the club’s future and it was advised that they were to be placed into liquidation.
Wiseman explained why the first-team weren’t able to continue.
‘The club director made this decision due to historical debts accrued by the club prior to the new owners taking control, whilst I am absolutely devastated by this as we have no control.’
Despite the first-team being affected by this decision, the over 300 children under the East Thurrock umbrella will continue to play.
He said: ‘We are delighted and relieved that the director has agreed that the youth teams with over 300 children currently playing under the East Thurrock name, and Basildon Town, can continue playing at the as they have been for the foreseeable future.
‘These children are the backbone and future of this great club.’
The club was bought by multi-millionaire Alfie Best who promised grand plans which included building a new stadium, but this didn’t come to fruition.
Wiseman took over the club last season and said ‘historical debts’ from their previous ownership is the reason for their liquidation.
He concluded his statement but giving thanks to their loyal supporters as well as manager Steve Butterworth and his management team.
‘I would also like to express my thanks to Steve Butterworth and his management team who have been outstanding since taking over last season, they had started to build what looked a very promising side and a delight to watch.
‘My final thank you is to the fans. You have been the heartbeat of this great club for years, and I am sorry we were unable to do more to keep this great club.’
The Rocks groundshare with Thurlow Nunn League South side Basildon Town and this partnership will remain.
A historic local side’s existence comes to an end in a devasting decision for all involved at the club and in the local community.
