VALE of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies has vowed to “do all he can” to help a new football club form in Rhyl.

The original Rhyl FC club, founded in 1878, have begun the process of a formal winding-up order following a decision by the board of directors to cease all activity.

In a statement on Tuesday, April 22, the club blamed the shutdown on "the unprecedented impact of COVID-19, the unwillingness of the ground's owner to consider either a long lease or sale on market terms and the ongoing fixed costs with no income prospects”.

The MP has already contacted the current board of directors regarding the possibility of a new phoenix club, and has offered his assistance in whatever way possible in order to get the proposal off the ground.

Dr Davies said: “It has been an extremely sad week for the club, its supporters and the town as a whole. My heart goes out to the board of directors, and all others involved, who I know have been doing their utmost in recent weeks to try to prevent this outcome.

“I have been in touch with the club to offer my full support. I know they are looking into the possibility of establishing a new ‘phoenix’ club and I have assured them I will do all I can to assist them if this is the route they decide to take.

“Rhyl Football Club is much loved and has been well supported throughout its 141 years of existence at the centre of the local community, and the Belle Vue ground has been an important hub for the town, particularly for our local children and young people. I hope it can be preserved for that use.

“Sport in the community is vital and with all the support it has behind it, I am confident the club will come back. In the meantime, I wish to thank all those who have been involved in the club’s history and making it the great success it has been.”