AS you will no doubt be well aware, Barrow AFC sit top of the Vanarama National League at this conclusion of the league. You may also be aware that in 1972, after a vote of member clubs, Barrow AFC were relegated from the Football League, despite finishing clear of the relegation places.

While I accept that we are in unprecedented times, it would appear that fate has come around and the time is right for Barrow AFC to be reinstated back into the Football League by way of promotion from the National League.

It is regrettable that such a proud, historic football club as Bury Football Club was wound up and removed from your league earlier this season. But with that in mind it would make perfect sense for Barrow AFC to now take their rightful place back in the Football League, taking Bury’s place.

The consequences of the decision made by the Football League could change the face of our town for generations. The club is owned and run by local people and its supporters. They have been working tirelessly on and off the field to develop and grow their Performance Centre, and the match day experience for supporters, guests, visiting teams, officials and staff. On the field, Ian Evatt and his team have transformed Barrow AFC into a team which is regarded as the best this town has seen for more than 50 years.

Barrow-in-Furness has a team and a football club of which it is very proud. To have Football League football back in our town will have significant benefits. The club, and our town, won’t let you down.

I am asking for the English Football League to do the right thing and to permit Barrow AFC to be promoted back for the 2020/21 season, where they belong.

Simon Fell

MP, Barrow in Furness

(Letter to the English Football League)