Barton Town FC and Barton Inclusive FC to join forces

A joint statement from the Chairman of Barton Town FC Mark Gregory and Barton Inclusive FC Chairwoman Sophie Bartup:

We are delighted to let the world know that Barton Town FC and Barton Inclusive FC have been collaborating to formalise our partnership, shared outcomes and vision for the future of football within Barton-upon-Humber and the surrounding area. Since the inception of BIFC in 2019, Barton Town FC have supported them in their efforts to grow their club; of which they are the current Lincolnshire FA ‘Club of the Year’ holders. As two clubs, we have a very strong and positive partnership however we believe officially joining forces as one club will have a greater impact on our players, and within our community. Essentially, we will be able to offer football provision to the majority of the community, all within one club.

Here is what Sophie Bartup had to say:

“I am immensely proud of what we have achieved as BIFC so far, it’s quite phenomenal and to be recognised as the Lincolnshire FA ‘Club of the Year’ is a testament to the incredible volunteers we have. As a club, although we are small, our ambitious are big and I know partnering with BTFC will empower us to develop even further. We already have a strong and positive relationship with BTFC and we look forward to our future, and the positive impact we can continue to have within our community.”

And here’s what Mark Gregory has to say:

 “I’m delighted to welcome Barton Inclusive FC into the Barton Town family. We’ve watched them grow and flourish over the past couple of years and we’re excited to welcome them aboard. When I took over as Chairman at the club five years ago, my vision for the club was to be for everyone in the town and surrounding areas regardless of ability to be able to enjoy football. ‘One Town, One Club.’ Having spoken with Sophie and other members of BIFC, I can see that they share my vision, and I believe that together going forward, this partnership can help the town become a hub for football and make it accessible for all. They have fantastic support in their volunteer’s and players and will be joining a team of already committed and fantastic volunteers here also. Thier drive and passion is shared with our own drive and passion and this merger can only go from strength to strength.“

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Barton Town FC have a first team and reserve team, in addition to their youth teams. BIFC brings with them two adult teams who currently play in the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League, a thriving Wildcats group, and two growing walking football teams. In addition to this, BIFC have also recently expanded into Hull as part of their Inclusion agenda.

To begin with, both clubs will enter into a transition period for the 2021/22  season as to ensure all the complexities are sufficiently addressed and to ensure everyone involved has a voice.

We look forward to the journey ahead.

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