RYHOPE CW have resigned from the Northern League, citing a lack of volunteer support as their motivation for dropping down to a lower level.

Despite having won the 2021-22 Durham FA Challenge Cup, and finished in fifth position in the final First Division table, Ryhope have informed Northern League officials they will not be part of the competition next season.

A club statement said: “It is with deep regret and great sadness that we have advised the Ebac Northern League that Ryhope CW FC wish to tender their resignation from the Northern League.

“This is obviously not a decision that has been taken lightly but is the consequence, in the main, of the lack of volunteer support for our club playing at the level we are at on the field coupled with the ongoing demands of the league standards required off the field.

“The club needs to restructure to continue its long history, but we recognise this must be done at a lower level to enable it to grow again with fresh impetus, leadership and firm foundations.

“We are deeply saddened to be left with what we see as our only viable option for Ryhope CW FC to continue.”

A spokesperson for the Northern League said: “We can confirm that we have received Ryhope CW’s resignation from the league.

“We are consulting with the FA about the effects of this decision so can’t comment further at this stage. We are sorry to receive the resignation and wish the club all the best for the future.”