I'LL MAKE OUR GAME THRIVE!

SIR KEIR STARMER has vowed to make sure NonLeague football 'thrives' if he ever becomes Prime Minister.

- Jon Couch

The Labour Party leader spoke exclusively to The NonLeague Paper on Tuesday while on a visit to AFC Rushden & Diamonds in the run-up to the Wellingborough by-election.

Sir Keir is a season ticket holder at Arsenal but has played football himself since the age of 10 including for north London side Homerton Academicals developing a strong passion for the NonLeague and grass-roots game along the way.

Back in November, it was announced as part of the King's speech that the government was to put a football governance bill before parliament, confirming the legislation that will create an independent regulator for the game, two years on from the landmark publication of the fan-led review of football governance.

In his address to Parliament, King Charles said: "Legislation will be brought forward to safeguard the future of football clubs for the benefit of communities and fans." The legislation comes at a crucial time for the NonLeague game with clubs continuing to struggle to stay afloat. This season alone, Hednesford Town and, more controversially, Southend United had to be rescued at the last minute, while Hamworthy United, East Thurrock United, Marske United and Nuneaton Borough were all forced to resign from their respective leagues.