Troubled Barnet suffered another blow when their hopes of a ground-share with Third Division Leyton Orient at Brisbane Road were rejected unanimously by the Conference board.

The Bees had hoped that the move would provide a short-term solution to their ongoing stadium problem, and give the team something to play for following the news that there would be no promotion due to Underhill not meeting the requirement of a 6,000 capacity.

The ground-share was turned down because Barnet did not have any concrete plans in place for Underhill.

Also, the club's conurbation is deemed to be in Hertfordshire. This means it could not relocate to Orient as it would mean moving out of the county.

Disappointed Barnet chairman Tony Kleanthous said he could understand the board's position.

Barnet's PR consultant Dennis Signy said: "There is no choice but to play at Underhill, even though we cannot gain promotion or even compete in the play-offs without the prospect of a Grade A ground with a 6,000 minimum capacity."

The Bees head coach Peter Shreeves was also informed of the Conference's decision and has promised to motivate the players to achieve a promotion challenge, while Mr Kleanthous continues to fight for planning permission.

July 10, 2002 16:00