Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is among 57,000 people to call on Barnet Council to do its utmost to keep Barnet FC in the borough.

The title-winning Frenchman from Totteridge was among football fans across the country, including Brentford chairman Ron Noades, who signed the petition which was accepted by council leader Alan Williams at Hendon Town Hall on Tuesday.

Barnet FC is seeking planning approval for its scheme for a 10,000 capacity stadium, south of the present site at Underhill, Barnet Lane. Even if it wins promotion, Barnet will not be allowed to rejoin the Football League because its existing Underhill stadium does not meet requirements for a minimum 6,000 capacity and all Football League teams will eventually require a 10,000 capacity.

Michael Edwards, a former chairman of the Keep Barnet Alive fans organisation, said: "The 57,000 people who have signed our petition are looking to Barnet Council to help bring about a solution to our situation.

"Barnet Council has the power to help keep the club in the borough. They have a much larger and longer role to play in bringing about a solution."

Mr Williams said: "I think it is tremendous that they are able to attract that much support from across the football fraternity, and it shows clearly the strength of feeling that exists in football, that football clubs should stay in their roots.

"Subject to planning issues being resolved, I am very confident that Barnet Football Club will get its approval, then it is up to Mr Tony Kleanthous Barnet FC chairman."

November 21, 2001 11:50

JOHN POLLARD