MANAGER Gary Kirk has issued a passionate appeal to safeguard the future of Clacton Cricket Club.

The long-serving stalwart admits his club’s future is on the line, having recently pulled out of the Gibbs Denley East Anglian Premier League after a financial settlement with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs.

Although there is no suggestion of wrongdoing, Clacton were hit with a bill which could have run to £10,000.

Instead, they reached a settlement but, as a result, say they cannot meet their financial obligations to play in the Premier League in 2014.

Kirk says the situation has been “devastating”, but insists his club will come back fighting by putting an even heavier emphasis on youth development.

For the full story, see this week's Gazette.