DRIMPTON’S highly successful three-year journey has ended after club chiefs confirmed the difficult decision to fold the club.

The Greens have been on a remarkable rise since reforming in 2020, winning a hat-trick of promotions to reach the Perry Street & District League Premier Division. 

Drimpton also won the Jack Venn Cup in 2021/22 to add to their list of achievements.

Last season the club were forced to deny rumours of a mid-season fold, before finishing second in Division One behind South Petherton Reserves.

READ MORE: Drimpton lose Arthur Gage Cup final

However, player recruitment has been identified as a major factor in the decision to fold the club, with players leaving and a shortage of new blood coming in.

Greens’ manager Andy Loudon was forced once more to address gossip surrounding the club, this time that his squad did not fancy the step up in difficulty.

He told the Bridport News: “It is never easy to make a decision like this as you feel responsible for so many people, but we just didn't have the numbers this season.

“We were short last season but managed to finish the season. But with the challenge of being in the Premier we couldn’t just get by.

“I honestly thought that being in the top division would be a carrot dangled and we would attract players.

“I have heard rumours going around that we were scared of playing in the Premier, which is a ridiculous comment.

“The players who committed to the club this season were all up for the challenge, to say they weren't is just being disrespectful.”

But Loudon’s Drimpton experience ends on a high and the outgoing boss thanked all connected to the club for their efforts in a memorable three years.

He added: “We have had some great players over the three-year period, players who wanted to play for this great little club. We have also given football to some youngsters who will now go on with some experience and improve elsewhere.

“I would like to go on record of thanking each and every one of the players, management and helpers who have contributed in any way to the short success of our short time at this wonderful football club.

“I would like to personally thank David Symonds. We have been a double act for many years now in Perry Street football and I couldn't do without his help and support.

“Also, Nick Record who travelled from Yeovil every Saturday to run the lines. He is without a doubt the best and fairest lineman in the league and should have got more recognition for it in my opinion.

“It is now time for some valuable family time on Saturdays, that is until the wife kicks me out of the house!"

Drimpton's fold means the club's final competitive match proved to be the 5-2 win over Shepton Beauchamp Reserves.

Their absence from the Premier Division also leaves just ten teams remaining ahead of the new league season on Saturday, September 2.