FTC deputy town clerk, Peter Wheelhouse, with Badgers Hill stadium manager Alex Silk and leader of FTC, Cllr Fiona Barrows

Frome Town FC take on lease of Badgers Hill ahead of new season

Paul JonesJuly 16, 20250 Comment0

BADGERS Hill and Frome Town FC have announced the completion of a new deal – but it is not a player transfer.

Instead, Frome Town Council (FTC) representatives were on the terraces to hand over the keys to the ground to new operator, Badgers Hill Ltd, after the two agreed a deal for a lease with an option to buy earlier this month.

The signing was of a tenancy at will agreement for Badgers Hill, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the site and Frome Town.

FTC purchased the site in 2022 to secure its long-term future as a space for community sport, and since, has raised funds to improve the ground.

It was recognised with a national award from the Football Supporters’ Association for its unprecedented commitment to safeguarding a community football ground.

On July 2, at a council meeting, members agreed to lease the site, with an option to buy, to Badgers Hill Ltd.

While the long-term lease is finalised, Badgers Hill Ltd and FTC have entered into a tenancy at will to allow preparations and use of the ground and facilities for the coming season.

The council will retain the freehold, but all other responsibilities will be transferred to Badgers Hill Ltd.

Courtney Fong, chair of Badgers Hill Ltd and Frome Town FC, previously said: “This is an exciting new start for the club and the wider community. I’m grateful to everyone who has stood by Badgers Hill Ltd and the football club during recent months, and I’m looking forward to working with fans, volunteers and local organisations to bring joy and unity back to Badgers Hill.

“Football should bring people together – and that’s our shared goal.”

Cllr Fiona Barrows, chair of FTC, added: “We are really pleased to be entering into this new partnership with Courtney, and to be handing over the keys today.

“Badgers Hill is an important community asset, and we know how much it means to local people. We hope this new beginning brings much-needed stability and gives the club the chance to thrive both on and off the pitch.”

Meanwhile, friendlies continue for Frome Town ahead of the new season, with fans able to catch them at Badgers Hill next on July 26, when the Robins take on Chippenham Town. For more details, and to buy tickets, visit www.weareba11.com/tickets.