End of the road for VCD Athletic After 110 Years At Oakwood

The Southern Counties East Football League is saddened to learn that VCD Athletic have ceased operations, bringing to an end more than a century of football history in Crayford.

The Vickers, established in 1916, confirmed that it would cease operations from 17th May 2026 after being unable to secure a lease to remain at their historic Oakwood home.

VCD Athletic had been due to return to the SCEFL Premier Division for the 2026/27 season following their relegation from the Isthmian League last month. Instead, one of the league’s most familiar and respected names has been lost from the non-league football landscape.

In a statement released by Chairman Gary Rump, the club explained that the decision had not been made lightly. Following a change in ownership of the Oakwood Ground, VCD Athletic were not offered a new lease and, despite what the club described as sustained efforts to engage in discussions and find a solution, no agreement could be reached.

The statement said that without a lease and with no alternative resolution available, the continuation of the club was no longer viable.

VCD Athletic’s connection to Oakwood stretched back to the club’s formation in 1916. Over the course of 110 years, the club became a cornerstone of the local community, producing countless memories for players, supporters, volunteers and generations of families who followed the Vickers.

There had been hopes in recent weeks that a solution could be found. Local MP Daniel Francis became involved in discussions after the club sought assistance in securing an extension to their lease. The MP revealed that he had met representatives from both VCD Athletic and Oakwood Pavilion Limited in April in an attempt to bring the parties together.

While initial discussions appeared encouraging, Francis expressed his disappointment that an agreement could not ultimately be reached. He also confirmed that the Oakwood site remains designated as Metropolitan Open Land, carrying protections similar to Green Belt status, and stated that any future proposals for the site would be subject to consultation with the local community.

Reacting to the news, Francis described the closure as the loss of “a key piece of Crayford’s heritage”, highlighting the important role the club had played both locally and across the wider football community.

VCD Athletic’s departure marks the end of a long association with SCEFL and Kent League competition. The Vickers were members of the league for many years, off and on as they regularly played their football here and in the Isthmian League.

The SCEFL extends its condolences to everyone connected with VCD Athletic. From players and management to volunteers, supporters and committee members past and present, the club’s contribution to football in Kent and South East London will not be forgotten.

While the club’s future on the pitch has come to an end, its place in local football history is secure. After 110 years, VCD Athletic leave behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.