Football

Tier 2 champions Holywell Town are refused FAW licence to defend Cymru North title

Holywell Town celebrate winning the Cymru North title last month. Will they be allowed to defend their crown in 2024-25?

Reigning Cymru North champions Holywell Town could be denied the chance to defend their title next season after being refused a Tier 2 licence.

FAW Tier 2 Licensing is a mandatory requirement for clubs to participate at the second-tier of the Welsh football pyramid for the 2024/25 season.

Holywell, who landed their first-ever Cymru North title last month, were unable to take promotion to the Cymru Premier after failing to secure a Tier 1 licence. Runners-up Flint Town United will go up instead.

Today, the FAW announced that the Wellmen’s first application for a Tier 2 licence has been refused. The Flintshire club has 10 days in which to appeal. Holywell have been approached for comment.

There was also a blow for Llay Welfare, who are hoping to earn promotion to the Cymru North for the first time.

Currently in Tier 3 Ardal North West and with a big chance of a top-two finish, the Wrexham area side have had their Tier 2 licence request turned down at the first attempt. The club has confirmed it will appeal.

The FAW Men’s Tier 2 First Instance Body met today and yesterday to consider the Tier 2 Licensing Applications for the 2024/25 season.

The Panel reviewed 69 applicants and clubs were assessed against a number of infrastructure, personnel, legal and financial criteria.

The independent First Instance Body decided on the following:

NORTH WALES

Existing Tier 2 Clubs reapplying for Tier 2 licence

Granted (13)

Airbus UK Broughton
Bangor 1876
Buckley Town
Caersws
Denbigh Town
Flint Town United
Gresford Athletic
Guilsfield
Llandudno
Mold Alexandra
Porthmadog
Prestatyn Town
Ruthin Town

Refused (2)
Holywell Town
Llanidloes Town

Withdrew (1)
Chirk AAA