A Gwent football club has made the ‘heart-breaking’ decision to close after 108 years with ‘immediate effect.’

Ynysddu Welfare FC based in Pontllanfraith, Blackwood were founded in 1915 and play in the Gwent County Division 1 & North Gwent Premier League.

In an official club statement issued today Ynysddu Welfare FC said they ‘have struggled for a while’ and thanked those involved with the club over the years.

The football club said they ‘have a reached a stage where we can no longer continue.’

The official club statement said: “It’s with great sadness that we inform you that the club will be coming to and end and disbanding with immediate effect.

“Although this has been a tough and heartbreaking decision, we feel that this is the only outcome.

“As they say, all good things must come to an end someday.

“We have had a number of great years and success on and off the pitch but unfortunately we have struggled for a while now, for players and the commitment of players and we feel that we have reached a stage where we can no longer continue.

“We would like to send our sincere gratitude to every player, coach, committee member, volunteer, sponsor and supporter for their time and support over the years.”

The post was met with onslaught of well wishes and sad messages.

Ynysddu Welfare FC enjoyed success in the 2017/2018 season by becoming division 2 champions and Gwent amateur cup winners.

In seasons 1987–88 and 2001–02 Ynysddu Welfare FC won the South Wales Amateur Football League, Division Two.

The club played in the South Wales Amateur Football League from Season 1946–47 to 2011–12, when they transferred to the Gwent County FA League for Season 2012/13 onwards.

In 2019 the club was left homeless following the council’s decision to close Pontllanfraith Leisure Centre – where Ynysddu Welfare FC played.