THE NADDER Valley Football League is warning that unless more clubs take part in its trio of cup competitions next season, they could be scrapped.

This year's finals are currently being staged at Bemerton Heath Harlequins' Western Way ground on successive Thursdays in April and May.

However, the league, due to celebrate its 100th birthday in six years time, is warning it is prepared to pull the plug on the competitions if there is no significant improvement on the numbers entering.

The Lord Bledisloe Challenge Cup and WC Stokes Memorial Cup are among the most prestigious to be played for in the Salisbury area and boast proud traditions.

Chairman of the league, Tony Glasson, said: "The low number of entries received from clubs for this season's competitions was very disappointing. It was frustrating to say the least, that we subsequently also suffered a number of withdrawals – although the reasons were understandable.

"We would like to think that we can get back to attracting the number of entries that we have enjoyed in our recent past. But in the current climate where some clubs are folding, we do have to be realistic. We have kept our entry and registration fees for clubs to a minimum in recent years and this will continue to be our policy as we look to encourage more teams to participate in the future."

Glasson said the Nadder Valley League's centenary would provide the opportunity for a number of special events to celebrate its role in the local football scene. "However, to reach that magnificent milestone we first need to ensure all three cup competitions remain viable."

Alderbury and Alderholt met in the final of the Lord Bledisloe Cup on Thursday evening, while Chalke Valley and Redlynch & Woodfalls clash in the WC Stokes Cup on Thursday, April 24. The following Thursday sees the final of the league's Under 18s Challenge Cup.

Both are 7.30pm kick offs.