Morecambe FC has confirmed the resolution of its pension fund issues, a key step towards having a National League transfer embargo lifted. The club's off-field progress comes as the team struggles on the pitch, currently sitting 24th in the National League North with just one point from four games.
In a statement, the club said all outstanding matters relating to pension fund contributions have been settled. This includes the full payment of overdue schedules to the pension provider, Nest. The club said it is now in ongoing discussions with Nest, The Pensions Regulator, and the National League.
Chief Operating Officer Steve Dewsnip told club channels the issue stemmed from a missed contribution schedule, calling it a purely administrative matter. Morecambe is hopeful the league's player registration embargo, imposed on August 11, will be removed soon. The club thanked supporters for their patience during what it described as a challenging period.
Manager Adam Lakeland has openly addressed the frustration surrounding the team's form. Speaking to reporters, he said he completely understands supporters being frustrated and has no issue with them venting at him. Morecambe has taken just one point from its first four matches, leaving them bottom of the table with a goal difference of minus three.
Lakeland identified a negative feel around the club that is also present in the changing rooms. He stated the only way out is for everyone to stick together and work harder. The manager added he needs more from people and hates any feeling of self-pity, despite acknowledging a number of things are going against the squad.
The Shrimps' on-field struggles are stark. They are 24th in the National League North, having scored only two goals while conceding five. Their recent form reads as three losses and a draw. This leaves them a significant 11 points behind early leaders Chester in the title race.
Before that, the focus will be on improving performances and integrating any new signings should the embargo be lifted.
Away from the first-team struggles, the Morecambe FC Community Foundation has secured a major grant. The foundation has been awarded £216,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund. This money will fund a new three-year Volunteer Project aimed at inspiring 150 local people.
The project will focus on building connections, achieving potential, and delivering change through weekly sessions. MFCCF CEO Stuart Glover said the funding demonstrates the impact they are able to have on the community. The foundation runs extensive programmes in schools and works with various local agencies and charities.
The immediate priority is the removal of the transfer embargo to allow manager Adam Lakeland to strengthen his squad. On the pitch, the team must find a way to convert performances into points to climb away from the bottom of the table. The club will hope the resolution of its administrative issues marks a turning point, allowing full focus to return to football matters. Supporters can track the squad's progress and any potential new arrivals on our dedicated squad page.
