FANS of Welling United are considering standing in next year’s council elections in protest at a perceived lack of support from Bexley Council.

Supporters believe the council has not given their club enough financial backing over the years, and is too focused on its relationship with Premiership club Charlton Athletic.

The continued absence of council funding to support a community officer at the club has proved the final straw for some fans, who are now considering taking direct political action if there is no change.

Writing in a recent match programme, Matthew Mein, a Wing’s follower of 15 years, said: "Over the past few years, we have consistently heard about the positive relationship between various clubs and their local councils.

"However, our club seems to miss out on many advantages these other clubs have.

"After much thought we decided to ask for a meeting with the club to find out if it would support our members standing to be local councillors."

He said with 4,500 members, the club has enough people to make the elections a success.

The supporters are due to meet with general manager Graham Hobbins in the next 10 days to discuss the situation.

Mr Hobbins said he understands the fans’ frustration, but did not necessarily agree with their plans.

He said: "Since I’ve been here from 1978, the council had not volunteered to spend a single penny on the property. That is disappointing.

"But whether their (the fans’) idea is the right way, I’m not so sure. Sometimes it’s better to talk and sit round a table.