Non-league club suspend operations amid allegations of modern slavery

The club confirmed in a statement on Tuesday

Non-league football club Staines Town FC have confirmed that they have suspended all football operations immediately amid a slate of serious allegations including modern slavery. The club, who play in the Isthmian League Southern Central released a statement on Tuesday which detailed the allegations made against investment firm Downing LLP, including breaches of the Modern Slavery Act 2015. In the statement, Staines stated their belief that Downing LLP "have no regard whatsoever for a community football club or for the greater good of football". The statement also alleges bribery and corruption of FIFA officials by a business which Downing LLP has investment holdings in. According to the statement, the club have temporarily all primary operations including but not limited to competitive fixtures. The statement, which can be read on the club's website, initially led to the site crashing, before returning to a live state shortly afterwards.