A FOOTBALL club has made it clear that its fans association is independent from the club.

Maldon and Tiptree Football Club publicly responded to a letter from its fan group, the Jammers Fans Association, which asked for answers to questions relating to the future of the club.

There were concerns raised in the statement from the Jammers Fans Association which said: “It's not unfair to suggest that the performances on the pitch have been poor and below the ‘normal’ standard for our club for a considerable amount of time.”

The football club responded and said many of the points raised in the fans association letter would not be discussed publicly.

Also in response, the club has said it will no longer accept any sponsorship or funds from the association.

A spokesman for the Maldon and Tiptree FC management said: “We wish to make it clear that Maldon and Tiptree FC does not endorse or maintain any form of partnership with the Jammers Fans Association.

“They operate as an independent association, and their members do not receive any privileges or benefits from the club for being part of their organisation.

“Effective immediately, we will not permit the Jammers Fans Association to raise or collect funds within our stadium, nor will we accept any sponsorship or funds from the association.

“At Maldon and Tiptree FC, we highly value our fan base, and we are excited to announce the appointment of two fan liaison officers on behalf of the club.

“Please join us in welcoming Lee Witney and Alan Taylor to their new roles.

"We are committed to working closely with Lee and Alan to strengthen the relationship between the club and our supporters.

“We are also delighted to report that season ticket sales for the 2023/2024 season have seen an incredible 400 per cent increase.

“This remarkable response from our fans is truly appreciated, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has purchased a season ticket.

“Your continued support means the world to us, and we look forward to a successful and exciting season ahead.”

The fans' association responded by saying it hopes community collections arranged previously will continue and the group will still look to support local causes. 

A spokesman said: "We still maintain hope that both the club and the JFA can one day restore a working relationship."