Edinburgh Monarchs vow to fight on despite new stadium blow

The Edinburgh Monarchs have vowed to continue the fight as they battle to save their hopes of competing next season.

The club were earlier this year informed that they have to vacate Armadale Stadium - their home for the last 26 years - following the end of the season. That comes about next week with a Farewell to Armadale Scottish Open meeting on October 15.

They had submitted a bid to buy land in Livingston with the hope of being able to build a new stadium - West Lothian Community Stadium - but last month were informed by West Lothian Council that the land had been sold to another bidder.

Unfortunately, that leaves the Monarchs' immediate future in doubt.

However, in a club statement co-promoter John Campbell assured fans they are doing everything possible in order to race next season with remaining in Armadale for a further year being the 'only real option'.

He said: "The project to secure the long-term future of the Monarchs has been ongoing for some time now. Armadale Stadium has been a wonderful home for the Club but has never offered the long-term security we need.

"West Lothian Community Stadium was a fantastic proposal, and it was devastating that things did not go our way with it. However, we still have the plan and our determination to deliver it is unlimited.

"When we were informed about the impending closure of Armadale Stadium, we accelerated our work to secure an alternative. With West Lothian Community Stadium falling through it is clear that time is not on our side to secure a venue for the 2023 season.

"The only real option for 2023 is Armadale Stadium. While it is still standing, we are continuing discussions to identify if there is scope to extend our tenancy by a year. Time is running out but we