On Sunday evening, TNS owner Mike Harris held a meeting at Oswestry's social club explaining the merits and reasoning behind the recent merger of the two clubs.

Oswestry Chairman, Bill Jerman and Secretary, James Bond explained how dwindling support and sponsorship had meant that the merger was the only option for the Shropshire club. Bond admitted that the board had considered resigning from the Welsh Premier or joining the Shropshire League from as far back as the end of last season. 

Bond confessed that the Park Hall based club had run up a debt, but wouldn't reveal the exact figure much to the annoyance of Oswestry supporter and shareholder Mike Clarke. Bond insisted that 'he would not sell Oswestry down the river'.

It was suggested that the name 'Oswestry' should be incorporated in the new name, but Harris refused point black stating "We will be investing around £120,000 a year in the merged club, and there is no way my company's board would agree to this with a different name. It is part of the company's strategic marketing policy."

Harris finished by warning that if the FAW or Welsh Premier clubs attempted to block the merger he would appeal to European Authorities. If unsuccessful he revealed that "A stadium could be built elsewhere within mid-Wales, for example in Welshpool." He also added that the FAW would use the new UEFA ground criteria as a way to 'cull' the league t just eight clubs.

Meanwhile Oswestry Manager, Dave Norman (pictured) will not be part of the new management team at TNS. He told BBC Shropshire that he wants to return to playing but did not rule out an eventual return to the club once his playing days were over

Has your opinion changed over the merger? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Let us know your views on the messageboard

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