WEST NORFOLK council today revealed it had set aside �250,000 to save the stricken Linnets.King s Lynn FC have been threatened with relegation from Conference North because of claims their ground at The Walks is not up to scratch.Chairman Ken Bobbins sa

WEST NORFOLK council today revealed it had set aside �250,000 to save the stricken Linnets.

King's Lynn FC have been threatened with relegation from Conference North because of claims their ground at The Walks is not up to scratch.

Chairman Ken Bobbins said the club was being "victimised", adding: "We've been told we would be demoted and thrown out of the league over ground geading issues although the borough council who own the ground have given conference officials their unconditional assurance that the required modifications will be completed by the start of the season."

Council chief executive Ray Harding said: "I'm very disappointed that it has come to this, as we have done everything we can to assist the club.

"The council has approved a substantial additional investment at a time when finance is exceptionally tight due to the impact of the recession. This latest investment follows on from previous investment from the council of �200,000 towards a �350,000 project to refurbish the stands.

"We will be meeting with club officials next week to determine how best we can assist them with their appeal."

The council said it was first approached by the club for assistance in December, after a ground inspection highlighted areas which needed improvement.

It said in a statement: "The council, having been approached for assistance, agreed to provide financial assistance and contract support to enable KLFC to get the major works completed.

"This included setting aside a budget of �250,000 to carry out works to increase the size of the changing rooms and to provide officials' changing rooms and a medical room for players. This sum also included an upgrade to the floodlighting. The smaller items were to be carried out by KLFC themselves including improving signage, adding two extra turnstiles and providing additional room in the dug-outs."

Mr Bobbins confirmed today the club have 14 days to launch an appeal to the league. Lynn would be demoted to the Unibond Premier if they lose with with a huge potential financial impact on the club's playing squad and ongoing attempts to attract potential investment.