Supporters of Ealing Trailfinders have launched a petition calling for the club to be promoted to rugby’s Premiership, arguing the borough is missing out on up to £10m a year in economic benefits.
More than 1,500 people have signed the online petition, as the Ealing side extended their unbeaten run to 22 matches in the Championship. The club are currently 20 points clear at the top of the table with nine games remaining and have been crowned champions three times in the past four seasons.
Despite their success, Trailfinders fans say the club is being blocked from promotion for a fifth consecutive year because of Rugby Football Union requirements.
Adrian Mooney, a campaign spokesperson, said: “Ealing Trailfinders face being blocked from promotion on merit by red tape for the fifth year in a row. We have engaged with MPs and the local council to illustrate the benefits of having top class sports in the borough.”
The group has written to Ealing’s MPs, James Murray and Dr Rupa Huq, and to local councillors seeking support, including an early day motion in parliament.
Campaigners point to neighbouring Hounslow, where Brentford FC’s rise to the Premier League generated £143m in economic and social value over three years, according to an independent report.
