Wealdstone's long-term future has been thrown into doubt after their request to extend their lease at Grosvenor Vale was turned down.

The Stones have eight years left on their lease and were optimistic about securing a long-term extension, thought to be at least 25 years, but landlords KSIMC rejected the motion at their recent AGM.

Wealdstone have been homeless for more than 20 years but relocated to Grosvenor Vale two years ago after acquiring a majority shareholding in Ruislip Manor Sports and Social Club.

Stones chairman Howard Krais confirmed the club have kept up to date with lease and rental payments.

Krais said: "Although the initial response from our landlords suggested that we could return to this issue in the future a further communication from them last week stated categorically that no lease extension will be granted and this was a final decision by KSIMC. No reasons for this hard line and apparent change of mind have so far been provided.

"Clearly this will be disappointing news for many people. I have to let you know that I am shocked by what I consider a wholly unexpected response; as are my colleagues on both the football club and social club boards.

"I reiterate that our verbal discussions had been warm and friendly and this was in no way the outcome that we had been led to believe.

"We should remember that we still have eight years remaining on our existing lease so this is no time for knee jerk reactions or panic.

"We will do everything possible to resolve this setback as we have done at Wealdstone over the last 20 years of continuing adversity and tough times."

Wealdstone will consider their options and are expected to hold more talks with the landlords over their future.

The club want to secure a long-term home and are considered unlikely to want to invest in developing the Vale unless they can reach an agreement over a lease extension.