MARGATE directors say they are fed up at being the target for “unpleasant comments and personal attacks” as the battle to return to Hartsdown Park continues.

They say they are determined to deal in facts, rather than speculation, which could be misleading.

A club statement said: "With all matters about the stadium still delicately balanced, the directors consider it unwise to put those delicate negotiations at risk, with either our development partners Thanet District Council, or our investor CNC Properties PLC.

“The Directors are fully aware of the very unpleasant comments being made about them, and people working with them, to bring the saga of the new stadium to its conclusion."

The statement goes on: "Personal attacks on individuals are not well received and do nothing to maintain their motivation to keep the vision alive, particularly when these critiscms are from un-named people who refuse to stand up and be counted, which clearly we have been prepared to do.”

The board added that “trading conditions have been very difficult” and that they are keen to appoint a new chairman but those who have indicated “strong interest” await news on the stadium before committing themselves.

They also confirmed that club staff have worked without pay for several weeks, but hope to make a statement about the club’s future next week, when the new Conference South fixtures are due to be released.

Meanwhile, members of the Margate Independent Supporters Association have been praised for their efforts in helping the club’s fight for survival and generating income.

The statement added: “We are grateful for all their support and hard work and it is these people who stand up and put their hard work where their mouth is, which forms the backbone of what has to be done at Margate Football Club to pull the club through this very difficult time.

“We continue to work in the best interests, and in accordance with the overwhelming decision reached by the club’s members at the recent EGM”

Margate will be taking part in the revived League Cup. All 44 Conference South and North clubs will be included in the draw.