RUMOURS have circulated on social media this week surrounding the current state of Taunton Town Football Club.

It has been speculated that there is a rift between the boardroom and players as well as rumours that players are not being paid.

Club chairman Kevin Sturmey has addressed those rumours saying the situation has been difficult over the last few weeks.

Speaking to the County Gazette, Sturmey said: "Money is tight at the moment. It has been a tough time financially as the games that have been called off have been painful to the club.

"The games we have played, in the Somerset Cup or the Trophy, also produced a loss financially for us, it has been tough, obviously the weather hasn't helped at all."

He added: "The club and the players have an agreement, a contract, and those will be honoured from both sides.

"I try to keep honest with the players and they understand the situation currently, a plan is in place going forward."

Fans have also claimed that upgrades to the Taunton Town pitch are required as all too often this time of year the club has games called off.

Sturmey added: "The pitch was beyond flooded earlier this week, possibly the worst I have ever seen it.

"Upgrading or adding drainage to the pitch would be a pointless task in reality as the ground is built on top of an old tip and it wouldn't prove a success.

"I would love to have a cover for the pitch and in fact I would love the perfect pitch but it is an expensive project all round."

That led him to discuss the clubs need for more money, both to fund upgrades and advancements at the ground but to also keep the side competing at this level.

He said: "We are a small club in the National League South, no doubt about that, and all of us here are always trying to do what is best for the club.

"It is a tough period, on and off the pitch, we would of course want to see some improved results in the coming weeks and for the rest of the season."

To end, Sturmey said the town of Taunton can help the club by offering their support on matchdays.

"Ultimately, our profits on matchdays pay the players, staff and keep the club afloat, the more we get in on game days, the better for the club.

"Taunton is a big town, get down and support us on matchdays, we appreciate the support."

Taunton have two home games in the week ahead. First up on Saturday (December 9) they host Farnborough at 3pm.

Then on Tuesday (December 13) the Peacocks host local rivals Weston-super-Mare AFC.