ONE of the leading junior football clubs in Maidstone folded on New Year’s Day.

The Rose were formed in 1963 and established themselves as one of the major forces in the Maidstone & District League.

However, they decided to call it a day after finding it increasingly difficult to field 11 players.

League chairman David Izatt said "The Rose have been the top team in the league in recent years and everyone will be sorry to see such an established and successful side withdraw."

Their results will be expunged and new and updated tables will appear with next week’s results.

* SEE THE KENT MESSENGER (JANUARY 5) FOR THE FULL STORY.