NEWPORT IoW’s 4-0 defeat at Team Solent last night has been dwarfed by far more positive news.

The future of the Isle of Wight club has been secured after South Coast Leisure (SCL), owners of their St George’s Park home, agreed to let them stay put for next season.

It means Port can continue in the Sydenhams Premier Division for 2017/18.

Newport’s future was plunged into doubt when they were given notice to quit by SCL, who are looking to build a new development on the St George's site that will create around 250 local jobs.

SCL are also exploring plans to construct a new purpose-built football ground elsewhere as part of the deal.

Club chairman Stuart Ross said “On behalf of Newport, I want to thank South Coast Leisure for allowing us to remain at St George's Park until the middle of May 2018.

“Their commitment to our club and the wider Isle of Wight community has been exemplary, allowing one of the oldest football clubs in the country, of 129 years, to continue its football at a high level whilst ensuring a community facility for the Island is maintained.

“Newport IW FC will be leaving its home in 12 months. However, there are exciting times ahead at the club’s new facility that will provide huge sporting benefits to our children, schools and the wider community.”

Team Solent are up to seventh on the back of last night’s win.

Tobi Adekunle took centre stage with a hat-trick and sub Jesse Waller-Lassen scored the other.