One of the main adult football leagues on the south coast has escaped oblivion – after clubs answered an SOS call.

The Southampton & District Sunday League is just two years away from celebrating its 50th anniversary.

But there were fears the league might fold due to a lack of people wanting to take up volunteer positions on the committee.

But, to the league’s surprise, clubs from the two division league – which was formed as the Commercial Houses Sunday League back in the 1960s – have come to the rescue. Six people have come forward from the clubs to work on the committee, and already the league has had calls from potential new clubs for next season.

“The message from the clubs,” said league president David Creeden, “was that it wasn’t all doom and gloom.

“They were asked if they wanted the league to continue and they all said ‘yes’.

“It was a nice surprise.

“The clubs all said they enjoyed playing in the league and they wanted it to carry on.”The league has suffered in recent times from a drop off in interest.

Fifteen years ago the league boasted five divisions.

Now, this season, they are operating with just two divisions.

But Creeden remains hopeful that a third division could be introduced next season.

The league have slashed their entrance fees in a bid to attract more teams.

Previously £85 to register a team, entrance fees for 2013/14 are now only £50.

Ray Agius has agreed to stay on to administer the accounts and will help the new volunteers.

The league will also be introducing the FA’s Full Time league administration system which will make admin easier for the league and clubs, including allowing the clubs to text in results rather than phone them in.

Anyone wanting to know more about entering a team into the Southampton & District Sunday League next season can contact Dave Creeden on 023 80438889 (work), 02380 444582 (home) or mobile (07715 422881).