EXILED Gloucester City will be playing their home matches at Evesham United’s ground next season.

The Tigers, who face Worcester City in National League North on Saturday, are currently groundsharing with Cheltenham Town.

Evesham will embark on a “relatively small schedule of works” required to bring their ground up to the required standard for National League North, according to The Tigers.

Gloucester chairman Mike Dunstan said: “I would like to thank Evesham United for extending a hand of friendship to us in this difficult time, and look forward to working with them.”

A Gloucester City statement says: “Following media speculation regarding our ground share arrangements for next season, we can confirm that we have agreed a ground share with Evesham United for next season.

“The deal is for one season, but we have agreed an option for a second year should that be necessary.

Whilst the club would have liked to break this news to fans we have always held a strict policy that we don’t negotiate in public, only releasing information once a deal is signed, all signatures were only in place on Monday, January 23. Evesham United have been in lock-step with us on that approach.

“We fully appreciate that this is a longer distance for fans to travel, but must stress that there are no options closer to home with the required grading. Even taking voluntary relegation (which we do not believe is in the best interests of the club) would not open other suitably graded options within the City.

“We believe that this club, which has represented the City for over 130 years, is worth fighting for and we will fight tooth and nail to keep it playing at as high a level as possible.

“We will of course look at ways to help fans with transport to and from games, but would urge all those who support this club to continue that fight. Our fans have always been a massive asset and we need their support now as we have throughout our exile.

“With regards to the building of our new ground we are seeking details of timelines from our owner, and will look to share that as soon as we can. Everyone is very seized of the need to return this club to the City and the continuing damage of our exile.

“We would like to extend our sincerest thanks to Cheltenham Town for their continued help over the seasons we have groundshared at Whaddon Road.”

Evesham chairman Jim Cockerton said the agreement was a “business decision” as he believed the move would be a financial boost for the club.

“It is great news financially,” he said.

“I expect there will be one or two people who will say it will create extra wear on the pitch but this is a business decision that we have taken as a committee.

“They have an option for two years if their ground isn’t ready, so we will do our best to welcome them and make their stay as enjoyable as possible.”