On the surface things seem fine at Tokyngton Manor. A mid-table position in the Spartan League Midlands Division 1 – 12 wins and 12 defeats – has brought stability after relegation last year. However, the club coffers must be struggling as they hold the nation’s record for the biggest decline in crowds – from a lofty average of 47 last year to an average of 11 this season - with one game attracting just one spectator. Where are the missing 36?

This contrasts with Bootle of the North West Counties League Division 1. They have increased attendances by 138% this season, leaping from an average of 47 to 111. Bootle are top of their division - a division that confusingly includes AFC Liverpool, Wigan Robin Park, Oldham Town, AFC Blackpool and Rochdale Town.

If you’re looking at numbers, the biggest drop is at Birmingham City where 7,742 supporters have walked away from supporting the Championship side at each game. At the other end of the spectrum, Stoke City have gained over 10,000 fans at each home game. Outside the league, Eastbourne Borough of the Blue Square Premier have added over 500 bodies to the terraces, while Torquay United have lost over 1,000 paying punters.

Maybe, the problems are quite literally on the surface at Tokyngton Manor - the mud. Pictures on their website seem more interested in the mud and water lying about the place rather than the fortunes of the mid-table team.