Jammers Fans Fight to Save Maldon & Tiptree Amid Ownership Crisis

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, August 30, 2026

Maldon & Tiptree’s upcoming league matches have been postponed as supporters scramble to prevent the club’s closure amid financial troubles following the arrest of its former owners. Fans have launched a crowdfunding campaign and are seeking clarity on the club’s future to safeguard its continuity in English football.

Supporters of Maldon & Tiptree are mobilizing to prevent the club’s closure following an ownership crisis that has led to the postponement of their next two league fixtures. The Isthmian League announced on Friday evening that Maldon & Tiptree’s matches against Cray Wanderers and Brentwood Town, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday respectively, would not take place amid concerns over the club’s future.

The disruption comes after the Jammers Fans Association (JFA) disclosed that several supporters had received communication from club representatives indicating an intention to liquidate the club. Maldon & Tiptree’s ownership has been under intense scrutiny since last year, when Barrie Drewitt-Barlow and Scott Drewitt-Barlow purchased the Essex-based side and guided them to the Isthmian North title in the 2025 season.

However, the situation deteriorated significantly in May when both Barrie and Scott Drewitt-Barlow were arrested on charges related to human trafficking and the grooming of young males. They remain on remand and are scheduled to face trial on January 18. Following their detention, their son Aspen Drewitt-Barlow assumed sole ownership of the club and has publicly asserted his full commitment to maintaining the club’s operations.

Despite these assurances, the JFA was informed earlier this week that the current ownership could no longer financially support the club, prompting fears of imminent closure. Attempts to obtain comments from club officials and manager Mark Hawkes have so far been unsuccessful.

In response to the unfolding crisis, the Jammers Fans Association confirmed it has formally requested further information from the club and pledged to keep supporters updated as developments occur. Meanwhile, Maldon & Tiptree fans have initiated an online crowdfunding campaign to raise funds either for a prospective takeover or to establish a phoenix club should the original entity cease to operate.

As the club’s future hangs in balance, the community continues efforts to preserve Maldon & Tiptree’s place in English football.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.