The Tories have branded the sudden closure of a football academy as a “hammerblow” for children who depended on it following Labour's tax hikes. Stuart Andrew, Shadow Secretary for Culture, Media and Sport, warned Accrington Stanley’s shutting down would threaten jobs and staff’s livelihoods.

He said: “Labour’s jobs tax is pushing businesses to the brink and now we’re seeing the consequences.The closure of this academy isn’t just a headline, it’s a hammer blow to staff, local jobs, and the futures of young people who relied on it. This is what happens when Labour taxes work and punishes growth.

''Labour need to wake up and realise the real-world damage they’re doing as it’s communities who are paying the price.”

The club, based in Lancashire, which competes in the EFL League Two, took to social media on Tuesday night to announce the academy’s closure.

Its board of directors said the decision has not been made lightly but called it a “necessary step” given the significant financial challenges the club is currently facing.

They blamed the "restrictions on the use of club facilities, the reduced ability to generate revenue and the imposition of significant tax increases on jobs substantially raising costs for what is already a loss-making business.”

From April employers have had to pay National Insurance at 15% on salaries above £5,000, up from 13.8% on salaries above £9,100.

Accrington Stanley’s academy closure has left the community “devastated” and “heartbroken”.

The directors’ statement continued: "We understand the profound impact this will have on our young players, their families, and the wider community, and we are deeply sorry for the disappointment and disruption this decision will cause.”

People have taken to social media to share their outrage and sadness, with Huncoat United Juniors FC commenting on the statement shared on Facebook: "This is terrible. All those players and coaches are heartbroken. Accrington Stanley have provided so many fun opportunities for our players in their match day experiences, so sorry it’s come to this."

The club members and their parents have shared their heartbreak with Craig Smith commenting: "My lad is captain of the under 13s and they have been unbelievable this season winning two EFL tournaments and competing with clubs way up in the pyramid. Such a shame on the boys and the staff."

Matthew Walmsley said: "All the hard work over many years gone just like that."

Geoff Biscomb added: "Absolutely devastating news for the club, parents and children whose football future has been ripped away by some ludicrous decisions."

The Government has been contacted for comment.