Page "Charlton Athletic F.C." Paragraph 24

In the 1980s matters came to a head as the ownership of the club and The Valley was divided.

The large East Terrace had been closed down by the authorities after the Bradford City stadium fire and the ground's owner wanted to use part of the site for housing.

In September 1985, Charlton made the controversial move to ground-share with South London neighbours Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

This move was unpopular with supporters and in the late 1980s significant steps were taken to bring about the club's return to The Valley.

A single issue political party, the Valley Party, contested the 1990 local Greenwich Borough Council elections on a ticket of reopening the stadium, capturing 11 % of the vote, aiding the club's return.

The Valley Gold investment scheme was created to help supporters fund the return to The Valley, and several players were also sold to raise funds.

For the 1991 – 92 season and part of the 1992 – 93 season, the Addicks played at West Ham's Upton Park as Wimbledon had moved into Selhurst Park alongside Crystal Palace.

Charlton finally returned to The Valley in December 1992, celebrating with a 1 – 0 victory against Portsmouth.