Chester FC - Joint Statement

When National League clubs agreed in October to start the season playing behind closed doors, this decision was based on reassurances that grants would be provided to compensate for essential revenue lost from fans not returning on 1st October.

Had these assurances not been provided then many Clubs at our level may have taken the decision not to commence the season.

Matchday revenue from supporters attending games and its associated income streams are the lifeblood for our clubs. We are grateful to the Government, The FA, and the National Lottery for recognising this and the roles our clubs play in their communities. We thank them for the grant support we have received to date.

The initial package of £10m was to cover the first three months of the season with the clear understanding that grants would continue until it was safe for crowds to return. There was absolutely no mention of loans at that time.

We have all worked diligently to comply with elite sport protocols and ensure a prudent approach to financial management based upon the reassurances given in October.

We the undersigned clubs therefore call on the Secretary of State Oliver Dowden, the Department of Culture, Media & Sport and The FA not to betray the trust National League clubs placed in them by agreeing to commence the season and to ensure the additional £11m in support is in the form of grants not loans.

Alfreton Town – Wayne Bradley

Blyth Spartans – Anthony Platten

Brackley Town – Francis Oliver

Bradford (Park Avenue) – Martin Knight

Chester – Andrew Morris

Darlington – David Johnston

Farsley Celtic – Joshua Greaves

Gloucester City – Alex Petheram

Kettering Town – David Mahoney 

Kidderminster Harriers – Neil Male

Southport – Ian Kyle

Spennymoor Town – Tony Wilson