Following a meeting with the Football Association on Thursday, 26th November, the Toolstation Western League have suspended all league fixtures until 18th December.

The FA meeting clarified the impact on non-league football that the Government’s revised Tier guidance will have. Previously, football at Steps 5 and 6 of the non-league pyramid has been able to continue, as long as it conforms with Covid-19 guidance. The new protocols mean that fifteen Western League sides situated in Tier 3 can no longer welcome spectators.

The remaining Western League Clubs, including the six located in B&NES, have been placed in Tier 2, where spectators are allowed, but Clubhouses will remain closed. Whilst the Government has paved the way for fans to return to professional football, the winter months are likely to take their toll on Western League attendances, with fans no longer able to mingle indoors.

Non League Clubs and Leagues have been adamant that football cannot be played behind closed doors, a position the FA previously acknowledged in June. At that time, the FA also recognised that “Clubs need bars and food outlets”, a key concern in Tier 2 areas.

As the implications of the new restriction become apparent, some Clubs have told the league that they cannot play without the revenue generated by their clubhouses. The League is currently in the process of conducting a further consultation with Club officials, the results of which will be reported back to the FA, to be discussed at a meeting this week. Fixtures below can take place because they are County Level (Step 7).