MP warns of 'disastrous' impact of tier three restrictions on non-league football clubs

Jarrow MP Kate Osborne has written to Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Oliver Dowden warning of the ‘disastrous’ consequences for the community if the three clubs in her constituency are not allowed to admit fans.

Since lockdown ended on Wednesday, December 2, South Tyneside and the rest of the North East has been placed on level three of the Government's coronavirus alert system, the most severe state of alert.

That means clubs have been forced to play matches behind closed doors, with a blanket ban on the admission of supporters.

Kate Osborner’s letter to the Secretary of State warns: “The current Tier 3 restrictions have created an unsustainable situation for non-league clubs.”

Clubs need the revenue stream from gate money to survive, she says: “For clubs in the non-league setup, the primary source of income is from home matchdays. Without that income stream, the current measures will kill grassroots football and further damage our local economy.

“I am sure you will agree with me that football clubs are community assets and an important expression of individual and local identity; they deserve urgent support to secure their future.”

Clubs had gone out of their way to prepare for the safe return of fans: “The non-league clubs in my constituency had put an enormous amount of effort and money on putting Covid secure measures in place in anticipation for December 2nd,” says Ms Osborne.

“It is time for common sense to prevail for non-league football teams - most have around 1-200 fans in most grounds at that level, which means it is a safe and socially-distanced environment.

“The current guidelines mean the non- league clubs in my constituency can host fans at their ground for under 23’ and Junior level, yet the first team cannot have fans at a game.

“In my constituency alone, Jarrow FC, Hebburn Town and South Shields FC are all severely affected by this.

“It would be disastrous for our local community if these clubs go out of business. Under the previous tier 3 restrictions non-league clubs could host fans - what has changed?

"Football without fans is nothing. No matter what level.”

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