Wessex League clubs to be consulted over planned season restart

Clubs in the Wessex League are being consulted over the planned season restart next week.
Fareham Town action. Picture: Duncan ShepherdFareham Town action. Picture: Duncan Shepherd
Fareham Town action. Picture: Duncan Shepherd

Teams from the two divisions are to be asked whether resuming the campaign is financially viable for them.

The government's new three-tier system announced on Thursday means some clubs at ‘'non-elite’ level will be forced to play games behind closed doors or unable to serve food or drink and open clubhouses when the nationwide lockdown is lifted on Wednesday.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In the Wessex League, 36 of the 39 teams are within areas placed under tier two of the new lockdown restrictions.

But Isle of Wight-based trio Cowes Sport, East Cowes Victoria and Newport IOW are one of just three regions in England falling into the tier one category.

Although supporters will still be able to attend matches across the Wessex League, clubhouses could still remain shut in places under tier two restrictions with alcohol unable to be served unless accompanied by a 'substantial meal.'

Clubs operating at the Wessex League, including Fareham Town, Horndean, Baffins Milton Rovers, AFC Portchester and US Portsmouth, are now to have their say as to whether a restart is financially viable for them.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The FA are seeking feedback from teams at step five and six level prior to a leagues committee meeting on Tuesday.

Two Wessex League matches - one in the Premier Division and Division One - are scheduled to take place on Saturday, December 5 as Bournemouth Poppies host Portland United while East Cowes Victoria - placed under tier one restrictions – are due to welcome Ringwood Town.

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.