Alfreton Town among clubs issuing statements regarding grants made to National League sides

Alfreton Town are among 12 National League North clubs who have issued a statement addressing situation regarding grants made to clubs in the division.
Alfreton Town are among 12 clubs who have issued a statement regarding financial grants.Alfreton Town are among 12 clubs who have issued a statement regarding financial grants.
Alfreton Town are among 12 clubs who have issued a statement regarding financial grants.

It questions how action can continue without supporters in grounds and suggestions that future financial support would come in the shape of loans and not grants.

The statement read: "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 to stadiums.

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"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.

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"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.

"As clubs we have 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."

Letter signed by: 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 - David Mahoney; Kidderminster Harriers – Neil Male; Southport – Ian Kyle; Spennymoor Town – Tony Wilson.