Chesterfield FC takeover delayed due to coronavirus pandemic - but funders "remain committed" to concluding deal

However, the deal “remains on course to be concluded”, it said in a statement.

The trust first registered its interest in buying the club from owner Dave Allen last October.

In February the chairman of the trust, Mike Goodwin, said a deal was “close to completion.”

It had been hoped that it could be finalised by the end of March but that will not be possible due to the pandemic as their funders have “various pressing matters to deal with.”

However, the trust hopes to resume the process at the end of April.

Providing an update, Mr Goodwin said: “The pandemic has had an impact on the timing of the takeover as our funding partners currently have various pressing matters to deal with at what is a very challenging time for everyone.

“They do, however, remain committed to working in partnership with the trust to bring the takeover to a conclusion. It is hoped that we will be able to get things underway again at the end of April.

“I have been in regular contact with Ashley Carson and kept him informed of developments. The matter which has led to the delay is of course beyond our control and something that nobody could have envisaged.

“I would like to thank Ashley, who has been very understanding and supportive, as he has been since the negotiations got underway.”

The trust has outlined its plans for the club which includes the opening of a supporters’ bar, an increased number of major high level events, an overhaul of the conference and banqueting offer while more emphasis will be put on encouraging families and the wider community, particularly schools, to attend games.

Mr Goodwin said that the club “must live within its means” but that they “must strive to assemble a squad capable of returning to the Football League.”

Chesterfield caretaker manager, John Pemberton, who is on a rolling contract, has not yet met the trust.