The Toolstation NCEL have released the following statement with regards to the starting date of the 2020/21 league season, following a number of enquiries.

"A lot of people have been asking us whether the change in spectator guidelines announced by the FA today will affect our decision made yesterday to delay the start of the 2020/21 Toolstation NCEL league season by a fortnight to Saturday 19th September, 2020.

"Despite the excellent news, we will still be starting on that new date, in order that we can make sure that all of our clubs are fully compliant with the COVID-19 regulations with regards to their facilities and to keeping supporters, players, match officials and club officials safe.

"We are as eager as anyone to want to begin the league season as soon as possible but we believe the 19th September start will ensure that we will be able to do it in the safest way possible."

Earlier, it was announced that crowds of up to 150 will be allowed into games hosted by Toolstation NCEL clubs from Saturday (22nd August) to 30th August, with that maximum raised to 300 from 31st August, all subject to COVID-19 regulations.