Sports Minister: The FA definition of non-elite means football clubs from Level Seven (below National League North and South) can admit some spectators

The Non-League football family has secured its most vital victory of the season this afternoon.

The UK Government has finally seen sense and issued a brief statement on Twitter to confirm football fans can attend matches at clubs below the National League North and South.

Sports Minister, Nigel Huddleston MP, was written to by Kent MP Tracey Crouch yesterday and has given the go-ahead for fans to attend matches (in our region) in the Isthmian League, Southern Counties East Football League and Kent County League.

“We’ve clarified guidance for organisers of non-elite sports events to help them admit spectators safely – with social distancing,” wrote Huddleston.

“The FA definition of non-elite means football clubs from Level Seven (below National League North and South) can admit some spectators.”

A further statement from the DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport) said: “Where it is anticipated that an activity will attract spectators, there should be a named person or persons with responsibility for ensuring adherence with these guidelines and ensuring the facility is Covid-19 secure.

“The person should carry out and publish a risk assessment for the activity which limits the number of spectators and focuses on the need to maintain social distancing on arrival, for the duration of the activity, and on departure.

“Arrangements should also be put in place to support test and trace efforts by collecting information from spectators which is detailed enough to allow NHS Test and Trace to contact them if necessary.”

A statement from the Southern Counties East Football League said: "The League will seek clarification from The FA before confirming any new guidance as this is a fast-moving and complicated situation."

The Football Association will be publishing new guidance tomorrow.

Thank you to everyone who contributed towards the #LetFansIn campaign.