A LOCKDOWN-HIT football club say recent plans to ease lockdown restrictions are not enough.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled plans in parliament on Monday to end lockdown restrictions in England by June 21.

As part of the plans, it is hoped grassroots and amateur sports clubs and teams will be able to start playing again by March 29.

The news means many clubs can breath a sigh of relief after being in lockdown since January.

However, some say simply allowing play to resume is not enough to help some clubs with the financial impact of having no matches and fans in attendance taking its toll.

Graham Dover, treasurer of Halstead Town Football Club, says spectators are a vital part of the game, and not much will improve for the club until fans are allowed to attend matches.

He said: “For clubs at our level and above, it’s important that not only can we train and play but that spectators are allowed back in.

“This probably won’t happen until mid to late April by which time it will probably be too late to continue the season, even if it is extended until say the end of June.”

The team play in the in the sixth tier of English football in the Eastern Counties League Division One South which was postponed due to the lockdown.

Mr Dover added: “Our players have been given training schedules and challenges to try and retain their fitness.

“When the season does eventually restart I don’t see fitness being a problem. All clubs will be in the same situation.

“As a club we have kept ourselves occupied decorating and carrying out other necessary maintenance on the clubhouse, stand, tea bar and changing rooms.

“We are very pleased with what has been achieved.

“Everyone at the club is frustrated by the current situation and can’t wait to see a football kicked around again.

“But the safety and welfare of everyone involved with the club has to take priority.”