Non-league clubs in the East formally oppose the FA's decision to end their seasons
Non league football teams from the East of England have joined forces with clubs across the country in opposing the Football Association's decision to end their seasons amid the Coronavirus outbreak.
Those who have signed an open letter to the FA include Biggleswade Town (Bedfordshire), Maldon & Tiptree (Essex) , Mulbarton Wanderers (Norfolk) and Stowmarket Town (Suffolk).
The FA announced last week that all leagues below the top two tiers of the National League system, in both the men's and women's game, will end immediately.
Since then the three divisions of the National League have been suspended indefinitely due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
The competition had originally been postponed until April 3rd but that deadline has now been extended.
It leaves King's Lynn Town and Brackley Town, both pushing for promotion to the National League from the National League North, in limbo and not knowing if their campaigns will be played to a finish
As for clubs below National League North and South, all results will be expunged, with no promotion or relegation, the seasons in effect declared 'null and void'.
But clubs who were in strong positions to elevate their status in the non league pyramid say the FA's announcement was too hasty.
For instance Stowmarket Town have a healthy lead at the top of the Thurlow Nunn Eastern Counties League Premier Division, having gone through the league campaign unbeaten in 28 games
Media Manager Alex Moss said it was unfair for the FA not to treat clubs lower down the non league pyramid the same as those in the National League, let alone the FA Premier League and the SkyBet EFL.
Wayne Brown has steered Maldon & Tiptree 14 points clear at the top of the Isthmian League North Division - two tiers below the National League South.
The Essex part-timers also enjoyed a successful run in the Emirates FA Cup, reaching Round Two before losing to EFL League Two side Newport County.
But Brown argues the FA's decision also affects teams struggling in their respective divisions.
Those who've signed the open letter have also received backing from Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony.
His show of solidarity was highlighted by South Shields FC through their Twitter account, thanking the Posh owner for his support.
Hear the thoughts of Alex Moss (Stowmarket Town) and Wayne Brown (Maldon & Tiptree FC) on the FA's decision to end the majority of non-league and grassroots football for the season.