MP's call for Government to give Hartlepool United financial support after season halted by coronavirus

Mr Hill says he will contact the relevant minister over the issue after coronavirus halted Hartlepool United’s play-off chances and bid to return to the football league.

Pools, who play in the Vanamara National League, had seen all their fixtures postponed until April 3 but this week the league confirmed that the season will be suspended indefinitely because of the COVID-19 outbreak and ongoing nationwide lockdown.

Mr Hill said: “Under the ownership of Raj Singh Hartlepool United have risen through the ranks of the Vanamara National League to get to within a whisker of the play offs.

“It’s therefore regrettable, but understandable, that the National League have suspended all matches and effectively ended the season.

“In my opinion Hartlepool United have effectively been robbed of their opportunity to progress back into the English fourth division.

“Lower league football has always suffered from inadequate underfunding but guys like Raj Sigh have truly put their heart and soul and money into trying to make it work and turn the club around.

"In my book Hartlepool United has stood on the brink of success and damn site deserves success and I will be contacting the relevant minister about the financial situation many non league clubs now find themselves in and what support can be offered."

League chiefs said they are getting specialist legal advice and want to consult with clubs before making a final decision what to do.

They said: “In consideration of the very serious and unprecedented national public health emergency caused by the coronavirus, the Board has taken the decision to suspend the National League, National League North and National League South competitions indefinitely.”

Hartlepool United’s last game was away at Sutton United on March 14, when they drew 1-1.

When the season was put on hold Pools were two places outside the play-off spots at ninth in the table with 55 points.

The club has been forced to furlough a number of staff and terminating the contracts of others due to the situation.

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