National League confirm Government funding for clubs to allow 2020-21 season to go ahead as planned – Hartlepool United, Stockport County, Notts County, Chesterfield and Wrexham set to benefit most

Hartlepool United host Aldershot Town behind closed doors at Victoria Park on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off).

To support clubs and help subsidise the significant revenue lost from not having supporters in attendance due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Government have issued financial support to the National League.

The amount of money each club will receive will be determined by the amount of revenue lost as a result of playing matches behind closed doors.

With Pools having the fifth-highest average attendance in the division last season, it is likely the club will receive one of the largest financial packages to help cover their losses.

News emerged earlier this week that funding had been secured but it was only officially confirmed when the National League issued the following statement on the eve of the new season.

It read: "In recent weeks, The National League and The Football Association have been engaged with Government to address the revenue shortfall expected by member clubs caused by the pause to the safe return of spectators.

“The National League has now received confirmation of significant financial grant-aid support from the Government to compensate clubs for essential revenue lost from fans not returning in October, and has communicated with its member clubs to provide reassurance ahead of the season start.

“The 2020/21 National League season will now commence on 3 October as planned with clubs playing ‘behind closed doors’ in compliance with the elite sport protocols.”

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