THE FA have given an update on what yesterday's Covid-19 roadmap for easing lockdown restrictions means for grassroots football.

The timetable spells out a safe return for both adults and children from March 29.

This will impact on plenty of clubs in this area at open age and junior level - and the season has been extended accordigly.

The statement reads: "With this new clarity around timings, we will continue to work with Government on plans for a safe return for grassroots football across England and will communicate updated guidance as soon as we can.

"We can also confirm that the 2020-21 grassroots season has been extended until the end of June in order to provide additional flexibility and time for leagues to complete their fixtures this season if they wish to do so.

However it explains that the extension does not apply to the National League System (NLS) Steps 3-6, Regional NLS Feeder Leagues [Cheshire Football League Premier Division] and the Women’s Football Pyramid from Tier 3 and below, including County Leagues at Tier 7.

This is because the process to determine the preferred route forward for these competitions is currently ongoing. We will provide a further update on this in due course.

The Cheshire Football League is awaiting further guidance from The FA and their sanctioning authority, Cheshire FA.

A meeting of all Clubs is scheduled to take place on 4 March 2021 when the League's Full Council is due to meet.

In the meantime the League reiterates that all Clubs must continue to ensure full compliance with the national lockdown.