BURY AFC boss Andy Welsh admitted he was disappointed that all ‘non-elite’ football has been suspended as a second national lockdown comes in to place today.

But Welsh says it is something clubs will have to get used to and he is now looking forward to finishing the season – something the FA is determined to do.

The ruling means that sides competing in the Northern Premier League and the North West Counties Football League will not be allowed to play or train until Wednesday, December 2.

Radcliffe and Ramsbottom United compete in the NPL while the phoenix club and Prestwich Heys play in the NWCFL.

The announcement also covers all fixtures and training for indoor and outdoor youth and adult grassroots football.

He said: “I’m not a scientist or an expert but is it something I agree with? No. But it is something we are going to have to accept and deal with.

“For one reason or another we have had a real stop-start season and haven’t really been able to build up any momentum and now we have lockdown to contend with so it is disappointing.

“It’s tough as a manager but I can only imagine how hard it is for a player who just want to get out there and play football.

“I feel really sorry for the fans as well but hopefully we will be back in action in a month’s time

“The last thing we want is for football to end now and we are determined to play out the season.”

A statement issued by the FA said: “The FA’s aim is to ensure that the 2020/21 season is completed at these levels and will liaise with the relevant leagues in the NLS and WFP and the County Football Associations (CFAs) to provide support and establish appropriate options to do so if required.

“The UK Government has confirmed that school sport can continue as an exemption during this period.

“Re-starting football at these levels has taken substantial determination and commitment from stakeholders across the game and the FA would like to thank everyone for their vital contributions.”