Margate Football Club followed up Thursday night’s Trident League statement by releasing a statement of their own, withdrawing from their FA Trophy match against Burgess Hill Town, which was scheduled to be played next Tuesday.

It read:

After much deliberation, we have taken the very tough decision to withdraw from the game. A number of factors have contributed to this decision. Firstly, the health and safety of our players and staff are of paramount importance. Kent is currently in Tier 3 with alarming infection rates across the county. This risk alongside the fact a number of players in the squad are in isolation presents a serious risk factor. Additionally, as a Tier 3 area, no fans will be allowed into HDP to watch the game. The financial implications of this apply a pressure on the club if we proceed with the game.

No one wanted this to be the way we finished 2020 but we hold out hope that football will return in 2021.

We will update you with any information as and when we receive it. In the meantime, we hope supporters take good care and keep safe.