MP Chris Matheson is urging the Government to provide crucial financial support to National League clubs – including Chester FC – in the form of grant funding rather than loans.

He is concerned that clubs will now be left facing "serious financial difficulties" as a result of "misleading information" on how future funding would be offered to compensate for the loss of stadium revenue.

Initial funding for National League clubs came in the form of support grants.

However, Mr Matheson says it has "now come to light that any further funding will only be made available in the form of loans".

He said: “Chester FC belongs to the fans and is a vital part of the community here in Chester.

"Many clubs, including Chester FC, made the decision to start the season behind closed doors with reassurance that support grants will be made available to compensate for essential revenue lost from fans and spectators not being able to return.

"Sadly, the government have let them down.

"I welcomed the initial funding for National League football clubs which for many was a lifeline as they rely heavily on matchday revenue to survive. However, it has now come to light that any further funding will only be made available in the form of loans.

"This misleading information has resulted in clubs making decisions that have now left them facing serious financial difficulties. I have written to the Minister for Sport, Tourism and Heritage at the Department for Digital, Culture Media & Sport, urging the government to provide support for National League clubs through grants as it was initially indicated.”