THE North West Counties League has confirmed its season will restart this Saturday.

The league – which includes Padiham, Barnoldswick Town, AFC Darwen, Nelson and Bacup Borough among its member clubs – had put the season on hold until December 19 after news supporters would not be able to attend games in Tier 3 areas.

That has now changed however and the NWCL will press ahead with plans to get going again this weekend.

The Northern Premier League, which has Clitheroe, Colne and Ramsbottom in its North West Division, has however said it is going to wait for the Government’s next review of the Tier system before making a decision.

It will be announced on Wednesday whether areas will see their coronavirus restrictions changed, which could impact on the amount of fans able to attend matches.

Tier 3 limits are 300 for the Northern Premier League Premier Division, 200 for the North West Division and 150 for both tiers of the North West Counties League.

In Tier 2 those numbers double to 600, 400 and 300, the levels permitted in the early weeks of the season before the second national lockdown of the year.

The NPL have formed part of the Trident Leagues to help manage the issues posed by the pandemic, linking up with other step 3 and 4 leagues the Isthmian and Southern Leagues.

A statement read: "The Trident Leagues (the Isthmian, Northern Premier and Southern Football Leagues) welcome the decision to allow some fans into grounds situated in Tier 3 areas

“However, in light of the decision of all 224 clubs only last week to vote overwhelmingly in favour of suspending the current season the leagues have decided to wait to see the implications of the Government’s review of the Tier system in England – due next Wednesday - before making any further announcements."

The NWCFL said: “Following the FA Statement recently issued with regard to a limited return of spectators for clubs in Tier 3 areas, the league management committee has agreed that the season shall recommence on Saturday, December 19.

"Fixtures have recently been updated on the league website and clubs have been informed by the league management committee of the intention to restart.

“Clubs have been advised to ensure that they comply fully with the DCMS and FA requirements contained in the FA’s statement.  We continue to urge all supporters who are attending games to follow the clubs’ safety arrangements and to enjoy the games, safely.”