‘Heartbreak’ of shutdown could be the end for clubs

THE latest shutdown of grassroots sport has been described as ‘disastrous’ and ‘heartbreaking’ by sports leaders and campaign groups — with fears that community clubs could now fold. More than a third of the country’s population was plunged into a new Tier 4 over the weekend, with gyms, swimming pools and other indoor sports facilities all forced to close once again. Outdoor sports facilities can remain open for people to use with their bubble or with one other person, but ‘non-elite’ team sport is now banned again for adults. In football, that includes steps three to six of the National League and tiers three to seven of the women’s pyramid. Under 18s and disabled people can continue to play, but travel restrictions on people entering or leaving Tier 4 will cause problems. ‘Another round of lockdown restrictions is going to be disastrous for people and the clubs that support them,’ said Sophie Mason, chief executive of Made by Sport, a charity that raises awareness of the power of sport to change lives. ‘We are incredibly concerned about the future of clubs. In June, we estimated that as many as a quarter wouldn’t survive and another lockdown will increase that figure. If they close where are kids meant to go? Sports clubs are often the beating heart of communities. These small organisations are tackling some of the biggest issues exacerbated by the pandemic — such as mental health and employment skills — and providing life skills.’ UK Active, which represents more than 4,000 gyms and swimming pools, has said it is ‘essential’ the latest restrictions are lifted when the Government reviews them on December 30.