HEREFORD FC have been told that they could return to league action in September, if Government guidelines allow.

Clubs were told the news at a virtual meeting held by the National League on Thursday in which Bulls’ chairman Andrew Graham and club secretary Martin Watson both participated.

A statement on the Hereford FC website said: “National North/South, and leagues below, will have to follow public guidance on gatherings, which is currently limited to just six people in a gathering.

“Once the guidance is relaxed to allow not only sufficient numbers but also contact between participants, football at our level should be able to resume.

“The FA are working with the Government to allow spectators into grounds, and the protocols required to not only allow fans in but to also keep everyone safe, from travelling to matches to the use of the various facilities around the ground.”

Following the news Hereford hired Josh Gowling as their permanent manager for the coming season.

Graham said that the National League announcement gives them confidence to start preparing for next season.

”We have been meeting regularly in preparation for continuation of football at Edgar Street,” Graham added.

“Whilst we appreciate that this is in no way a signal for an immediate resumption of normality, it does enable us to have some confidence to now move forward. I must emphasise though, that the health and safety of our fans, financial sustainability and a clear picture of what the 20/21 season looks like, are three factors that will have to be met before we throw our support behind a plan.

“Whatever the outcome, we will be ready and look forward to seeing as many fans as possible at Edgar Street, after what has been an exceptionally challenging time for all. Thank you, as always for your continued show of incredible support!”

Club Secretary Watson added that the provisional date of September depended on the infection rate continuing to decline.

“At the moment the situation still remains up in the air,” added Watson.

“With the direction of travel being to ease the lockdown in stages, the Government have now indicated when we may be able to play football at Edgar Street again.”

“This, of course, depends on the infection rates continuing to decline so it remains of high importance for everyone to continue to follow the guidance on social distancing and public gatherings.”

“Under the current plans one of the North and South divisions will run a team short due to the gap higher up the pyramid caused by Bury’s demise. That, plus the eventual start date and format of the League season means it is still too early to be certain on what season tickets we can sell.”

The Bulls are set to vote on the final outcome of the National North season, including promotion and relegation issues, in the coming days.