IN a column for the Hereford Times, Herefordshire FA's chief executive officer Alan Darfi says that local leagues are working hard for football to resume this season.

He said: "Here we go again.

"I don’t know if it’s just the weather, or the fact that grassroots football was really going so well, but this lockdown feels much harder.

"The lack of activity has had a financial impact, so we have reluctantly placed most of the team onto furlough leave again.

"We do however continue to provide support to clubs and participants, which is so important at the minute.

"I really feel for volunteers.

"In an ordinary season everyone puts in a phenomenal effort as it is, but the impact of Covid has really pushed this.

"I have been so impressed at their ability to keep positive in the face of adversity and I know that, as soon as we can start back up again, the game will pick up where it left off, due to them.

"Whilst there is hopefully light at the end of the tunnel, like most we are waiting for the update from Government in a few weeks’ time.

"The FA recently distributed a survey across the game which confirmed that, unsurprisingly, most want to continue playing this season, which would ordinarily finish in May.

"I know our local leagues are working hard to ensure that plans are in place for football to resume this season.

"This may look slightly different to usual but, from speaking to those in the game at all levels, I know that whatever is agreed upon will be well-received. "People just want to get back to doing what they love.

"Despite the lack of football, things continue to be busy behind the scenes.

"One specific output is the fact that we are advertising for an independent chair for our inclusion advisory group.

"This group provides advice and guidance on all equality matters and contains some fantastic individuals.

"I’m really looking forward to recruiting the independent chair, who I think will have a huge impact.

"Details are on our website.

"This, along with a number of other really positive initiatives, have kept me going through the dark months.

"Let’s just hope for brighter (and warmer!) days ahead."