The wait is over

Sport returned to the borough on Wednesday as lockdown restrictions were lifted.

Grassroots sport which involves close contact between participants, such as team sports, can continue with matches as normal, but teams should minimise physical contact between participants during training sessions.

National governing bodies of the relevant sports will set out guidance on the modifications needed to allow training and matches in Tier 3 areas.

Amateur sport has been halted since November 5, leaving lovers of sport frustrated and confused amid the ongoing pandemic. However, there is now light at the end of the tunnel - albeit temporarily - with new guidance set out by the government allowing the resumption of outdoor sports in the area.

In all three tiers there are exceptions for indoor disability sport, sport for educational purposes and supervised sport and physical activity for under-18s, which can take place with larger groups mixing.

Lovers of golf returned to the borough’s courses following a four-week break, while Curzon Ashton have been allowed to play throughout the lockdown, unlike their rivals across the borough who fell into the non-elite category.

For the likes of Ashton United, Stalybridge Celtic, Hyde United, Mossley and Glossop North End, frustration is beginning to mount amongst clubs officials and supporters, with a vote to determine if the Northern Premier League will restart this weekend taking place last night (Wednesday).

While Avro face an extended period away from the pitch as the North West Counties Football League has decided to postpone games until December 19.

If you’re part of a grassroots club and would like some publicity through Quest Media Network, on air, in print and online, email: mark.philip@questmedianetwork.co.uk or katie.catherall@questmedianetwork.co.uk.