WITH the world of sport getting back to some sense of normality, Dorchester Football Club has announced how matchdays will be slightly different for fans come the new season in September.

Following the latest announcements by the FA last weekend on the return of grassroots football, it is currently planned for the 2020/21 season to start on Saturday, September 19.

The Magpies’ board of directors met on Monday morning to discuss the conditions needed to be put in place to ensure all supporters can enjoy a safe visit to The Avenue Stadium when football returns.

While more detailed information will follow,the club has shared the following initial changes to Magpies’ matchdays:

- Social distancing guidelines on matchdays in accordance with current FA guidance

- Safe entry and movement in and around the stadium

- Ways to purchase tickets online prior to matches and increased options for cashless payments

- Numerous hand sanitising stations at various points around the stadium

- Plans for the bar area in The Magpies Suite so that everyone can still enjoy matchdays

A spokesperson for the club said: “It’s safe to say everyone has missed football over the past few months, and we eagerly look forward to welcoming you back to the home of The Magpies now that restrictions are starting to be relaxed and it is safe for non-league football to return.

“On the pitch, The Magpies squad met up at The Avenue for the first time last week, and now there is a planned start date for the first league fixture, it has been confirmed pre-season training will commence on Tuesday 11 August.

“With the planned start for the 2020/21 season now known, information on season tickets, admission prices and sponsorship opportunities – including the Patrons Draw and stadium sponsorship – will also start to be announced soon.

“We will continue to do our best to keep all supporters informed with the latest developments through our website and social media channels over the upcoming weeks.”