THE Football Association of Wales (FAW) has announced that football clubs operating in tier two (JD Cymru North/JD Cymru South) will not play this season.

A start date of March 27 had been proposed for teams at that level to begin their 2021 campaigns - with each club playing other just the once to reduce the amount of fixtures having to be played over a two month period between March and May

However, despite certain restrictions for sports such as tennis, golf and basketball being lifted, no such rules have been changed for football and as a result, the National Sports Group (NSG) has decided not to re-instate 'elite status' for tier two leagues.

That means clubs such as Ruthin Town, Prestatyn Town, Colwyn Bay, Conwy Borough and Llandudno will have to wait until awhile longer before they return to the pitch.

A statement from the FAW on the matter read: "The Football Association of Wales has received clarification that the JD Cymru North and JD Cymru South have not had their ‘Elite Status’ designation reinstated by the National Sport Group (NSG).

"As a result, the 2020/21 season has been cancelled for these competitions due to the ongoing public health crisis and the current Welsh Government COVID-19 alert level, leaving insufficient time to safely complete a reduced season.

"The NSG includes representation from Sport Wales, Welsh Sports Association, Commonwealth Games and the Welsh Government.

"The FAW fully understands the frustrations felt by many throughout the country of not being able to play, volunteer and support their clubs. However, these are unprecedented times and the FAW is not responsible for the national COVID-19 policies and guidelines, which are in place to keep the nation as safe as possible.

"The FAW continues to encourage that everyone follows the Welsh Government guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19."

Although clubs in Wales' top-flight continue to play, it is as yet unclear as to when other senior sides throughout the Welsh footballing system can return to action.

The FAW have however added that, if public health conditions continue to be favourable, then children's footballing activities, can resume from March 27 with guidance in place to keep all involved safe.