IN reply to Derek Jago’s letter about spectator limits at Bishop Auckland’s Heritage Park because of the pandemic (HAS, Oct 20), I would like to state the facts.
It is the FA which sets the ground capacity for all Step 5 clubs at 1,000 (based on the average Step 5 clubs throughout the country).
Bishop Heritage Park has a capacity of 2,004. Others at Step 5 have less.
Step 5 clubs are currently allowed 15 per cent of 1,000 (150). The Northern League is Step 5.
These capacities have nothing to do with Northern League decisions at all and to blame the League is unfair and incorrect. Out of 150 spectators, the League rules that 10 per cent (15) must be allocated to away supporters if tickets are sold for entry. That rule has been the case when full capacity was allowed.
Hopefully, soon the FA will allow 30 per cent capacity (300), but that will depend on a fall in Covid cases.
May I, as Bishop secretary, thank David Bowes for his letter (HAS, Oct 14) congratulating our club for the live free streaming of the Bishops v West Auckland match which allowed West supporters to see their team. We appreciate that.
I hope this clears up any queries your readers have about this issue.
Tony Duffy, Bishop Auckland
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