Following the announcement of the latest Lockdown CEO Ian Mather explains what this means for Cambridge United Football Club.
The first thing to say is that this is different to Lockdown One. Then we didn't know how that would unfold. We were not allowed to play football and we didn't know when we would be able to start. The club immediately lost gate income and we were getting to grips with the idea of furloughing staff. We, along with most other football clubs, faced a very difficult financial as well as a health crisis. In the period since March the measures we put in place mean that we are confident will see our way through to a time when life returns to something like normal.
We are allowed to carry on with fixtures and we have in place strict rules to keep all of our players and staff as safe as can be. We are currently assessing the implications of the lockdown for our youth football programme and we will be contacting youth players and parents about necessary changes to the programme shortly.
Our key message to fans is first and foremost a wish that you stay safe and well, and secondly one of thanks for your continued support, which really has been overwhelming and will continue to be vital throughout 2021.
The coming weeks will be difficult for many, therefore should anyone feel the need to talk, please know that we are here for you. Our fantastic Community Trust did a tremendous job in supporting our local community through Lockdown One with the Here For U's campaign. Once again they are rallying to be a support mechanism for those who require support physically, practically or emotionally in the coming days, weeks or months until we see this through. Full details will be communicated shortly however the Community Careline number for those wishing to access support from 9-5pm on weekdays will remain the same: 01223 632129
We all look forward to the day when we can open the doors of the Abbey to all of you. In the meantime we will continue to look after your club.