Notts County fans will be back at Meadow Lane next weekend for the first time since March.
Up to 1,000 supporters will be allowed into the stadium for the Magpies’ pre-season friendly against York City on Saturday, September 26, as part of a test events programme to pilot the safe return of crowds to sporting fixtures.
The last time Notts fans were able to watch their team in action inside the ground was on March 14.
That was last season’s 4-0 victory over Eastleigh, before football was suspended and the country went into lockdown due to the coronavirus crisis.
But the National League have today released a statement about upcoming test events.
It said: “The National League has received approval for its clubs to hold test events as part of a wider programme to pilot the safe return of spectators to sporting fixtures.
“The confirmed matches are as follows:
“Tuesday 22 September: Dagenham & Redbridge v Concord Rangers; Yeovil Town v Bath City; Dartford v Dover Athletic.
“Saturday 26 September: Notts County v York City (3pm).
“Each will be limited to up to 1,000 fans and will be staged in accordance with government and Sports Ground Safety Authority guidance on social distancing, and subject to local safety advisory group approval.
“Each match is arranged as a friendly fixture.”
Notts say 2019-20 season ticket holders and seasonal hospitality members can enter a ballot to secure a seat.
Tickets will be priced at £5, with fans to be stationed in the Derek Pavis Stand and no away supporters permitted.
The club say more details will be announced later today about the ballot system.
CEO Jason Turner, said: “We’re delighted to be one of a few clubs selected to represent the National League in a programme which will hopefully pave the way for Government to reintroduce supporters to football stadiums at competitive matches across the country.
“Unfortunately it’s inevitable that some of our supporters will miss out on the opportunity to attend this match but we will be working hard today to put the necessary processes in place to ensure as fair a ballot as possible.
“A further announcement will follow tonight and, in the meantime, I kindly ask supporters not to contact the club as we will be unable to provide any further details to what has been outlined above. I would also remind everyone that the ticket office remains closed.”
