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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Dan Kilpatrick

Football authorities pledge almost £10m to grassroots game to help maintain pitches during lockdown

The grassroots game has come under significant pressure during the lockdown. (Picture: Getty Images)

The Premier League, the FA, the government and Sport England have pledged £9.56million to support grassroots football during the pandemic.

The fund, which will be distributed by the Football Foundation, provides relief for clubs and organisations who are struggling to maintain their pitches due to the loss of normal revenue streams.

Grassroots football clubs and organisations from across the men and women's game in England and Wales can all apply for up to £5,000 of funding each before May 25 and the hope is that 4,000 will benefit in total.

The FA this week revealed £75m cuts amid projected losses of £300m during the crisis but chief executive Mark Bullingham said: "These are extraordinary and challenging times not just for football, but across society and as always, our first thoughts are with those families affected.

"We remain committed to supporting clubs during this uncertain period and that’s why The FA has joined forces with the Premier League and Government to create this new initiative.”

Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: "This funding from the Government, the Premier League and The FA will help clubs upgrade their facilities so they are ready to go as soon as it’s safe to start playing again."

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