The Uhlsport Hellenic League have suspended parts of the Football Associations Respect campaign in light of the Coronavirus, starting with Tuesday nights midweek fixtures.
A statement posted on the official league website says: In view of Coronavirus and following guidance issued by the Public Health Authorities, the the uhlsport Hellenic League Executive Committee have decided that handshakes before and after matches will be suspended until further notice. This includes:
- The pre-match handshakes as part of the RESPECT campaign by players and officials
- Handshakes by captains and officials at the toss of the coin prior to the start of the match
- Handshakes by players and officials after the final whistle
This will take effect from today (3 March) until further notice. Please ensure all appropriate Club Official and Match Officials are made aware of this.
The virus has seen matches in Italy’s Serie A postponed or played behind closed doors while the Ireland vs Italy Six Nations rugby match due to be played in Dublin at the weekend has been postponed.
Football in Berkshire is not aware of any Football Association advice at present but we’ll certainly share it as and when we see it. The latest advice on the Coronavirus can be found on the Public Health England website here.
A spokeswoman at the Berks & Bucks County FA said: “The Football Association has not released specific guidance at this time. In the meantime, the BBFA would encourage people to follow the latest advice provided by the UK Government, Public Health England and NHS England in relation to the coronavirus at www.nhs.uk and www.gov.uk“
Update: The Spartan South Midlands League and Essex Senior League have issued similar advice.
A full list of all the midweek fixtures is here.