The Thames Valley Premier League has announced that fixtures for Divisions One to Four have been provisionally postponed until October.
The Step 7 competition released a statement that following consultation with pitch providers, competition will not commence due to the current drought and pitch availability.
It is an unprecedented situation in grassroots football and the TVPL isn’t the only competition affected. The Anglian Combination League in Norfolk and Suffolk has postponed its start date with more expected to follow.
The 16 team TVPL Premier Division campaign is expected to start sooner with more teams having facilities able to water and treat pitches which as sporting venues, are not covered by Thames Waters hosepipe ban.
The statement from the Thames Valley Premier League says: “Following the recent drought and the significant impact on pitch conditions and availability across the county, fixtures for TVPL Divisions 1–4, including Division 1 Reserves, have been provisionally postponed until Saturday 3rd October.
“The situation will be reviewed weekly from 4th September in consultation with pitch providers.
“If conditions improve and pitches recover, the season start date may be brought forward, with clubs receiving a minimum of two weeks’ notice.
“The first review will take place on 4th September and, should conditions allow, fixtures will be scheduled from Saturday 19th September.
“We appreciate this will be disappointing for clubs, players and supporters eager to get the new season underway. Thank you to everyone for your patience, understanding and cooperation while we navigate the situation.
“Further updates will be provided following each review.”
