MELIDEN manager Gareth Jones is hoping grassroots clubs can pull through amid increasing uncertainty following the cancellation of the 2020/21 season.

The Miners worked hard to comply with Tier 4 regulations to take their place in the newly structured division, which will now not take place until next season following the Football Association of Wales’ ruling earlier this week.

Jones now fears lower league clubs across the country could end up folding due to a number of issues, which centres around a distinct lack of growing disinterest that has prevented any competitive football for almost a year.

Providing the leagues are permitted to begin in August in accordance with the original schedule, it will have been 18 months since a fixture at any level below to top-two tiers has been held.

Jones, said: “Although the FAWs decision to cancel the our season was predictable, there is still a massive feeling of disappointment.

“It’s been a difficult period for grassroots football and I sincerely hope that clubs don’t have to fold due to the lack of football with players, staff, volunteers and sponsors losing interest.”

Meliden have worked hard behind the scenes to improve the club’s structure and playing personnel, with a series of significant appointments from the previous regime at Prestatyn Town sure to provide some valuable experience in their pursuit of progression in the coming years.

Jones issued his thanks to his players and the hard-working volunteers during an unprecedented period of disruption, which he’s confident puts them in a strong position with some semblance of normality returns.

“Here at Meliden FC we’ve already started pressing forward with plans for the new season,” he added.

“With the appointments we’ve made to the coaching staff and the running of the club, I feel we will be in a strong position whenever football at our level resumes.

“My thanks go to the players, staff and club officials who have remained committed during this difficult period.”