THE National League have said that they are working with the Government to secure a ‘critical’ financial support package, and it is hoped ‘this can be announced very soon’.

“It is imperative the revenue shortfall caused by the pause to the safe return of spectators is responsibly addressed so each club can operate sustainably over the course of the forthcoming season,” said the National League in a statement.

National League North clubs, including Hereford, met on Wednesday and released a joint statement which said that 81 per cent of clubs would not want to start the season unless there was a financial package in place.

A joint statement said: “The meeting considered the impact of the FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round on the contractual status of players, many of whom have contracts that begin on the ‘commencement of the football season’.

“We are sure you are aware that clubs wrote these contracts based on information provided by the FA via the National League.

“The issue is, that should there be a delay to the National League North season then these contracts would be activated by the FA Cup fixture.

“This would leave clubs exposed to having to pay these players for the rest of the season with obvious financial implications.”

Meanwhile, Hereford United Supporters’ Trust (HUST) have donated another £5,000 to the club which takes the current total of shares owned by HUST to £230,000.