ISTHMIAN League chairman Nick Robinson admits it is unlikely the season will be able to recommence early next month.

East Thurrock United, Aveley, Grays Athletic and Tilbury were not in action at the weekend due to the Isthmian League calling off scheduled clashes as a result of the coronavirus epidemic.

The Isthmian League originally postponed fixtures set to take place last weekend and in midweek, but the suspension of the campaign has been extended.

In a statement posted on the Isthmian League’s website, Robinson said: “Following statements from the UK Government, as well as statements from The FA, the Leagues forming steps one to four of the National Leagues system with representatives of steps five to six met by conference call and decided that all matches be suspended until April 3.

“The Isthmian League board also met by video conference and agreed that all matches, including the Development League, the Youth League and Cup, the Women’s Cup and the Isthmian League Cup be suspended until that date.

“The likelihood is that matches will not start again on April 4 and, in the meantime, the League will work with all others in the game to ensure that clubs are kept up to date with the latest information.

“It cannot be stressed too much that these are unprecedented times.

“The board will do what it can to ensure that football can recommence as soon as possible and that the League does not put more pressure on clubs financially while the future is unknown.”

The Isthmian League’s decision came after Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged the public to avoid gatherings in order to slow down the spread of Covid-19.

And the Football Association, following the Prime Minister’s press conference on Monday, advised all grassroots football in the country to be postponed for the foreseeable future.

The FA’s statement read: “Following the Government’s announcement for people to avoid social contact and gatherings where possible, we are now advising that all grassroots football in England is postponed for the foreseeable future.

“Throughout this period, we have taken Government advice with the priority being the health and wellbeing of all. We will continue to work closely with the grassroots game during this time. We are in communication with the Government and the situation within English football at all levels remains under regular review.”