Grassroots football to return to Buckinghamshire and Aylesbury Vale

Liz Verrall, CEO of the local FA has said she was absolutely thrilled to get the 2020-21 season up and running after the long delay.

She thanked supporters for their patience and continued support,

Liz wrote:

"It is finally here; the return of grassroots football and we are thrilled to welcome you back for the 2020-21 season albeit with certain restriction in place. After the frustration of the last season We can clearly see the excitement starting to build within our clubs as we all ready ourselves for a new season.

"We would like to thank you for your patience and your continued support of your members during a very strange time, the way clubs have adapted and remained the centre of the community is humbling and reminds us all what power football can have even if a ball could not be kicked.

"What we do not know is what the future holds, we are aware that clubs and leagues may be under increased pressure to complete their seasons in a shorter timeframe with the potential for localised lockdowns, winter surges in infection and weather to delay play.

"As a result of the uncertainty, and to allow clubs and leagues to recover and rebuild, the Board of Directors have unanimously agreed to withdraw the County Cup competitions for the 2020-21 season.

"We are saddened that we have had to make the decision but we are encouraged too by the opportunities this gives for Berks & Bucks FA to review and improve the cup competition experience for all involved.

"The new and improved County cup programme will be back.

"Currently, Berks & Bucks FA are still working at a reduced capacity and still working from home with a large proportion of the staff still on furlough.

"We therefore, ask to make use of email and mobile numbers as we are not able pick up calls from the office phones.

"We hope that in the coming weeks and months a sense of normality will return for the organisation and we will be back to strength.

"We appreciate your patience during this time, although I do want to credit the incredibly hard working team that have been in operation right the way through this period and who have continued to maintain extremely high standards, demonstrating how much they care about football and the people involved in the game while balancing the pressures presented to all of us during Covid-19.

"I do hope you enjoy the summer break, stay safe and we look forward to seeing you back on the pitch shortly."