LOCAL league football across the Bradford district is set to be stopped after the FA advised the suspension of all grassroots football for the foreseeable future.

A statement on the FA website read: "We have issued a further update regarding the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on football in England.

"Following the Government’s announcement today, 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 regular communication with the Government and the situation within English football at all levels remains under regular review. Further updates will follow as needed."

The West Riding FA, personalising their statement, said: "To be clear, the advice is applicable to ALL football. This includes, but is not limited to, competitions, league fixtures, training and community events.

"All West Riding County Cup competition matches, Coach Education Courses, Referee Education Courses and face to face disciplinary hearings have been cancelled with immediate effect.

"All bookings of the West Riding County FA pitch have also been cancelled. Further updates on each of these programmes will be circulated.

"Until such time as the FA and/or Government mandates otherwise, sanctions (fines/suspensions) will not be issued by this association to groups who choose to continue facilitating participation.

"That being said, our advice to all in the game is that no football continues for the foreseeable time.

"We hope that clubs, leagues and community groups take this advice and apply it. Given the Government’s advice, we are confident that they will apply it."