IT looks increasingly likely that Axminster Town's league programme is over for this season due to clubs not being able to fulfil their fixtures when they eventually come out of lockdown.

The FA issued a statement last week to say that the survey of local clubs had been completed and they are now looking at recommendations before communicating with the league.

The Tigers compete in the South West Peninsular League Premier Division and Peninsula league secretary Phil Hiscox has indicated that it is unlikely that the season in its present format will be completed.

In a statement, he said: "Decisions have been delayed for us at Step Six in the football ladder and we are waiting to see what happens in the National League. 

'That ship has probably sailed'

"I don't think it will make any difference on whether we play again in the league this season, that ship has probably sailed, it's just whether they try to come up with a formula for promotion and relegation. 

"If the leagues above us don't finish their season, there will be no point in coming up with a formula for the Peninsula League. 

"I don't think this season can count for us because it was voided last year with more games played than this time around - the FA have set a precedent on that. 

"There is perhaps mileage in rolling over this season into next season, particularly if COVID is around to cause more disruption next winter because we could be in the same boat in 12 months' time.†

When the season was suspended Axminster Town were sitting in 18th place out of the 20 competing teams with only 12 games played.

Axminster Town Reserves in the Devon and Exeter League, leading the pack in Division Two East with 12 games left to play. A statement from the league is expected soon but few clubs are confident the season will be able to restart earlier enough to see all fixtures completed.

Seaton Town and Beer Albion compete in the D & E top level, Premier East. The Fishermen have 15 games to play with Seaton 14.

Lyme Regis 1sts are in the most serious position, having played just three league games before lockdown was introduced for a third time.

Lack of revenue a big issue for clubs

One big issue for some of the clubs is financial survival as they rely greatly on revenues which come from their clubhouse.

If a halt is called to the current season there is talk of setting up a local mini-league to play into the summer so that clubs can recoup some of the revenues they have lost.

Axminster Town have been actively fundraising despite the difficult circumstances by organising breakfasts at Tiger Way and they held an online hamper draw at Christmas which brought in £1,000 and have now launched a 50-50 club to boost funds.

Lyme launched an appeal to players, past and present, to raise money through personal sponsorship or donations which has raised nearly £4,000 which should see the Seasiders through to spring if their clubhouse has to remain close for all that time.