AN MP and football club shareholder has welcomed Premier League support for grassroots teams.

Lewes MP Maria Caulfield said she is pleased the Premier League announced its Matchday Support Fund to help non-league teams prepare for the safe return of supporters to their stadiums.

All teams in the National League System and Women’s Pyramid will be eligible for the fund, including Lewes FC, where Ms Caulfield is a shareholder.

“I have recently visited Lewes FC, Lewes FC Women and Seaford Football Club and held discussions with them about the challenges faced by grassroots football clubs,” she said.

“I have raised these issues with the Premier League and am therefore pleased that they have listen to my representations and will be helping grassroots clubs to survive these challenges and welcome back fans.”

The fund will pay for signage and additional stewards, implementing new ticketing systems and the purchase of contactless payment technology.

Ms Caulfield also welcomed the new Pitching In programme from Ladbrokes and Coral owner GVC.

The programme will invest in the Isthmian and Southern Leagues.