The popular Beacon Sunday afternoon league have confirmed a resumption of fixtures on Easter Sunday and league officials now hope to round off their 2020/21 season in two open age sections, writes Dave McLean.

This news follows the UK Government's update regarding the Covid19 roadmap for easing lockdown restrictions for a safer return to some grassroots sport across England from March 29.

General secretary of the Beacon league, David Clinton confirmed that remaining fixtures in the Paycare Eastern and Concentric Sales and Lettings Western divisions should be completed by early May, so providing an outcome in both groups.

"Within hours of the latest Government announcement we approached all clubs and I'm pleased to say we received a positive response to resume fixtures.

"As a committee we feel we can now complete this part of our programme and we are looking at a five week period in which to do so.

"We are delighted to be able to bring our season to a conclusion and I wish to thank all clubs for their support once again.

"As a result I think we will come back stronger and wiser as a leagie. I can also confirm we are already receiving interest from new teams for the 2021/22 season."

Due to the pandemic, the league took the decision last summer to run with two regional sections for the present campaign to help cut down on travel to matches, with teams playing each other once.

And this option now appears to have been a wise move in the current climate with just over 50 matches remaining overall to complete the main league programme.

The Paycare Eastern title battle, prior to the third lockdown, remains wide open with Essington AFC currently heading the pack, three points ahead of Claregate Park Rangers and Trysull Athletic who have both played a game less.

On the Concentric Western front, Sedgley Sporting are looking strong favourites after winning all six matches to date.

Next season could see another Beacon initiative with the introduction of a women's open age group.

Talks are currently taking place and any teams interested should contact Skye Stewart on 07939 987325 for more details.