CLUBS struggling financially with the impact of the coronavirus lockdown can now apply for extra funding from Sport England.

Up to £20million has been made available to help make up the shortfall being felt by the sudden restrictions on daily life.

Virtually all sports clubs in Oxfordshire will have been affected in one way or another, whether it is the loss of gate receipts, facilities hire or bar takings.

It has not taken long for them to feel the strain, with Didcot Town and Ardley United launching fundraising campaigns.

Sport England's Community Emergency Fund is aiming to deliver immediate relief to those most in need, who do not have to be already supported by the organisation.

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It is also open to community sector organisations which enable physical activity.

Awards will range from £300 to £10,000, although in exceptional circumstances it could be higher.

The money can then be used on a range of areas, including fixed costs which are now no longer covered, such as rent, utilities and insurance.

It covers losses dating back to March 1 and is designed to work alongside other measures brought in by the government aimed at small businesses, including the furlough scheme.

The fund is part of a £195m bundle of measures from Sport England.

Chief executive Tim Hollingsworth said: “We want the sector not just to come through this crisis but to be in a position to thrive again in the future and this package will ease the pressure on a huge number of the organisations who are central to that.”

Are you part of a club which intends to apply for the award? Get in touch by emailing sportsdesk@oxfordmail.co.uk.