PLANS to allow clubs in Vanarama National Leagues North and South to continue their seasons have been rejected.

A proposed mini-league was put forward by teams who wanted to play on, following the decision to declare both leagues null and void last month.

Oxford City, who were fourth in National League South, were among the clubs who wanted to continue.

But the FA's Alliance Committee today decided to reject the plans and backed the cancellation of National Leagues North and South - step two of the National League System - with no promotion or relegation.

It also means no relegation from the National League, where clubs voted to continue.

The decision will require FA Council approval.

An FA statement read: "Consideration was also given to an alternative sporting solution at step two in line with a proposal submitted by certain step two clubs that wished to continue playing.

"The Alliance Committee rejected the proposal, and any alternative, in the interest of the integrity of the National League System.

"Further reasons for this decision will be communicated directly to clubs in due course."

It is understood the combined mini-league would have seen clubs play each other once, with the champions promoted automatically and another via play-offs. 

Last month, 24 of the 43 clubs at step two voted to declare their seasons null and void after the National League's £10m slice of the government's winter survival package expired.

The competition was only promised loans for the remainder of the season, while no regular Covid testing programme was in place.