York City have received a £30,000 boost after the Premier League’s donation of £1million to Football Conference member clubs.

The seven-figure sum will be shared out between the 68 Blue Square Premier, North and South clubs in recognition of the hardship caused by the collapse of the Setanta Sports’ television deal and the economic downturn.

It is a gesture that came less than 24 hours after American broadcasters ESPN decided against a deal to televise 25 live Conference fixtures this season.

City communications director Sophie Hicks said: “We are very pleased the Premier League has chosen to financially support clubs further down the football pyramid. This is a really generous and important contribution they have made at a key time.

“The collapse of Setanta has resulted in around £80,000 loss of income for York City this season. The £30,000 contribution we will receive helps to bridge this gap and relieve some of the financial pressure we are under.”

The Conference have reiterated their intention to secure a broadcast partner following the ESPN setback but welcomed the Premier League’s financial assistance.

Conference chairman Brian Lee said: “We are extremely grateful to the Premier League in demonstrating their support to our members at a time when our clubs are feeling the pinch not only at the loss of our TV contract but the decline of anticipated income due to the financial position generally.”

Outlining the reason for the support, Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore added: “The Premier League clubs discussed the current financial difficulties facing their counterparts in the Conference and were happy to be in the position to help them out with some financial support.

“The Football Conference is clearly an integral part of the football pyramid as well as being extremely important to local fans and communities – it was absolutely the right thing to do at this time.”