THE start of York City's Vanarama National League North season is up in the air after the government's announcement of a "pause" to fans returning to stadiums from October 1.

Many football clubs has been planning to host supporters in a limited capacity from the beginning of next month, with test events taking place this month, including York City's trip to Notts County this Saturday.

But, cabinet office minister Michael Gove has confirmed that spectators attending matches from October 1 will now not go ahead.

York City's season is set to get underway next Saturday in the Emirates FA Cup before their 2020/21 league campaign commences with a home fixture against Chorley on Tuesday, October 6.

However, it has been widely reported that the National League has told clubs in its three divisions that they cannot start the season without fans because of the need for matchday revenue in order to survive.

The National League are expected to make a formal decision on the matter after their board meeting concludes on Thursday.