NATIONAL League clubs were assured yesterday that the 2021/22 will not start without fans or suitable grant funding.

At the league's annual general meeting, held via conference call, the likely impact of the coronavirus pandemic on next season was a salient point on the agenda.

All clubs have been surveyed for their views on the potential implications which could arise during the course of the next campaign.

It was also revealed that contingency plans are being discussed for the event that season cannot be completed in its entirety. The league will be meeting with clubs to finalise these arrangements.

The league also recognised that there is still disquiet from many clubs in a number of areas and has said it is committed to meet with all clubs to address these issues in the very near future.

From the National League, there will be only three sides relegated next season in order to make up a 24-team division for the 2022/23 campaign.

There has been no change to the league structure in National League North and National League South from last season.

However, to accommodate an increase to 24 clubs in each division from the 2022/23 campaign, three clubs collectively will be relegated from Step 2 to Step 3 and replaced by eight promoted teams.

An ordinary resolution was voted in favour of by member clubs to introduce a salary cap from the 2022/23 season.

A working party represented by clubs will consult with the aim of bringing a full proposal to the 2022 extraordinary general meeting for the membership to vote on.

A second ordinary resolution was also voted in favour of by member clubs for the National League to form a standards/ethics committee as part of the league’s governance structure.

The National League will draw up terms of reference for the committee in consultation with all member clubs to be approved at a future general meeting.

National League clubs appointed three directors following a vote taken prior to the AGM.

Richard Simkin of Stockport County and Chesterfield’s Martin Thacker MBE will join the board for the first time, while Aldershot Town chairman Shahid Azeem regains his position for a third term.

A statement added: "The board wishes to place on record its thanks to departing director Anthony Kleanthous for his dedicated service over many years."