Horsham's inspiring supporters given upbeat message by club directors

The board have also expressed their sadness at the new lockdown, which leaves the team and The Camping World Community Stadium out of action until at least December 2. But they say they are determined to come out of lockdown in a position to continue offering great facilities for fans.

Horsham play in the Isthmian premier division - step three of the non-league game, the highest at which crowds have been permitted since the season started. With 600 the maximum crowd allowed at step three, the Hornets have been attracting high numbers for each of their home games in the league and cup.

A statement from the board said: "In common with all sport and leisure facilities and many other organisations across the UK, Horsham FC will sadly be closing the doors of our stadium during this new lockdown. The only exception will be for elite sports persons in accordance with the Government’s latest guidelines.

"Although it’s less than 12 weeks since we re-opened after the last lockdown back in mid-August, it has been inspiring to see the positive response from our supporters (both old and new) who have clearly welcomed the opportunity to watch live football when so little entertainment of any type has been available.

"Our first class team of paid staff and volunteers has worked tirelessly behind the scenes on the numerous measures we’ve introduced to create the safest possible environment in which to watch football, as well as to provide the best matchday experience, and all of them deserve our sincere thanks for their outstanding efforts.

"It’s due to them, as well as to our players, management and everyone else connected with the club, that we can be proud to be among the ten most supported clubs in the country – an amazing achievement bearing in mind that we haven’t even been at our new home for a full season yet!

"Inevitably, it’s sad that we have to suspend our operations once again, but we should all be excited about what’s to come once the current lockdown is lifted and football returns to the Camping World Community Stadium. It’s now our aim to make sure that we re-open with even higher standards and better facilities than before.

"On behalf of everyone at Horsham FC, may we express our sincere hope that you, your family and friends all stay safe and well during the next few weeks and that between us, we can maintain the same spirit of friendship and support for each other that we always see when we’re together."