Chester breach Covid restrictions as their ground is in Wales
They had crowds of 2,000 on days following boxing day, but Welsh restrictions only allow outside gatherings of 50 people
Last updated 7th Jan 2022
English football team Chester FC have breached Welsh Covid restrictions as their ground lays on the Welsh side of the border.
The football club have hosted 2,000 people in two home games since Boxing Day, when the Welsh Government capped outdoor gatherings to 50 people.
The club's Deva Stadium home is located on the Sealand Road Industrial Estate and lies on the Welsh side of the border with England.
A crowd of 2,075 witnessed a 2-2 draw against Flyde on 28th December 2021, while a further 2,116 came to see a 1-1- on 2nd January 2022.
The side are next due to play at home when they host Brackley Town on January 15.
Currently there are no restrictions on outdoor gatherings in England, meaning that crowds can watch English sides at full capacity.
Given that Chester's stadium crosses in to the Welsh border, the Welsh Government has said that Welsh regulations were in force.
Professional sports are being played behind closed doors in wales due to an increase in coronavirus cases.
Chester FC were invited to a meeting this morning (7th January) where they were handed a joint letter on behalf of North Wales Police and Flintshire County Council which outlines potential breaches of Welsh Coronavirus Regulations.
The club have been told that if they continue to play home fixtures with crowds while the current restrictions in Wales remain in place they will be committing further breaches, despite the football club being under the jurisdiction of the English FA.
In a statement, Chester FC said: 'We were informed this was based upon direction from the Welsh Government that the premises of Chester Football Club are governed by the Welsh Regulations. The Welsh Government was not represented at the meeting.
'It was agreed that all parties would seek further legal advice given the complex issues and future implications of any outcome.
'We will provide a further update to our supporters as soon as we are able to.'