Carlisle Futsal Club have brought forward their summer break after suspending training because of the coronavirus.

Club bosses say they will use the enforced break to plan and prepare for next season.

Their men’s team were chasing the title in the National Futsal League but they, along with sporting clubs across Cumbria and the country, have had to suspend games and training.

In a statement, club founder Al Tindall said: “This decision has not been taken lightly but the health and well-being of players, staff and supporters is paramount.

“On behalf of the club I would like to thank all of our members and all of the fans who have attended our National Futsal League games this season for your continued support and understanding and would re-iterate that health protection is the top priority for everyone at this moment.

“As a club we will continue to be in constant dialogue with the relevant authorities, and when in a position to do so, we will provide further updates.”

The decision follows Government advice on avoiding social contact.

The club said training is scheduled to resume on May 1 but if the situation is still the same by then, the club will suspend activities and cancel monthly membership fees until it is safe to reopen.

The postponement also covers the futsal club’s academy training and fixtures at centres in Carlisle, Workington and South Lakes.

“During the shut down our coaching team and committee members will be working on our plans for the new season,” the club added.

“We will continue to work to provide all of our members with the very best futsal experience which next season will include a new competition programme in the form of a county-wide junior league which will provide our academy players with competitive playing opportunities to enhance their learning and development.”

The outbreak of Covid-19 has affected sporting organisations big and small.

“We have been closely monitoring the governments advice so that we as a club can play our small part in helping to mitigate the impact that Covid-19 will have on wider society,” the futsal club added.

“Up until [Monday] evening the advice was to continue as normal, however this has now changed. As the cases have begun to increase the government is now advising increased social distancing and we anticipate that in due course a full lock down of society to be implemented.”

Anyone with any questions for the club during the shutdown is advised to call or WhatsApp 07816227302 or email info@carlislefutsal.com.