'BARROW AFC is more than a football club, it is the backbone of our community' - that was the sentiment of the town's MP as he addressed the Let Fans In debate.

Barrow and Furness MP Simon Fell wants to see football fans allowed back into stadiums after the lockdown has finished.

Speaking at the Let Fans In debate, Mr Fell urged ministers to work with clubs such as AFC, to ensure the return of supporters safely.

Mr Fell said: “I’ve been talking to Levi Gill, the chief executive at Barrow AFC and he is explicit, they don’t want a bail out. They want to stand on their own two feet. They want to reopen and they want to do it safely and, in a Covid-secure way. They want to see the fans brought back in.

“I very much hope that the minister is able to work close with clubs like Barrow AFC to come to a result, at the end of this current lockdown, that keeps people safe, but allows clubs and communities to stand on their own two feet.”

Fans have not entered stadiums since March.

Furthermore, only Premier League and Championship continued their regular season games.

This meant that The Bluebirds’ fans were unable to watch their side get promoted to the Football League as champions of the National League after a points per game system was applied to the shortened 19/20 season.

However, as The Bluebirds returned to action for the 20/21 season, without fans, Mr Fell said the club was vital to Barrow’s community.

He said: “For many people their health, both mental and physical, goes hand-in-hand with being able to follow their beloved club especially now and in these really trying times. Barrow AFC is more than a football club, it is the backbone of our community. It is a significant local employers and community hub.

“The Barrow AFC Community Trust delivers physical activity, leadership and core skills to local schools.

“It is no exaggeration to say that The Bluebirds carry the spirit of the town and the community on their shoulders.”