Match referee Ross Joyce has revealed the Holker Street pitch was ‘playable’ when he arrived at the ground just before 4.00pm on Tuesday.

Barrow’s game against Exeter City was eventually called off, despite the best efforts of groundsmen to sort the club’s frozen pitch.

After postponing the League Two fixture, both clubs accepted that it was necessary to protect their sides.

Joyce said: “I arrived at 3.50pm and if we kicked off at that time then the pitch was playable.

“We had a little concern the temperatures that were due to come after that were due to go to minus one.

“We brought the kick-off to half six to give the game every opportunity.

“Unfortunately, the pitch, because of the temperatures, has become really crispy and the far touchline has become dangerous so we’ve had a chat with both clubs and managers and we’ve come to the agreement for players’ safety that the game won’t take place this evening.

“It is a difficult decision, I understand the frustration as why it has been left so late, but I think we have done the right thing to give the game every opportunity especially with Exeter’s travel.

“Both clubs were consulted on it and both clubs have agreed with the decision.”

As a result, Barrow remain in 22nd position in League Two, two points above Grimsby Town in the relegation zone, with two games in hand over The Mariners.

Michael Jolley’s side next face promotion-chasing Forest Green Rovers this Saturday.