The Pilgrims are fourth in National League North with 10 games to play and are currently scheduled to return to action on Saturday April 4 against Spennymoor Town, although further updates will be issued in due course.

Reflecting on the suspension of the competition by the National League, Mr Newton said: "We fully support the decision taken by the National League. It is incumbent on us all to take the difficult but necessary decisions to help prevent the spread of the Coronavirus.

"Clearly this will have implications around the actual competition, but I do not expect any further information around that at the present time as it is an evolving picture and decisions cannot be made until there is some certainty around how the spread of the virus is progressing and the likely impact on the resumption of games.

"This is a very challenging time for all clubs as we now have no income. We are seeking guidance about players’ payments from the National League and FA, but understandably that information has not come forward yet as things are moving very quickly.

"We are managing the situation as best we can and are mindful that many other businesses find themselves in very similar circumstances, but the main thing is that we try to keep as many people as fit and healthy as possible, and try to avoid spreading the virus to the more vulnerable in our society.

"As always, the football family WILL come together, but unfortunately this is spread much wider than football.

"The country has been through very difficult times in the past — and come through. I am sure that if we all play our part, we will do the same and not only come through, but come through as a better and more caring society.

"The best advice I heard the other day was to 'live like you have the virus and are trying not to pass it onto others, rather than trying not to catch it yourself…'

"We will update you as we have more information. Stay safe everyone."

The latest government advice regarding Coronavirus can be accessed here.