Fans set to return to sporting events in low-risk areas from December

The news is a huge boost to rugby league clubs from Super League to the Championship, with the 2021 season to begin sometime in March.

There were fears that after the 2020 Super League season was played behind closed doors from August and the Championship season was curtailed by the lack of supporters, that next season would begin without fans present.

Outdoor stadiums in tier one areas can host a maximum of 4,000 spectators while venues in tier two areas will be restricted to 2,000 spectators.

Tier three areas will still not be allowed to host any fans but with four months until the 2021 season begins, there is time for areas to get the virus under control and welcome crowds back in time for the beginning of the campaign.

MPs are expected to vote on the proposals later this week.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made the announcement to the House of Commons on Monday, with supporters largely locked out of stadia - barring a handful of pilot events - since March.

“In Tiers one and two spectator sports and business events will be free to resume inside and outside with capacity limits and social distancing,” he said.

The national lockdown ends on December 2 and the Government will announce which areas will enter which tiers on that date on Thursday after they have access to the latest coronavirus data.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “This is a big step forward for sport. Bringing grassroots sport back was my number one priority so I’m pleased we are reopening sports and gyms in every tier, in recognition of the significant health benefits.

“I’m also delighted we are able to get the turnstiles turning sooner than expected, taking a cautious approach and starting with the lowest risk areas first.

“I’m confident that sports will take every step to ensure their fans are safe, and fans will play their part and look out for each other until we can safely get everyone back in.”