Majority of Latics staff placed on furlough

Amid the ongoing uncertainty created by the Coronavirus crisis, Latics chiefs have taken the tough decision to furlough a 'large majority' of Boundary Park staff.

On the pitch, the team hasn't played since a 3-0 League Two defeat at Crawley Town on March 7 due to the pandemic which has wiped out football across the globe.

Now, with little or no income badly affecting the game as a whole in the UK, Latics have taken the step to stand off-field staff down.

A club statement read: "First and foremost we hope all Latics supporters are safe and well in these troubling and uncertain times and would like to thank you for your support during this very challenging period.

"As football is in lockdown for the foreseeable future and no further changes due in the short-term, the club has taken the decision to use the government’s support system and in turn furlough a large majority of Oldham Athletic staff as a result of income streams being severely impacted.

"With Boundary Park also being closed to prevent the spread of the virus which is the priority at the moment, it has meant the workforce have been unable to carry out their usual duties and this decision will safeguard the future of the football club whilst also retaining our hardworking and committed workforce.

"The decision in essence puts the club into ‘hibernation’ like many others have done and once football resumes the club will be able to function again, whilst also offering all staff the support and guidance that is available at this moment in time.

"This also means there will be no further updates from the club via the website and social media until staff return.

"In the meantime, continue to be safe, follow the guidelines to help the NHS and stay at home where possible.

"Finally, for clarity, the Early Bird deadline for season tickets has now been extended to Monday, June 1, 2020 with renewals and purchases still available online and over the phone for those that want to do so.

"We understand though that more information is needed from the authorities including the FA and EFL on when and how football will return once it is safe."

If any fan has a query which is urgent and you need to contact the club, you can through the Managing Director on: Natalie.Atkinson@oldhamathletic.co.uk, or for ticketing directly please call 0161 785 5150 during the usual hours which are still in place.

Latics currently sit in 19th place in League Two.

The EFL season has been suspened until April 30 at the earliest.

Many punters fear the 2019/20 campaign will eventually be cancelled altogether.

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