DORSET has this afternoon been moved into Tier 3 of the national Covid-19 restrictions, but what does this mean for football in the county?

Currently, 'elite' football can continue play without spectators.

Weymouth are the only elite team in the Dorset Council area and must now play behind closed doors at the Bob Lucas Stadium.

Rules for 'non-elite' clubs are more relaxed as teams can admit up to 15 per cent of their socially-distanced stadium capacity.

This rule applies to Dorchester Town, Portland United and Bridport due to their position in Steps 3 to 6 of the National League System (NLS).

In Tier 3, the following additional guidelines apply for football teams.

Fans of 'non-elite' clubs must stay two metres apart grouped in a single household, one row deep with even spread.

To prevent clusters of fans in stands, only 15 or 30 per cent of supporters can spectate in covered seating or terraced areas.

Grassroots football, such as the Dorset Premier League, can continue but travel in or out of Tier 3 areas is banned, excluding youth football.

The same travel restrictions apply to fans wishing to support their team going to or leaving a Tier 3 area.