With all National League clubs waiting for a vote on the future of their season, the league’s first communication on Monday was to promote a petition over the lack of additional government funding.

National League South Ebbsfleet were one of the first clubs in the league to support the move on their Twitter platform.

The National League want clubs to help persuade the government to change its mind on offering loans rather than grants in the second tranche of funding.

Ebbsfleet said: “We encourage all Ebbsfleet supporters to sign the petition and please share it across all your social media platforms.”

In the petition the league says: “National League clubs are facing catastrophe and a perilous situation in the next few days.

“We need a sustainable lifeline that does not leave clubs facing future ruin.

“After changing the terms of its support in the middle of the season, the government must reverse its decision to offer loans and now fulfil its promise of a new grant.

“Our clubs play an immeasurable role in communities all over the UK and provide immense structures of support for many.

“Current government loan offers have moved the financial goalposts mid-season and jeopardised the future of our clubs.

“Without adequate and fair funding, the National League will not survive, with consequences felt by thousands of players, supporters and club staff across the UK for many years to come.”

The move comes against a backdrop of clubs waiting for to vote on whether to continue the season or declare it null and void.

At least 16 National League South and North clubs have already said they want the season to be terminated if no further grant funding is made available.

Clubs have been told that fixtures in National League South and North will resume this weekend – but clubs will want guarantees in place before taking on extra costs of player wages and hosting matches.

Read more: All the latest sports news in Kent