Gloucester statement: Club placed in Tier 2

Gloucester Rugby have been placed in 'Tier 2' by the UK government, meaning they can start welcoming back fans to Kingsholm 'very shortly'.

Last week, as part of the country's anti-virus protocols, Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that venues in tier 1 and 2 areas would be allowed to admit supporters back on a "limited basis".

It's good news for professional rugby clubs, who still rely heavily on fan attendance for their profitability. Not least Gloucester, who say they are looking forward to the return of fans.

A statement from the club reads: "Today’s announcement from the Government noted that Gloucester will fall into Tier 2 under the new restrictions, coming into effect from 2 December.

"Therefore, Gloucester Rugby understands that this means we will be able to welcome 2000 supporters into Kingsholm for our game with Harlequins on Sunday 6 December.

"After being a key part of the pilot events in September, we are ready to welcome back supporters safely to Kingsholm. Preparations have been underway, and we are now working through the finer detail which we will share with supporters in due course.

"We appreciate your patience whilst we confirm this process, and we can’t wait to be able to welcome you back to Kingsholm very shortly."

The Government had been set to allow supporters into sports venues from October 1, but scrapped the plans after a rise in coronavirus infection rates nationwide.

Worcester’s match against Bath on Saturday, December 5 is the first Gallagher Premiership match which would be able to allow in spectators under the new rules.