Hopes high for Hearts and Hibs fans return after England decision

Scottish football authorities have pledged to raise the return of fans back to grounds around the country urgently – after England revealed plans for a limited return of crowds.

When restrictions ease across the border on December 2 up to 4000 spectators will be permitted to attend outdoor events.

Bans will still be in place for areas with the highest restriction levels, with England’s tier 2 territories allowed up to 2000 inside grounds. The lowest level of restriction would allow 4000 while indoor attendances would also be permitted outwith the highest restriction zones.

The decision has prompted the Scottish Football Joint Response Group to seek detail from the Scottish Government on plans for similar proposals and follows a similar call from Aberdeen chief Dave Cormack on Saturday.

England has announced plans for fans to return to stadia, prompting urgent action from Scottish football (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

A spokesperson for the JRG, made up of representatives from across the Scottish Football Association and Scottish Professional Football League, said: “The news that clubs in England can prepare for the return of supporters is clearly extremely positive, and we will be seeking further urgent talks with the Scottish Government to establish a roadmap to getting fans safely back into Scottish grounds as soon as possible.

“Many of our clubs are in extremely precarious positions, given the enormous reliance on gate income in the Scottish game.

“Getting Scottish fans back into watch their beloved local clubs in the open air, in a controlled and carefully-regulated way, is absolutely essential for the future of Scottish clubs.”

Following the country’s council areas being categorised into tiered levels of restriction, Ross County were permitted supporters for a Friday night match with Livingston in Tier 1 Highland Council area.

Clubs including Hibs and Hearts, have attempted to fill their stands - and match income streams - in various ways (Photo by Rob Casey / SNS Group)

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