Following the Government directive (16 March) that the public should refrain from all but essential travel and that social contact should be minimised in an effort to delay the spread of COVID-19.

We then had subsequent advice from the England Hockey and East league and have made the decision to suspend all club activities.

Our primary concern is the health and well-being of our players and officials as well as that of the wider community.

As such we now have no option but to cancel all remaining fixtures, training and social hockey with immediate effect.

This will mean that the last league matches, junior tournaments and junior EHC group fixtures are cancelled.

The leagues are aware that there remain some outstanding promotion and relegation issues and a decision as to how these will be resolved will be made in the next few weeks.

The clubhouse will now be closed for all events.

For the avoidance of doubt this applies to junior, senior, social hockey, both men and ladies.

The AGMs will be rearranged for a later date.

The EOS party, the Junior End of Season Rush tournament and prize giving will also be rearranged.

Your support in the matter is appreciated and please keep safe

Braintree Hockey Club Committee