THE borough's four non-League sides look set to continue to be sidelined from competitive league action, possibly until the new year, after a vote today.

Aveley, East Thurrock United, Grays Athletic and Tilbury all play in the Isthmian League which was one of three leagues to meet today to consider when clubs can resume playing.

The Isthmian, Northern Premier and Southern Leagues have released a joint statement which says: "The clubs in membership of the Northern Premier, Southern and Isthmian Leagues (the Trident Leagues) met earlier this week to consider the challenges and issues brought about by the reintroduction of tiers after the raising of the nationwide lockdown with effect from yesterday (Wednesday, 2 December).

"The clubs were asked to vote on a proposition that the pause in fixtures be continued with a regular review in light of changes to the tiers and/or grants becoming available.

"The total votes cast by the 224 clubs show a substantial number of Clubs in agreement with the proposition. The matter has been considered today by all concerned and a further statement will be issued in due course."

Aveley will be in competitive action on Tuesday (8 December) when they entertain Hastings United in the FA Trophy first round.

And the Millers will host a friendly on Saturday when East Thurrock visit Parkside. Grays Athletic will be playing at Hornchurch in a friendly.

Meanwhile Grays striker Darelle Russell had left the club to sign for Aveley.

Russell has been with Athletic since the summer, signing in August from Braintree Town. Hew previously played for Barking, Cheshunt, Haringey Borough, Billericay Town and Waltham Abbey, making twenty six appearances for the Abbotts last season and scoring ten goals. He played six times for Grays this season.