I’m a passionate supporter of the beautiful game.

So, I was extremely disappointed with the Football Association’s decision to move Northwich Victoria FC sideways from North West Counties league to the Midland League.

Increased travel will hit loyal fans in the pocket and make it harder to recruit players.

Winsford United are in the same boat and have applied for relegation to remain in the local league, as the only way to ‘save the club’.

Vics have decided to accept the decision after losing an appeal, urging fans to rally behind them. I’m meeting with the FA soon to discuss matters further.

This episode highlights a broader issue: the disproportionate focus on Premier League teams (full disclosure, I’m a Manchester United fan. In a former life I helped FC United secure their ground).

While top-tier clubs command vast resources, grassroots football clubs often operate on the edge of survival.

Government has acknowledged such concerns in response to a fan-led review but draft legislation is a step in the right direction not a radical shake-up and progress has been painfully slow.

The White Paper proposes an independent regulator with targeted powers to step in and resolve how money flows from the Premier League. But rather than ‘trickle down’, I’d like to see wealth shared right across the piece.

There is more recognition for the role of fans in the running of clubs and key heritage such as team names, badges and stadia. But the fans’ voice should be at the very heart of football.

Clubs like Northwich Victoria and 1874 Northwich FC, which are owned and run by supporters, are beacons of inspiration, already leading the way.

And let’s not forget Witton Albion FC, Vics' historic rivals, with whom they share a ground.

Grassroots clubs like Witton Albion play a vital role in our communities, supporting local charities and promoting health and fitness.

To end, people in my constituency cherish football at all levels. Many of us are looking forward to the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

That’s why Government needs to get on with implementing legislation to protect the beautiful game and I’d like to see the proposed law strengthened.

We must strive for a football ecosystem where riches are not limited to the elite few but shared more widely to nurture the growth and sustainability of all clubs.