Worthing will contest a decision to end the non-league season early.

The BetVictor Isthmian leaders are among clubs unhappy time has already been called on the 2019-20 campaign.

Chairman Barry Hunter told fans his club are joining together with others to argue the season is completed when safe to do so.

In a statement, he said: “It has come to the club’s attention in the past 24 hours that the league's decision to call our season null and void is not final and is subject to further process and appeal.

“Accordingly, whilst we want to be cautious in managing expectations, its our intention to ensure our voice is heard.

“There are several ways we will do this, both individually as a club and collectively with a growing swathe of other clubs joining the cause. Indeed we are in touch and working with a number of clubs to deliver our message to the FA.

“Our view as a management committee is that, had we had the ability to provide input, we would have strongly advised that the season should not have been declared null and void. Instead, we unanimously agree that it should be allowed to conclude whenever safe to do so. That way a number of things could be achieved.

“One, it would be a fair way of concluding the season.

“Two, any implications and impact could be pushed into next season, where any treatment can be applied equally to everyone on a level playing field.

“Three, to be treated equally with all clubs throughout the football pyramid, including the professional and National league competition.”

Hunter expects developments to continue “with some pace”.

Worthing recently signed former Albion skipper Dean Hammond and were seven points clear, with sights set on National League south, when the halt came.

George Dowell, who has ploughed £800,000 into the club, said: “I am disappointed we weren’t given the same timescale to make a decision on the outcome of our season that the Premier League, EFL and National League have been awarded.”

Their West Sussex rivals Bognor are not among those who want the decision reversed.

Rocks chief Jack Pearce said: “I can understand the wishes of clubs who are most affected, which is those who are going for promotion.

“It’s impossible in these unprecedented times to make a decision that satisfies everybody so you have to satisfy the majority.”

Pearce said his club, like others, would be financially hit by the early finish having seen one-third of their home cancelled.