HEREFORD United have been suspended by the Football Association with immediate effect.

Football's governing body have acted after the Bulls twice failed to comply with the owners’ and directors’ test regulations.

They were originally given until 4pm last Thursday by the Independent Regulatory Commission to meet criteria, a deadline extended until 4pm on Monday after the Edgar Street club submitted documents.

However, they have not provided further requested documents and are now banned from all football and football activity.

It means their Southern League Premier Division trip to Dunstable Town will not go ahead unless they comply.

Alan McCarthy was also suspended by the FA for non-compliance although he has since stepped down as majority shareholder after his firm Alpha Finance relinquished their shares in the club.

Hereford chairman Andy Lonsdale has now confirmed he is the new owner.

An FA statement said: "Having failed to provide the requested further documentation by the deadline, both Hereford United and Mr McCarthy shall remain suspended until such time as the order of the Independent Regulatory Commission has been complied with to the satisfaction of the Commission.

"The FA understands the importance of football clubs to their local communities and will continue to work with all relevant parties to ensure senior football returns to Hereford at the earliest opportunity, although this will be contingent on the club complying with the regulations and subsequent orders of the Independent Regulatory Commission."