BANGOR City president Dominico Serafino has outlined his “sadness and despair” regarding the coronavirus pandemic that is severely impacting his homeland.

The Italian native took over at the helm of the Citizens’ from VSM Management earlier this season, but the club’s recent improvements have been hampered with the suspension of domestic fixtures due to COVID-19.

Italy has been hardest hit by the virus, with 4,825 recorded coronavirus deaths as of Saturday, March 21.

Serafino, said: “The very sad news from Italy throws us into despair each day.

“Right now, we are suffering here in Wales when we hear the news coming from our home country.

“Every day it sounds like a war bulletin with more and more of our countrymen passing away each day from this vile virus.

“At this moment in time we would like to be with our loved ones, because we are worried about this virus that is scourging our Italy.

“We are also concerned about how the virus is now taking hold in Wales. Our prayers are with all those families and friends affected by this hideous virus.”

The City president also thanked the community for their messages of support in recent days, and for the warm welcome he has received from the fanbase during his time at the club.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the citizens of Bangor and Wales and further afield who have in recent days sent us messages of solidarity, who want to help us in some way by showing us their affection and closeness knowing that we are thousand miles from our native homes,” added Serafino.

“These are very sad days, but I am sure that we are all together united in the face of adversity and will come out at the end of this situation a stronger, closer and more united society than ever before.”

Pedro Pasculli’s side were on a tremendous run of form prior to the suspension, with their good form propelling them to fifth position in the JD Cymru North standings.