We are delighted to announce that our application for upward movement into the Northern Premier League has been accepted.
This means that from the start of the 2021/22 season we will be playing our football in the newly formed Northern Premier League Division One West.
We would like to place on record our thanks to the North West Counties for their support throughout our time in both Division One and the Premier League during the past eight years.
The decision to upwardly move the club finally gives both Wayne, Paul and the players the reward they deserve for a truly remarkable two years on the pitch; and also for our dedicated supporters, who work tirelessly to make the club what it is.
As a club it has always been our ambition to play at the highest-level available whilst being ran in a sustainable manner and we are thrilled that we have the opportunity to do so once again.
In a statement on behalf of our board by Chairman Steve Richardson, he said that the club is “over the moon,” by the decision.
“This is the just rewards for both the commitment and performances that the players, Wayne, Paul, Phil Lea, Andy Williams, Dave Stephenson and Jonathan Humble have put in consistently over a number of years!
“This group of players have made a steadfast commitment to the club and they deserve all the recognition and praise that they receive.
“We’re over the moon by the decision. We can continue to build on the 1874 story and take it forward to a new audience.
“I commend the FA for making this decision. We voiced our concerns at the way the 2019/20 season concluded, however this crucially allows the football pyramid to continue and move forward.
“I would like to thank our members, and supporters of the club who have stuck resolutely with the club throughout last year.
“This is a great moment for the club and now we’ve got to rise to the challenge of playing and operating at a higher level.”
Over the coming days we will bring you more reaction to our upward movement and announcements regarding our pre-season fixtures!