WITH plans getting underway for the start of the 2023-24 season, NWCFL have confirmed the start date of a couple of their competitions with Barnoldswick Town's season getting underway on July 29.

Since the end of the 2022-23 season just a couple of weeks ago the league committee have been planning for the start of the new campaign but it must fit in with other competitions as well as various logistical requirements so that clubs are as ready as the NWCFL are to get going.

The plan is for the season to start on Saturday 29 July for all three Divisions; this will give clubs involved in the Emirates FA Cup at least one competitive fixture prior to their cup game.

NWCFL commented: “There are a few things that need sorting before we release fixtures. The season technically changes at League AGM's which take place around the middle of June, ours is no different, so when business is concluded and the new season and constitution are welcomed in, we will be working on fixtures. We estimate the end of June/beginning of July for these, and the reason being that we have to plan around ground-share arrangements between clubs higher up the NLS.

“Another competition we look forward to each season is the Reusch Champions Cup which takes place between our Premier Division Champions and our Macron Cup winners. This is our traditional season opening event and one that this summer will take place between Vauxhall Motors FC and Congleton Town. The game will take place on Saturday 22 July and will be hosted by Vauxhall Motors FC.

“That's where we are at so far and we will release further milestone dates over the summer as we are able to confirm them.”