WARRINGTON Town soccer club have set up some challenging pre-season friendlies which they hope will prepare them for the demands of the North West Counties elite division.

They will first play Alsager away on July 21, kick-off 3pm. Other scheduled games, which kick-off at 7.30pm unless stated, are Buckley Town away on July 24, Heswall away on July 28, kick-off 3pm, Vauxhall away on July 30 and Bury at home on August 6.

The pre-season programme will conclude with a mouth-watering home fixture against Runcorn on August 9. The game is due to start at 7.30pm.

After gaining promotion last year, the club are determined not to lose a single member of their squad.

As well as hanging on to their current players, the club are also hoping to strengthen the team in preparation for the new season and they are due to speak to a couple of possible new recruits in the next few weeks.

Team coach Dave Hughes said: "If we can make a few additions to the squad I am sure we will make a big impression in Division One. I think we'll finish mid-table at least."

The club are also appealing for 'ball boys' to work for the club during the new season. If you are interested contact Town's secretary Barry Thorpe on 631932.