THIS season will be a special one for Latchford Albion no matter what happens on the pitch.

The club celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, with plans in place to mark the occasion throughout 2020.

On the field, the focus is on celebrating it in fitting style with promotion from Division One of the North West Men’s League.

That quest starts with a trip to Chorley Panthers on Saturday, kick off 2.30pm, and as he enters his second season at the helm, Albion head coach Martyn Ellis is feeling positive.

“I remember my first training session where 11 players attended,” he said.

“The coaching staff quickly realised we needed cohesion between all departments and quickly integrated the under 18s, and more latterly, the under 16’s into our schedules, creating a “one club” philosophy.

“By the end of the last campaign, we regularly had over 30 players training and were very unlucky to miss out on the play offs.

“This pre-season has seen this momentum carried forward.

“It has been really encouraging to see continued increased numbers – the players are really buying into what we are trying to achieve.

“We are fully aware of the challenge of this season.

“We are confident but at the same time, we know this division is a tough one.

“But if we are consistent then we will be in the mix come the business end of the season.”