IT’S all systems go after Bishop’s Castle have been given the go-ahead to play in the Shropshire County League this season – and the return to England is a challenge the club are relishing.
After 26 years of playing in the Montgomeryshire League, officials felt it was a time for change and leaped at the chance of switching leagues across the border.
Being based in England, Castle have been unable to progress in the Welsh pyramid system for geographical reasons despite their efforts.
So they are relishing a new era against new clubs, with their first game in division one a week tomorrow at home to Haanwood United reserves who, ironically, are managed by former Castle boss Alan Kinsey.
“We’ve had some good times in the Montgomeryshire League, we’ve got on well with most of the clubs and have made some good friends,” said manager Fred Jones.
“The league has always treated us well, but we felt the chance to join the County League was an opportunity not to miss.
“We had to take it when it was there, particularly as we have been frustrated in our attempts to progress in the Welsh league
“We heard that the County League was looking for new clubs, so we approached them and have now been confirmed as part of the league. It’s a refreshing challenge that everyone’s looking forward to.
“It will be nice going to new grounds and we’ve got some good games coming up against local sides Clee Hill, Church Stretton and Brown Clee.”
Castle are hoping to have a stronger squad at their disposal this season with centre half Sam Naden having joined from Newtown reserves, and another defender Matt Jones arriving from Newcastle.
Forward Jake Cintra has also returned to the club while another new arrival, Adam Hamer, has shown he has an eye for goal in the pre-season friendlies.