INBOXPSAUG08

Sunday 31 August - Latest Programme News: Stuart J Pykett - the latest from Irlam FC (North West Counties League Division 1) v Nelson played yesterday now added to the Programme Additions page for 2008-2009.

Sunday 31 August - Latest Images: WebEd - ground, action and matchday photos from games attended over the last week and includes: Northfield Town (Midland Combination Football League Division 1) v Archdale '73 played on 25/08/08; Letchworth Garden City Eagles (Herts Senior County League Division 1) v Bedwell Rangers on 27/08/08 and Baldock Town Letchworth (Herts Senior County League Premier Division) v Codicote played yesterday. All images added to the Last Match Album for 2008-2009.

Sunday 31 August - TT No.22: Paul Roth - it's a trip down to Dorset for Paul as he reports from the FA Cup Preliminary Round tie at Ringwood Town (Wessex League) v Marlow FC played yesterday. As always Paul's review includes some terrific ground, action and matchday images.

Sunday 31 August - LL No.7: Leon Gladwell - FA Cup action for Leon as he attends the Preliminary Round game at Chesham United (Southern League Midland Division) v Brading Town played yesterday. His excellent ground, action and matchday images are now added to the LL Index for 2008-2009.

Saturday 30 August - Miles Per Gallon No.5: Andy Gallon - the latest editorial in Andy's new web column. Player power - a sign of the times! Andy reviews events over the last week and suggests that our over-paid stars seemingly move from one club to another without much regard for loyalty...a thing of the past... a bit like the status of the Football League Cup where weakened Premiership sides now take to the field and fans stay at home...not to be missed!

Saturday 30 August - TT No.21: Bob Davies - it's Herts Senior County League midweek action for Bob as he reports from the Division 1 match at Letchworth Garden City Eagles (v Bedwell Rangers) played at the Pixmore playing fields on Wednesday 27/08/08. Plenty of travellers and goals at this one!! Again Stephen Gray provides the ground, action and matchday images.

Friday 29 August - LL Nos. 5 and 6: Leon Gladwell - this week a midweek business trip takes Leon up to Edinburgh. Our super snapper attends the games at Cowdenbeath (Scottish Football League Division 3) v Dundee United and Heart of Midlothian (Scottish Premier League) v Airdrie (both in the Scottish League Cup Round 2) played on Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27/08/08 respectively. Photos added to Leon's Lens page for 2008-2009.

Friday 29 August - European Football Weekends Weblog: Danny Last - writes: 'I write a European Football Weekends blog. I think the readers of my site will be interested in yours and vice versa'. WebEd - Travellers can find more details and information by logging on to: www.europeanfootballweekends.blogspot.com

Friday 29 August - Programme Reviews: Bob Davies - check out the latest cover pix and stats from the following clubs - Colney Heath (Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division) v Holmer Green on 12/08/08; London Colney (Spartan South Midlands League Division 1) v Colney Heath (Herts Charity Shield) on 05/08/2008; Long Melford (Eastern Counties League Division 1) v Boston Town (FA Cup EP Rd) on 16/08/2008; Wodson Park (Spartan South Midlands League Division 2) v Totternhoe on 20/08/2008 and Saffron Walden Town (Eastern Counties League Division 1)v Debenham LC on 23/08/2008. All added to the PR page for PS/August 2008.

Friday 29 August - Liverpool Football Club Latest Ground News: Andy Gallon - writes: 'An update on Liverpool's proposed new stadium at Stanley Park. The Reds have delayed "in the short term" construction of the venue adjacent to the present Anfield site. The global credit crunch, which has affected the ability of the club's American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett to raise funds, has been blamed for the latest hitch to hit the £400m project. Liverpool say they will use the time to "revisit the plans" with a view to increasing the all-seater stadium's capacity to 73,000.'

Thursday 28 August - LL Nos. 3 and 4: Leon Gladwell. Part 2 from Leon's opening games of the new season with visits to Kentish Town (South Midlands League Premier Division) v Wellingborough Town in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round on 17/08/08 and Stewarts & Lloyds (United Counties League Premier Division) v St. Neots Town on 23/08/08 also added to Leon's Lens page for 2008-2009.

Thursday 28 August - Latest Images: Stephen Gray - check out the latest ground, action and matchday photos from Stephen's visit to Letchworth Garden City Eagles (Herts County Senior League Division 1) v Bedwell Rangers played on Wednesday 27/08/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Thursday 28 August - TT No.20: Bob Davies - FGIF reporter Bob attends the South Midlands League Premier Division match at Hertford Town (v Langford). Stephen Gray provides the ground, action and matchday images.

Wednesday 27 August - TT No.18: Andy Gallon - thankfully Andy manages to beat the traffic jams to get to the Manchester League match at Stockport Georgians (v Prestwich Heys) played last night. Read his report here...match photos now uploaded on the excellent Heys website [more].

Wednesday 27 August - LL Nos. 1 and 2: Leon Gladwell. He's back! FGIF super snapper Leon sends us photos from his opening games of the new season with visits to Herne Bay (Kent Senior League) v Sporting Bengal United played on 09/08/08 and Kingsbury London Tigers (South Midlands League Premier Division) v Eton Manor in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round on 17/08/08 added to the new-look Leon's Lens page for 2008-2009. Recent matches attended at Kentish Town (South Midlands League Premier Division) and S&L Corby (United Counties League Premier Division) to follow...

Wednesday 27 August - Programme Review: David Smith - the latest from Sleaford Town (United Counties League Premier Division) v Ely City in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round played on 16/08/08. Now added to the PR PS/August page.

Wednesday 27 August - Programme Reviews: WebEd - the latest from Biggleswade Town (South Midlands League Premier Division) v Aylesbury Vale played on 23/08/08 and Mill End Sports (Herts County Senior League Premier Div) v Knebworth on 16/08/08. Now added to the PR PS/August page.

Tuesday 26 August - TT No.17: Andy Gallon - Just In...Bank Holiday action from the Midland Alliance as Andy reports from the game between Market Drayton Town and Tipton Town played yesterday.

Tuesday 26 August - Latest Programme News: Bob Davies - Colney Heath v Holmer Green on 12/08/08 and Biggleswade Town v Hertford Town on 13/08/08 (both Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division); London Colney (Spartan South Midlands League Division 1) v Colney Heath (Herts Charity Shield) on 05/08/2008; Wodson Park (Spartan South Midlands League Division 2) v Totternhoe on 20/08/2008; Chesham (Southern League Division 1 Midlands) v Arlesey Town on 19/08/2008; Long Melford (Eastern Counties League Division 1) v Boston Town (FA Cup EP Rd) on 16/08/2008 and Saffron Walden Town (Eastern Counties League Division 1)v Debenham LC on 23/08/2008.

Tuesday 26 August - Latest Programme News: Rod Grubb - our Midlands based programme supremo sends us the latest news from Bolehall Swifts and Nuneaton Griff (both Midland Combination League Premier Division) v Nuneaton Griff played on 19/08/08 and Oldbury Athletic played on 23/08/08 respectively.

Tuesday 26 August - TT No.16: Paul Roth - Bank Holiday Monday Wessex League action for Paul as he travels to Hampshire for the Division 1 match at Fleet Spurs (v AFC Aldermaston). Two e's in this one! Paul's report contains some superb ground, action and matchday images.

Tuesday 26 August - Latest Images: Andy Gallon - check out the latest ground, action and matchday photos from Andy's visit to Market Drayton (Midland Football Alliance) v Tipton Town played on Bank Holiday Monday 25/08/08 (courtesy of Tipton Town FC website at http://photos-by-tipton.fotopic.net/c1568176.html).

Tuesday 26 August - Latest Images: WebEd - ground, action and matchday images from Biggleswade Town (Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division) v Aylesbury Vale played on Saturday 23/08/08 now added to the Last Match Album for 2008-2009. R No.3 to follow shortly...

Tuesday 26 August - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - super snapper Gary sends us the very first images from the new East Midlands Counties League with a visit to Ellistown (v Borrowash Victoria) played on Saturday 23/08/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Sunday 24 August - TT No.15: Bob Davies - ace FGIF reporter Bob travels to Essex for the Eastern Counties League Division 1 match between Saffron Walden Town v Debenham Leisure Centre played yesterday.

Sunday 24 August - Programme Reviews: Jim Moore - the latest from Rossington Main (Northern Counties East League Division 1) v Leeds Carnegie played yesterday now added to the PR PS/August page.

Sunday 24 August - Latest Images: Stephen Gray - ground, action and matchday images now added to TT No.15 - Saffron Walden Town v Debenham Leisure Centre, Eastern Counties East League Division 1 played yesterday, sent in by FGIF reporter Bob Davies.

Sunday 24 August - TT No.14: Paul Roth - check out Paul's terrific world record breaking report from his visit to Oldland Abbotonians Football Club (Western League Division 1) v Gillingham Town played yesterday! As always Paul's report contains some superb ground, action and matchday images.

Sunday 24 August - Miles Per Gallon No.4: Andy Gallon - the latest editorial in Andy's new web column. Andy reflects on some of his early season visits to those clubs who have recently moved up the pyramid. He also looks at some interesting initiatives which leagues and clubs have employed to attract more fans through their doors... Not to be missed...

Sunday 24 August - Latest Programme News: Keith Aslan - Bletchley Town (South Midlands Div 2) v Padbury on Wednesday 13/08/08; Godolphin Atlantic (South West Peninsula Div 1 West) v Plymstock on Saturday 16/08/08; Bucks S.U. South Midlands Div 2) v Pitstone & Ivinghoe South Midlands on Tuesday 19/08/08; Mill End Sports (Herts County Prem Div) v Met. Police Bushey on Wednesday 20/08/08; Harpenden Rovers (Herts County Div 1) v Sarratt on Thursday 21/08/08 and Park View (Middlesex County Premier) on Saturday 23/08/08.

Sunday 24 August - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by FGIF's top photographer Gary from his visit to Pickering Town (Northern Counties East League Premier Division) v Liversedge in the FAC EP Round played on Sunday 17/08/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Friday 22 August - TT No.13: Bob Davies - the latest report from Bob's visit to watch Hitchin Town Arena FC (Herts Senior County League Division 1) v Letchworth Garden City Eagles played on 18/08/08.

Friday 22 August - Latest Images: Stephen Gray - ground, action and matchday images now added to TT No.9 -Long Melford v Boston Town, FACEP Rd played on 16/08/08, sent in by FGIF reporter Bob Davies.

Thursday 21 August - TT No.12: Andy Gallon - chief FGIF reporter Andy travels up to the picturesque North Yorkshire Moors for the Wearside League match at Kirkbymoorside (v Teeside Athletic) played on 20/08/08.

Thursday 21 August - Latest Images: Mike Latham - this week's ground, action and matchday images from Poulton Town (West Lancs League) v Blackpool Wren Rovers and Middlewich (Cheshire League) v Barnton played on 19 & 20/08/08 respectively. Photos now added to the MFP Album for (07-08 and) 2008-2009. More of Mike's images to follow in the next few days...

Thursday 21 August - TT No.11: Bob Davies - FGIF reporter Bob travels to Ware for the South Midlands League Division 2 match at Wodson Park (v Totternhoe) played on 20/08/08.

Thursday 21 August - Programme Reviews: Jim Moore - the latest from Rotherham United (Coca-Cola Football League Division 2) v Lincoln City played on 09/08/08 and Annan Athletic (Scottish Football League Division 3) v East Stirlingshire on 16/08/08 now added to the PR PS/August page.

Wednesday 20 August - Programme News: Rod Grubb - Southam United (MFC Premier) v Nuneaton Griff played on 09/08/08 and Rocester (Midland Football Alliance) v Nuneaton Griff in the FA Cup EP Round on 16/08/08.

Wednesday 20 August - Programme News: Graeme Askham - the latest news from Barlestone St.Giles (Leicestershire Senior League Div. 1) v Earl Shilton Albion played on Saturday 16 August 2008.

Wednesday 20 August - The Road From Wembley: Jon Stoneman - writes: 'Many of you may know that I edit a website called Groundblogger. All of last season I was working on another project following the FA Cup from the EPR to its conclusion. The result of all this is a book and a new website'. For more details about this log on to the following link: http://www.roadfromwembley.com/ (WebEd - please note that Jon's site should not to be confused with the Andy Ollerenshaw blog from last season which has a similar title The Road to Wembley).

Wednesday 20 August - TT No.10: Andy Gallon - chief FGIF correspondent Andy travels to Chesterfield for the Unibond League League Division 1 South match at Glapwell (v Stamford). Read his report here...

Tuesday 19 August - Latest Images: Mike Latham - whilst taking time out from his busy cricket admin duties Mike sends us some more excellent ground, action and matchday images taken at the start of the new season. The matches featured include Maghull (West Cheshire League) v Prescot Cables in a P-S F played on 07/08/08; Annan Athletic (Scottish Football League Division 3) v Stenhousemuir on 13/08/08; Freckleton v Poulton (West Lancs League) on 12/08/08 and Malpas v Whitchurch Alport (Cheshire League) on 13/08/08. All photos now added to the MFP Album for (07-08 and) 2008-2009. More of Mike's images to follow in the next few days...

Tuesday 19 August - Middlesex County League News: Tony Incenzo - The Middlesex League are organising a series of Saturday morning matches throughout the season in order to attract the groundhoppers. This follows on from the success of an early kick-off at Marsh Rangers in 2007/8 which drew a crowd of more than 200. The first morning match this year will be Hayes United versus Marsh Rangers on Saturday, September 27 at 11am. The venue is Rosedale College, Wood End Green Road, Hayes. Admission is free and match programmes will be available at £2. To register your interest in attending this match and to let the club know how many programmes to produce, please email Hayes United secretary Javan Ashong at jkwame86@hotmail.com

Tuesday 19 August - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by FGIF photographer Gary from his visit to Farsley Celtic (Conference North) v Hinckley United played on 16/08/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Tuesday 19 August - Latest Images: Nick Willis - more excellent ground images captured by FGIF photographer Nick from his visit to Eagle Sports (Cheshire Football League Division 2) v Daten played on 12/08/08 and Broseley Juniors (Shropshire County League Premier Division) v Dawley Bank played on 13/08/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Tuesday 19 August - Latest Images: Peter Collins - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by FGIF photographer Peter from his visit to Ashford Town (Kent) (Ryman Football League Division 1 South) v Walton Casuals played on 16/08/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Monday 18 August - Miles Per Gallon No.3: Andy Gallon - the third editorial in Andy's new web column. Andy appreciates that keeping your house in order can be a problem. Here he takes a closer look at those league clubs who have recently been clobbered by off the field failings and considers the thorny issue of ground grading which affects all clubs in the football pyramid. Not to be missed...

Monday 18 August - This Week's Bedfordshire mid-week fixtures: Brian Buck - Monday August 18th, Sandy Albion v Shortstown kick off 7.00pm; Tuesday August 19th, Meltis Albion v Great Barford kick off 6.30pm and Valerio v Oakley Sports kick off 7.30pm; Wednesday August 20th, Sandy Albion v Stotfold Reserves kick off 6.30pm and Blunham v Blunham Reserves kick off 6.30pm (note ALL friendly games).

Monday 18 August - TT No.9: Bob Davies - Our Herts based reporter takes in an FA Cup Extra Preliminary round tie between Long Melford (Eastern Counties League Division 1) and Boston Town played at Stoneylands Stadium on 16/08/08.

Monday 18 August - TT No.8: Paul Roth - respected FGIF reporter and super snapper Paul is back on the road again! He opens his new season with a visit to Bolehall Swifts (Midland Combination Premier Division) for the FA Cup Extra Preliminary round tie against Studley played on 16/08/08. As always Paul's report contains some terrific ground, action and matchday images!

Monday 18 August - Baldock Town FC: Brian Buck - writes: 'If it concerns you then you might like to know that according to the Baldock Town website they are now known as Baldock Town Letchworth!

Monday 18 August - Leigh Genesis Football Club: Andy Gallon - writes: 'UniBond League Premier Division club Leigh Genesis will not be able to move into their new 10,000-capacity stadium at Leigh Sports Village until November. The worn state of the Hilton Park pitch they share with Leigh Centurions RLFC means the first two home games of the season have been switched to Victory Park, Chorley. Genesis, formerly Leigh RMI, hope to return to Hilton Park until the new stadium, where 'fitting out' will take place in September, is ready. But they fear problems with the pitch - and a threat of vandalism once the rugby league season is over - could prevent that. For a view of the new stadium, use the following link:

Sunday 17 August - R No.2 and Images: WebEd - report and images from Mill End Sports (Herts Senior County League Premier Division) v Knebworth played on 16/08/08 now added to the new Ramblings Stats 2008-2009 page.

Thursday 14 August - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by top FGIF photographer Gary from his visit to local club Friar Lane & Epworth (Midland Football Alliance) v Biddulph Victoria played on 09/08/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Thursday 14 August - Pie and Mushy Peas Weblog Update: Simple Pieman - The latest matchday reports and photos from Hadleigh United Football Club (Eastern Counties League Division 1) v Halstead Town played on 12/08/08. To read a matchday report and view images click on the following P&MP weblog link at: http://pieandmushypeas.blogspot.com/2008/08/hadleigh-united-fc.html

Thursday 14 August - Fixture Info - Bovingdon v North Mymms (HSCL1) on 17/08: Brian Buck - Neil Bradley Secretary, Bovingdon Football Club writes: 'As far as we are aware, this match is not taking place. We think it's an error by the HCL on their website - we don't play on Sundays, no officials or kick-off time have been allocated. Also, I did hear unofficially that North Mymms have folded'.

Thursday 14 August - Fixture & Programme News: Richard Smith - writes: 'Saturday 23rd August is our first game of the new season in the Vandanel Kent County League Premier Division. We (Rusthall FC) entertain Cray Valley at our Jockey Farm ground. Admission is £2 and a programme will be available. For more details go to www.rusthallfc.co.uk'

Wednesday 13 August - Programme Reviews: David Smith - the latest from Lowestoft Town and Ely City (both Eastern Counties League Premier Division) v Ely City and Kings Lynn Reserves played on 09 and 12/09/08 respectively added to the PR page for August.

Wednesday 13 August - TT No.7: Andy Gallon - Andy travels to Brighouse Town FC to watch the club's first ever home game in the Northern Counties East League Division 1 (v Yorkshire Amateur). Read his latest report on the PS/August TT Index for 2008-2009.

Wednesday 13 August - R No.1: WebEd - report and images from St. Neots Town (United Counties League Premier Division) v Newport Pagnell Town played on 09/08/08 now added to the new Ramblings Stats 2008-2009 page.

Monday 11 August - Fixture Information: Brian Buck - writes: 'Ickwell & Old Warden To Defend JP Trophy against Blunham. Holders Ickwell & Old Warden will defend their Jesse Piggott Memorial Trophy next Saturday August 16th when they face Blunham at Sandy FC Bedford Road Recreation Ground Kick Off 4.15pm after both clubs eased their way passed their Semi-Final ties yesterday,Ickwell & Old Warden with a first half penalty from Andrew Vallom plus second half goals from Steve Hinton and Zak Rowe running out 3-0 winners over host club Sandy whilst Blunham needed to twice come from behind to beat Dunton 4-2'.

Monday 11 August - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by our top photographer Gary from his visit to AS Cannes (Championnat National) v Libourne played on 01/08/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Monday 11 August - Pie and Mushy Peas Weblog Update: Simple Pieman - More from St. Neots Town Football Club (United Counties League Premier Division) v Newport Pagnell Town played on 09/08/08. To read a matchday report and view images click on the following P&MP weblog link: http://pieandmushypeas.blogspot.com/2008/08/st-neots-town-fc.html

Sunday 10 August - Ramblings No.1 Images: WebEd - ground, action and matchday photos from the new Rowley Park home of St. Neots Town (United Counties League Premier Division) v Newport Pagnell Town played on 09/08/08 added to the Last Match Album for 2008-2009. What a terrific ground!

Sunday 10 August - Latest Images: Nick Willis - our intrepid snapper takes in the matches at Bolton County (West Lancashire League Division 2) v Breightmet United in a Goldline Trophy match on 06/08/08 and at Wisbech Town (Eastern Counties League Premier Division) v Tiptree United on 09/08/08. All images added to the new user upload album for PS/August.

Sunday 10 August - Miles Per Gallon Comment No.2: Andy Gallon - The second editorial in Andy's exciting new web column! From past experience he suggests that lessons can be learned from missed ground 'hoppertunities...examines why modern stadia are not always popular with grounds enthusiasts and hopes that foul and abusive language will not leave a nasty taste in his mouth this season...not to be missed!

Sunday 10 August - Latest Programme News: Keith Aslan - programme details from Biggleswade Town (South Midlands League Premier Division); Percy Main (Northern Alliance League) and Colchester United (Coca-Cola Football League Division 1) all for Pre-Season Friendly matches and Wells City (Western League Division 1). Information added to the Programme additions page for 200-2009.

Sunday 10 August - TT No.6: Andy Gallon - our 'hopping ambassador travels to the Don Valley Athletics Stadium in Sheffield for the opening Coca-Cola League Division 2 fixture between Rotherham United and Lincoln City. Was it really an historic day for the club? Find out more in Andy's report...

Thursday 7 August - Wickhambrook Football Club: WebEd - an article printed in today's copy of the Newmarket Journal states...'Kershaw League club Wickhambrook FC has folded after the management team was unable to put together a side for the forthcoming season. A combination of injuries, players moving away and retirements had left the club's already small squad decimated. Manager James Jolland, a former Newmarket Town and Haverhill Rovers player, said that a lack of commitment from players during pre-season and the decision of others to play at a lower level had left only six 'quality' players. The club had tried everything to keep it going, approaching numerous players over the last few weeks but with limited success, said Jolland. Discussions had been held to bring the reserve team up to the necessary level but a gulf in standard, age and lack of enthusiasm from players forced the rejection of this idea, he added. 'Last season was a real struggle. We had some bad injuries to influential players who were the heartbeat of the side. Without any local lads coming through, we relied on players from outside the village and the identity of the club, which our success was built on, was lost,' said Jolland. Wickhambrook had enjoyed considerable success over the past 15 years winning numerous titles and cups in the Halstead & District Leagues before four successive promotions through the Cambridgeshire Leagues to take the club into senior football'.

Thursday 7 August - Everton Football Club: Andy Gallon - writes: 'Here is Everton's response, taken from an official club statement, to news the Government has 'called in' their planned 50,000-seat stadium in Kirkby. It will mean a public inquiry into the £400m joint proposal with retail giant Tesco - and, inevitably, push up the cost of the scheme. The Toffees said: "We are disappointed by the decision. Having spent more than two years working diligently on a project which would not only provide Everton FC with a new home but also regenerate Kirkby, we had hoped to avoid a Government call-in. Indeed, it was only in June that Knowsley Borough Council's planning committee voted by a majority of 20 to one to grant planning permission. We shall now engage in detailed discussions with our development partners, KBC and Tesco., to assess what options are open to us. It is important to stress that this decision does not spell the end of the Destination Kirkby project - but it will, self-evidently, precipitate a period of reflection, assessment and re-evaluation."

Thursday 7 August - Pie and Mushy Peas Weblog Update: Simple Pieman - Just In! Find out the latest from RBC Roosendaaal (Eerste Divisie) v AZ Alkmaar in a P-S Friendly. To read a matchday report and view images click on the following weblog link: http://pieandmushypeas.blogspot.com/2008/08/rbs-roosendaal-fc.html

Thursday 7 August - St.Mirren Football Club: James Watson - writes: 'Readers may be interested in a gallery of photographs on the official St Mirren website updating progress on the Buddies' new ground, which is scheduled to open at the end of January next year'. http://www.saintmirren.premiumtv.co.uk/page/Gallery/0,,10295~1358254~1~3507,00.html

Sunday 3 August - TT No.5: Andy Gallon - it's a 520 mile round-trip for Andy as he attends the opening Scottish League Division 2 game at the newly refurbished Hampden Park between Queen's Park and Stranraer.

Sunday 3 August - Latest Images: Nick Willis - FGIF snapper and respected hopper Nick travels to Scotland for the opening Scottish Football Division 1 game at Queen of the South (v Airdrie United). Now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Sunday 3 August - Miles Per Gallon Comment No.1: Andy Gallon - It's here! The first editorial in a brand new web column! In part 1 Andy looks forward to the coming season and highlights some of the clubs, leagues and competitions that will shape 2008-2009...not to be missed!!

Friday 1 August - Ashington Football Club Latest Ground News: James Watson - writes: 'Northern League club Ashington's new ground will not stage its first game until September at the earliest. The 1,500-capacity Woodhorn Lane stadium's pitch is not sufficiently grassed and the Colliers have abandoned plans to open the venue with the FA Cup tie against Thackley on August 16. Croft Park, Blyth, will now stage the game in the extra preliminary qualifying round'.

Friday 1 August - Harpenden Town FC fixture information: David Graham - writes: 'Due to the delay in the completion of pitch work at the Club, Town will be playing Hoddesdon Town in Saturday's 2nd August Hertfordshire Charity Shield fixture at Breachwood Green Recreation Ground, Breachwood Green Nr Hitchin SG4'.

Friday 1 August - Chesterfield Football Club Ground News: Andy Gallon - writes: 'Here's an update, taken from a club press release, on Chesterfield's bid to relocate from Saltergate:

Chesterfield's new home at Whittington Moor has come a giant step nearer after Chesterfield Borough Council issued formal planning consent for the development. Permission was granted officially after the Government decided it did not need to 'call in' the planning application for consideration. Hazel Blears, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, felt the proposals, also to include a superstore and a hotel, were in line with national and regional policy. Spireites chairman Barrie Hubbard said: "This is a major step forward for Chesterfield Football Club and its supporters as it means that after all these years the plans for a new stadium are on the verge of being realised. It is an exciting moment because it will also kick-start a major regeneration that should change the landscape of the town of Chesterfield for ever."

Andy adds: 'Work on the 10,500-seat venue is scheduled to start early next year'.

Wednesday 30 July - COMING SOON - NEW FGIF WEB PAGE: Andy Gallon - respected journalist, chief FGIF correspondent and much-travelled hopper, Andy pens his own web column... Miles Per Gallon will be updated regularly with the very latest news, views and topical comment from the world of grass roots football and beyond... in PART 1 Andy looks forward to the new season and highlights some of the clubs, leagues and competitions that will shape 2008-2009. Essential reading for all travellers. Don't miss it!

Wednesday 30 July - Latest Images: Nick Willis - FGIF photographer and hopping supremo Nick sends us some superb images following his recent trip to Sweden and covers matches at Djurgarden v Helsingborgs and Gefle IF v IFK Gothenburg (both Swedish Allsvenskan); Sollentuna United v Soderhamns (Swedish Division 2 Norra Svealand) and Valbo FF v Rengsjo KK (Swedish Division 3 Sodra Norrland) all added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Wednesday 30 July - England Under 17 Fixtures (1): Brian Buck - England head for East Anglia! For details about forthcoming fixtures including dates, venues and admission prices click on the following link: www.footballgroundsinfocus.com/EngU17BB89.htm

Wednesday 30 July - England Under 17 Fixtures (2): Brian Buck - Travellers may be interested to note that Non-England U17 games include - 27th August - Israel v Portugal, 7pm @ Cambridge City; 29th August - Italy v Portugal @ Northampton Town (KO ?) and 31st August - Israel v Portugal, 12pm @ Cambridge City.

Tuesday 29 July - Didcot Festival Cup 2008: Brian Buck - The Didcot Festival Cup 2008 draw has been made. The competition starts on Tuesday 5th August 2008. Full details of the matches involving the four groups of teams can be found on the following link:- http://www.nbfl.co.uk/dfc2008.html#KO%20rounds

Monday 28 July - Latest Images: Peter Collins - superb ground, action and matchday images captured by FGIF photographer Peter from his visit to Northallerton Town FC (Northern League) v Thornaby in a P-S Friendly played on 23/07/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Monday 28 July - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by our top photographer Gary from his visit to Rothley Imperial FC (Leicestershire Senior League) v Quorn in a P-S Friendly played on 26/07/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Wednesday 23 July - UCL Fixtures 2008-2009: Brian Buck - Planning to watch some UCL games this season? View all the UCL fixtures up to the 31st December 2008 by clicking on the following link: www.footballgroundsinfocus.com/UCL Fixtures89[1].htm

Monday 21 July - Latest Programme News: Keith Aslan - our programme supremo sends us the latest Pre-Season Friendly news from: Parson Drove (Peterborough & District League Premier Division); Stone Dominoes (North West Counties League Division 2) and Hemsworth Miners Welfare (Northern Counties East League Div 1).

Monday 21 July - Welsh/Hellenic Hop 2008: Chris Berezai - Information re the forthcoming Hop now on site. For more details including a match itinerary and schedule; booking form; travel arrangements; accomodation; cost etc click on the following link: www.footballgroundsinfocus.com/WHHop08.htm

Monday 21 July - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by our top photographer Gary from his visit to Tamworth FC (Conference North) v FC Halifax Town in a P-S Friendly played on 19/07/08. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Saturday 19 July - TT Nos.3 and 4: Neil Fissler - on tour with the Lions! Neil takes in two games as he travels to Ireland for the P-S/M-S Friendlies at Shelbourne and Bray Wanderers (both Eircom League) v Millwall played on 14 and 16/07/08 respectively.

Friday 18 July - Wellington Amateurs v AFC Telford United (PS-F): Andy Gallon - a first for FGIF!! Following Andy's visit to School Grove on Tuesday evening for this exciting PS-Friendly (see TT No.2), travellers can now watch the best bits (including some some cracking goals) on a match highlights video by clicking on the following link: http://www.wellingtonamateurs.co.uk/html/videos.html

Friday 18 July - Biggleswade Town FC Ground News: Brian Buck - writes: 'acccording to the Biggleswade Chronicle today the first match at Biggleswade Town's new ground will take place next Tuesday when Hitchin Town are the visitors, followed by the visit of Histon on the following night. The latter game is a rearranged dated following the postponement last week. If you are planning to attend either of these matches then I strongly advise you to check out the games beforehand just in case......'

Thursday 17 July - Terry Willson Memorial Trophy 2008-2009: Brian Buck - details of this year's competition are as follows:

Wednesday 16 July - Programme Review: Barry Love - the latest souvenir issue from St. Neots Town (United Counties League Premier Division) for the new ground opener v Kettering Town (P-S F) now added to the PR page for PS/August 2008.

Wednesday 16 July - TT No.2: Andy Gallon - Ace FGIF reporter Andy takes in his first game of the new season with a visit to Wellington Amateurs (West Midlands League Premier Division) v AFC Telford in a P-S Friendly. It's a great game with plenty of goals and a record crowd.

Wednesday 16 July - Central Midlands League News: Rob Hornby - Constitution of Leagues for 2008-09:

Buckingham Insurance Supreme Division - Blidworth Miners Welfare; Calverton Miners Welfare; Clipstone Welfare; Forest Town; Harrowby United; Harworth Colliery Institute; Hatfield Main; Kimberley Town; Kinsley Boys

Nettleham; Newark Town; Ollerton Town; Pinxton F C; Radcliffe Olympic; Rolls Royce Leisure; Southwell City

Manor Pharmacy Premier Division - Bentley Colliery; Bolsover Town; Bulwell Town; Church Warsop; Hutton Cranswick United; Kirkby Town; Kiveton Park; Louth Town; Newark Flowserve; Parkhouse F C; Parramore Sports Phoenix Sports and Social; Thoresby Colliery Welfare; Thorne Colliery; Welbeck Welfare and Westella and Willerby.

New clubs for 2008-09 are shown in bold. Also, Mablethorpe Athletic FC who had been accepted to join the league have since resigned.

Wednesday 16 July - Groundhopping Informer Magazine: Chris Berezai - writes: 'This is just an advance notice to confirm that the international hoppers’ "bible" Groundhopping Informer will be published again this year in early October with a UK price of £17, and to advise of a new way of ordering the book for UK customers.

In recent years orders from the UK have been individual and fragmented, with the added complications of sending or transferring money to Germany. I have now agreed in consultation with one of the authors, Oliver Leisner, to assemble a bulk order. He will then send the books to me and I will arrange onward distribution by UK post. A similar system was in operation a few years ago but ran into several problems, including late orders, so I will have to insist on a strict deadline for all orders to be with me by September 20th.

Full details will be posted in due course but at this stage it would be helpful in assessing the numbers involved if those interested could send an E mail to dave.woodings@btinternet.com

For those not previously aware of Groundhopping Informer this is an excellent German publication which lists clubs, grounds and capacities and contact numbers for all the major leagues in Europe and many more world wide. Coverage of the main countries in Europe goes down to at least Level 3 (Germany Level 6 and England Level 8) and there are very useful country maps showing the locations of clubs. Those of us who travel abroad a lot find it an invaluable reference work.

If you would like to view last year’s edition, which ran to 344 pages, I hope to be on the Welsh Hop and will gladly let you peruse it. "

Monday 14 July - Fixture Information: Brian Buck - the Pre-Season Friendly game at Biggleswade Town (v Histon) scheduled for this week is now OFF as the new ground is not ready. According to officials there have been problems with the water supply.

Sunday 13 July - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by top FGIF photographer Gary from his visit to Croydon Athletic (Isthmian League) v AFC Wimbledon in a P-S Friendly yesterday. All photos now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.

Saturday 12 July - St. Helens Town FC: Andy Gallon - reports: Here's some news which will affect North West Counties League First Division club St Helens Town, who share the historic Knowsley Road ground with landlords St Helens RLFC:-

"Developers Langtree, retailer Tesco and housebuilder Taylor Wimpey have been given the go-ahead by planners to build a £25m stadium holding 18,000, along with a Tesco Extra store, on the derelict 46-acre site of the former United Glass factory in St Helens. The Government Office for the North West decided not to send the scheme to a public inquiry. Work on the stadium should start by the middle of next year and it is scheduled to be completed in February 2011. Knowsley Road has been home to the rugby league club for 116 years - and to the football club since 2000, when they left Hoghton Road. The old ground will be demolished and become what Taylor Wimpey describe as a high quality residential area."

Friday 11 July - Belgian Football Grounds A Pictorial Documentation: Jurgen Vantomme - travellers may be interested to know that a terrific new website featuring images of Belgian football grounds can be found at the following web address: http://www.groundhopping.be/ Jurgen writes: 'Small and mediocre clubs, faded glories, football fields in the countryside, dilapidated stadiums. In Belgium, every small town has its own club, every city several competing clubs. Here you can discover their ‘stomping grounds’. From Ostend to Eupen, from Berchem Sport to Tilleur Luik. Only clubs from division 3 and lower are portrayed, mostly for a Belgian magazine named SportVoetbalmagazine.

Tuesday 8 July - FGIF Site Administration Note: WebEd - with the new season only a few weeks away, necessary alterations have been made to the site for 2008-2009. If some of the links are missing or don't work please let me know straight away so that I can update them. Cheers. Martin.

Tuesday 8 July - TT No.1: Paddy Lillistone - our Suffolk based hopper sends us the first TT report of the new season with a visit to the King George V PF for the PSF between Whitton United (Eastern Counties League Premier Division) and Chelmsford City.

Tuesday 8 July - Programme Review: Richard Panter - the latest from Rhyl FC (Welsh Premier League) v Bohemians in the Intertoto Cup 2nd leg on 28/06/08 added to the new Programme Review page for Pre-Season/August 2008.

(1) from Stephen Halliday (Scotsman.com) - The deep disappointment felt by the four clubs unsuccessful in their attempts to join the Scottish Football League (yesterday) was tempered by fresh hope and encouragement that they will soon be able to follow Annan Athletic into the senior set-up by way of a pyramid system. Gordon Smith, the chief executive of the Scottish Football Association, is currently leading a working party looking for a way to open up what has generally been a closed shop unless vacancies are created by either league reconstruction or the demise of a member club, as in the latest case with Gretna. Although Smith was not involved in the SFL election at Hampden, he reacted quickly to its outcome and urged Cove Rangers, Spartans, Edinburgh City and Preston Athletic to press ahead with plans for a step-up from the East of Scotland and Highland Leagues. "Congratulations to Annan," said Smith, "but to the other four clubs I would say they should continue the work they are doing and, sometime in the future, there might be a system in place that allows them to gain entry into the SFL."

Alan McRae, the honorary president of Cove Rangers, had to swallow the bitter pill of seeing his club miss out on SFL status for a third time. Fourth in 2000 and third in 2002, they were runners-up to Annan. As SFA vice-president, McRae is certain to lend his support to moves towards the introduction of a pyramid. "It's sad that, once again, this has come on the back of a club dropping out," said McRae. "Let's hope that, in the near future, the structure might be changed a wee bit and there will be an opening for ambitious and successful clubs to move forward. There are no sour grapes from us. It's been a good contest and has probably been well won by Annan. We have so much to look forward to in relation to getting our new stadium up and running."

Spartans, regarded by many as the favourites at the start of the election process last month, finished third in the vote but chairman Craig Graham believes the chance to progress through a revamped league structure is becoming a more likely prospect. "Scotland is the only country in western Europe whose football doesn't have a pyramid system and we will be lobbying for that now," said Graham. "No junior club applied for this vacancy, which probably makes it easier for the pyramid to be based on the East of Scotland League and Highland League."
Graham admitted that Spartans faced difficulty in persuading the incumbent SFL clubs of the financial soundness of their bid, while the concerns over the readiness of their new Ainslie Park stadium also worked against them.
"We gave it our absolute best shot and at the end of the day came up short," he said. "We still have a lot to look forward to with our new stadium opening in the autumn, which was always going to happen with or without SFL football. We had a challenge explaining to people what our charitable structure was, although the interesting thing is that a number of clubs have the same charitable structure. The fact that our ground won't be finished until 13 September also counted against us in the scoring system that (SFL chief executive] David Longmuir and his colleagues put together. Were the chairmen taking a decision for next season, or one for three to five seasons down the line? Our stadium would have been finished at the end of July if the weather hadn't been so dreadful from January to March which cost us a six-week delay."

With just one vote apiece, it was a painful day for both Edinburgh City and Preston Athletic but both clubs tried to shrug aside their dismay and set their sights on being ready to take advantage of any changes to the league structure. "We hope there will be future opportunities," said Edinburgh City chairman Andy McDonald. "We know we have a strong club and we will be back the next time. It's all part of our development. I've no idea when the next opportunity will come, but we want to win the East of Scotland League next season then come knocking on the door asking for a pyramid system. There is a working group looking at that and we obviously believe it makes sense. The only chance we have at the moment is if another club goes under and that's not great for football. We congratulate Annan. They have been great for the East of Scotland League and I'm sure they will be great for the Scottish Football League."

Andrew Waddell, secretary of Preston Athletic, said: "Having gone through the process we've picked up a lot of experience and support. It means East Lothian Council have woken up to the prospect that it is possible to have a team. I'm quietly confident there will be a pyramid system sooner rather than later and what we've got to do is build a team that's strong enough to get there on merit. It's better than waiting on dead men's shoes." Published 04/07/08.

(2) from The Edinburgh Evening News - Spartans chief executive Craig Graham insisted (today) that his club has still got plenty to look forward to – despite missing out on a place in the Scottish Football League. But he admitted that the Edinburgh outfit may have been victims of their own success after they, along with fellow Lothians sides Edinburgh City and Preston Athletic, lost out to Annan Athletic in their bid to replace Gretna in the SFL. Spartans had been one of the favourites to make the step up to the Third Division after successful Scottish Cup runs in recent seasons and a mountain of backing and publicity, however, they dropped out of the race after the second round after amassing just six votes. With a minimum of 15 votes required for the successful club, the vote had to be taken three times before Annan were declared the winners.

In the final round, they received 17 votes with Cove Rangers their nearest challengers with 12 votes. While Graham was quick to congratulate the successful Borders outfit, Graham believes there are many positives on the horizon for Spartans. He said: “Annan is a great club with some great people in it, but obviously we are disappointed because we felt that we put a lot of hard work in to our application and to the club in general. As far as the club goes, we have got a fantastic amount still to look forward to. Our Academy opens in mid-September or maybe even earlier. The Academy is about the community, it’s about the businesses and the students who will use it, as well as the players and the schoolkids. Obviously yesterday’s decision was a blow for us, but we know that there are a lot of positives to have come out of this for us as well. With a bit of luck we may even be playing against some of these SFL clubs in the not-too-distant future again in the Scottish Cup and that will maybe give us a little bit of extra motivation into the bargain. And Graham added: One of the main parts of our presentation was the fact that there is currently no SFL club in the Edinburgh area and Edinburgh is a massive market. Trying to get into the minds of the 29 representatives at the meeting though, is very, very difficult. We were at a slight disadvantage because our ground isn’t quite ready and I think that we maybe upset a few of them because our presentation was quite trendy, visionary and modern and I know that didn’t go down too well with some of them".

Chesterfield FC is a step closer to getting a new stadium after plans for a 10,500 seater stadium in the Whittington Moor area of the town were unanimously approved by Chesterfield Borough Council’s planning committee, subject to certain conditions concerning some traffic and site issues. The regeneration of the disused brownfield site also includes relocation of an expanded Tesco superstore and other business mixed development. Although it’s another major step forward, the planning process is set to rumble on for some months yet with the Secretary of State having to decide if there are any grounds to call in the development plans for a public enquiry. After further enabling work to put in road access and principle infrastructure it is expected that, subject to all planning issues being resolved, construction would begin early 2009 with both the Tesco store and the football stadium proceeding at the same time.

Chesterfield chairman Barrie Hubbard said: “We all feel elated that at last we are getting somewhere and congratulate the development team in putting together such a comprehensive regeneration plan.” In a joint statement David Ward, Planning Director at Wilson Bowden Developments said: “Wilson Bowden Developments, together with our development partners; Chesterfield Football Club and Tesco are delighted that the application for the redevelopment of the former Demaglass site has been approved by the planning committee. The proposals represent a significant opportunity for Chesterfield, not least to see the much needed regeneration of this disused site with the creation of a new stadium for Chesterfield FC and new expanded Tesco store. We look forward to continued progress with this development with the construction programme commencing early 2009 following the last enabling works.”

Tuesday 8 July - Latest Images: Gary Spooner - more excellent ground, action and matchday images captured by Gary from recent visits to Rhyl (Welsh Premier League) v Bohemians in the Intertoto Cup on 28/06/08 and Sligo Rovers (Eircom Premier League) v UCD on 21/06/08 now added to the NEW User Album for Pre-Season/August 2008.