Volunteers bring FA Cup magic to Congleton

John Berisford putting the finishing touches to the Cleric Stadium in preparation for the opening fixture

The chairman of Congleton Town has said the club "totally relies" on its team of volunteers to keep it going.

Sixteen members of the volunteer "Wednesday Club" have been painting, cleaning and cutting the grass at Ivy Gardens ready to take on Bury FC on Saturday in the first preliminary round of the FA Cup.

Kit man Adam Gosney describes it as "the greatest competition in the world".

“It’s important to the community and the club – it brings everyone together,” said Mr Gosney, who has ambitions of facing Manchester City in a later round.

The Midland Premier League champions are hoping for more success after also winning their league cup last season.

Their success means crowds have grown significantly in recent seasons, as volunteer Amanda Wrench reflects on her 12 years as a fan.

"I've seen it grow. At one time there was maybe 150 people here and now we're getting maybe 1,000 through the gate - it's such a lovely feeling."

Mrs Wrench said the club are "helping build Congleton. It's all small town but we’re helping build that family feel."

Marlene Proudman is another member of the Bears’ Wednesday Club and dedicates her time purely for the love of the side.

"We've got a smashing lot of boys. They're all friendly and they get on so well together. It's a family club.”

Down the A534, fellow non-league side Hanley Town FC will also begin their FA Cup journey at home.

Chairman Ron McIlreavy agreed with Mr Porter and said his club's 'army of volunteers' are "the lifeblood of non-league football".

"Without those volunteers, football clubs at our level, they just don't exist. It's that simple," he added.