FA Cup progress is a ‘welcome distraction’ for two Bridgford clubs now fighting for the future of their sports ground.

Two West Bridgford footballing sides will be putting worries over the future of their home ground aside next week to compete for prestigious FA Cup trophies.

West Bridgford Colts and West Bridgford FC will both feature in the latest rounds of the FA Cup and FA Youth Cup, with matches taking place next week.

West Bridgford FC will be making their debut in the First Round Qualifying of the Emirates FA Cup on Tuesday (September 22) with a home tie against Halesowen Town FC.

West Bridgford Colts will then face Boston United two days later at home in a FA Youth Cup match on Thursday, September 24.

Colts players from the U17 and U18s have been taking part in trial games over recent weeks in a hope of being one of the 18 players to make it into the side representing the club in the prestigious youth competition. Those competing for places in the FA Youth Cup side have been playing for Colts since they were seven.

Both achievements are a welcome distraction for the clubs who both face uncertainty now that Nottinghamshire County Council are proposing to use their Regatta Way Sports Ground for future development, with plans for housing and two school being mooted.

A petition was recently launched as part of a campaign against the council proposals and has attracted over 6,000 signatures and support from ex-Forest players like Stan Collymore and even Notts & England cricketer Stuart Broad.

Club Chairman Peter Stansbury said he was now hoping for a ‘good news story’ with both sides making progress in their cup competitions.

Stansbury said: “It’s been a difficult few weeks because of the uncertainty over the sports ground, so this is a welcome distraction for those involved in the clubs.

“I’d urge people to come down and support the club as we have social distancing measures in place.”

“It will also give everyone the opportunity to see the wonderful facilities we have that are now sadly under threat due to these latest proposals from Nottinghamshire County Council.”

*Article provided by David Bratton (West Bridgford Correspondent).

*Main image @wbcfc_u18 Colts players from the U17 and U18 sides looking to feature in the FA Youth Cup.