CLUB football returns for the 2019/20 season this weekend, in the shape of the Football League, the National League and, for a couple of our local teams, the Western League.

Wellington AFC and Bishops Lydeard AFC remain in the Premier Division and First Division, respectively, after steering clear of relegation danger last time out.

It could be another tough campaign for Wellington, who finished 16th (fifth from bottom) in the Premier standings last term, as manager Clive Jones admits ahead of his fifth campaign in charge.

"We may make a slow start, but we'll do our best," he said.

"We have good youngsters here but they can't all play at the same time.

"There's a lot of money in the Western League now, and we can't compete with that."

The Tangerines have played four pre-season matches, culminating in a 1-1 draw at Exwick Villa (Joe Wylie scoring) and 2-2 at Chard Town (Joe Wilkinson and Lewis Pockock with the goals).

Wilkinson – who scored for fun for Staplegrove last season – agreed terms this week, as have Carl Jones and Ian Bellinger, the latter re-signing from Bridgwater Town.

Boss Jones added: "I'm grateful to Bridgwater for waiving the approach period, so [Bellinger] can play in our first game.

"Carl Jones gives us the power and strength that we need up front.

"Now I've got to find two experienced defenders, to help the young players."

Wellington are without a match on Saturday, instead kicking off their campaign away to newly promoted Keynsham Town on Tuesday (ko 7.45pm).

As for First Division side Bishops Lydeard, they get going with a trip to Hengrove Athletic, who were relegated from the Premier Division last season (ko 3pm).

Lydeard posted a mid-table finish (12th place) in 2018/19, and will look to progress under manager Brett Andrews having only joined the league in 2016.

The Bishops played their final pre-season match on Tuesday, at Cullompton Rangers (losing 3-0), having also faced Exmouth Town and Middlezoy Rovers as preparation.