Ex-England defender Michael Dawson visits Ilkley Town

The Baht’atters, of course, have switched allegiances and moved across to the NCEL Division One from NWCFL.

In preparation for the upcoming campaign, the club travelled to Marley last week to take part in the Archie Airdrie Trophy contest with Steeton, with all proceedings going to the Airedale NHSFT Oncology Unit.

The visitors claimed a 1-0 in what proved to be a very even and contested game which was settled by a moment of misfortune for the Chevvies.

In other news, Ilkley have been drawn against Penrith FC at home in the first qualifying round of the Isuzu F.A. Vase.

The fixture will take place at the MPM Stadium on August 24, and the kick-off time will be announced in due course.

Of course, like with any off-season period teams tend to be busy in the transfer market and Town are no exception.

The Baht’atters have brought in six new faces, most recently acquiring left-sided player Arlo Buller, who has really impressed throughout pre-season.

The club have also recently added Thierry Hendrickson to their ranks, a talented and versatile defender who has previously enjoyed spells at Frickley Athletic and Steeton.

Sadly, for Ilkley there have been departures too.

Nathan Hunt has exited the club making the step up to NCEL Premier Division side, Thackley.

And club favourite Matty Swift has also left the club by making the step up to the NCEL Premier Division with Campion.

Ilkley said: “We wish Matty all the best with his move and he’ll always be welcome at the MPM.”

And last weekend saw Town host their first ever family fun day where a great deal of entertainment was observed including live music, challenges, games and inflatable fun.

Ex-England defender Michael Dawson was on hand to help out with the award presentations!

Michael Dawson (right) helping out with the presentations at Ilkley Town last weekend (Image: Soul and Co)