National League North club lose manager

FC Halifax Town have appointed Buxton boss John McGrath as their new manager after the 44-year-old guided the Bucks to back-to-back National League North play-off campaigns.

McGrath leaves Silverlands after two successful seasons in charge, having helped establish Buxton as a competitive National League North side while overseeing the club’s transition to full-time football.

The former Republic of Ireland under-21 international steered Buxton to seventh place in his first season, before improving to fifth last term as the Derbyshire side reached the play-off semi-finals. Along the way, the Bucks also enjoyed an impressive FA Cup run to the second round.

Buxton chairman David Hopkins admitted the club were disappointed to lose McGrath and assistant Pablo Mills, but said the move was recognition of the work they had done.

“As First Team Manager, John has represented this football club with tremendous professionalism and integrity,” Hopkins said.

McGrath said leaving Buxton had been a difficult decision after two memorable years at the club.

“It has been a privilege to manage this football club and work with such a fantastic group of players, staff, volunteers and supporters,” he said.

“This was not an easy decision, but I feel the time is right to take on a new challenge.”

He also thanked the club’s supporters, adding: “To the Railway End — thank you for making my two years at the club as enjoyable as they were.”

McGrath now steps up to the National League with Halifax, who finished 11th last season after missing out on the play-offs by four points. He replaces Adam Lakeland, who left to take over from Jim Bentley at National League North newcomers Morecambe.

Before moving into management with Mickleover, he enjoyed a lengthy playing career which included promotions with Doncaster Rovers, Weymouth and Burton Albion, while also making almost 200 Football League appearances.

Halifax said McGrath brings “a wealth of experience” from both the EFL and non-league game as they look to push back towards the National League play-off places next season.

Buxton have confirmed an announcement on their next manager will be made “as soon as possible”.

News round up

Paul Caddis

Radcliffe have added full-back Ben Collins from Southport on a one-year deal with an option. The 22-year-old joins after an impressive National League North campaign with the Sandgrounders, where he helped secure a 14th-place finish and featured in both league wins over Radcliffe last season.

Collins, who came through Salford City’s academy and had loan spells at Clitheroe, 1874 Northwich and Flint Town United, also made EFL Trophy appearances for the Ammies. He said joining Radcliffe was a “no brainer”, adding that last season’s experience has prepared him for another step in Step 2 football.

King’s Lynn Town boss Paul Caddis has issued a rallying call to supporters as preparations continue for the new season, stressing honesty, hard work and unity at the club. Caddis, who was sacked by Hereford in February before joining the Norfolk side, said the initial aim on arrival was to “keep the club in the division”, a goal he described as a difficult but successful collective effort. He added the focus is now on “a fresh chapter” built around long-term progress.

He highlighted recruitment as his responsibility, insisting every signing must represent the badge “in the right way” and contribute to a side supporters can connect with. Caddis also invited fans to a forum on June 12, calling communication and togetherness “vital” as the Linnets look to build momentum on and off the pitch.

Merthyr Town's Player of the Year Jaimie Cogman has agreed a new deal with the club. The Australian-born keeper joined the Martyrs in September 2021 following his release from Cardiff City. 

Spennymoor Town goalkeeper Brad James has signed a new contract to remain at The Brewery Field for the 2026/27 season after helping Moors finish 10th in National League North last term.

The former Middlesbrough stopper has made more than 100 appearances since arriving in February 2024 and won the Supporters’ Club Player of the Year award last season.

New boss Tommy Miller called him “one of the best goalkeepers in the division”, while James said he believes Moors are “good enough to make the play-offs”.

Radcliffe have secured a club-record commercial agreement after extending Neuven Procurement’s stadium naming rights partnership until the end of the 2028/29 season.

Neuven, a multi-award-winning workforce management and temporary staffing firm, will continue its backing of the National League North club for a further three years.

Chairman Billy Quarmby said the deal provides “real stability and momentum” and is a “powerful endorsement” of the club’s direction on and off the pitch.

Latest player to sign on

Teenage goalkeeper, Ollie Lewis is the latest player to commit to Hereford for the forthcoming season.

The 19-year-old is Theo Richardson's understudy.

Hereford manager Aaron Downes told the club's website: "It's great to have Ollie with us again for next season.

"He showed tremendous commitment in coming up and down the country and supporting Theo. He’s improved in training since I’ve been at the club and I feel there’s plenty more to come from him. We’re really happy to have him here.”

News round up

Alex Fletcher donning the captain's armband as AFC Telford United drew 1-1 with Hereford at Edgar Street last season

AFC Telford United have confirmed captain Alex Fletcher will remain at the club for 2026/27. The 29-year-old midfielder is the first player to commit to a new deal as Kevin Wilkin builds on a promising season back at step two.

Fletcher led the Bucks for much of the 2025/26 campaign, helping secure a top-half National League North finish alongside FA Cup and FA Trophy runs. His leadership, consistency and key goals made him a central figure, with the club calling him a “bedrock” of the side.

Radcliffe have made their first summer signing with the addition of striker Max McCarthy from Congleton Town on a one-year deal with an option. The 23-year-old arrives after a prolific spell in the NPL West, scoring 52 goals in 84 appearances for his hometown club since rejoining in 2023/24.

McCarthy, who has also played for Stoke City, FC United of Manchester and Stafford Rangers, steps up to National League North looking to make his mark. He said the move was a “no brainer” after speaking with manager Bernard Morley, calling the chance to test himself in step two a “big challenge”.

The Boost the Budget campaign at Darlington has made a strong early start, raising £70,000 in just 16 days from more than 250 pledges. The initiative, which helps fund the club’s playing budget, has already reached almost 40 per cent of its £180,000 target.

Supporters have once again responded in impressive numbers to the fan-owned club’s annual appeal, which has previously raised over £1.1m in total across nine years.

Macclesfield have continued their summer recruitment by signing AFC Fylde full-back Lincoln McFayden following the Coasters’ National League North title-winning campaign. The 24-year-old joins former Fylde team-mate George Wilson at the Leasing.com Stadium as the side continue building for another promotion push.

McFayden came through the academies at Preston North End and Swansea City, making his senior debut for the Swans in the Carabao Cup against Reading. He made 24 appearances and scored four goals for Fylde last season, including featuring in their 5-1 win over Macclesfield in December.

Cox Looking Forward To Playing For Hereford

Striker Cawley Cox who joined Hereford from Merthyr earlier today has commented on his move.

'Thank you for the warm welcome, I can’t wait to get going and playing for this great club. 

Looking forward to stepping out at Edgar Street for the first time as a Hereford player.

Nothing but good things to say about everyone involved at Merthyr Town.

Thank ou to all of the players and management staff who I have learnt so much from, everyone behind the scenes at the club and to all of the fans who have been behind me and my teammates since day one.'

 

Meanwhile Cox has been interviewed by Gregg Davies.

 

https://herefordfc.co.uk/2026/05/interview-cawley-cox-on-becoming-a-bull/ 

Defender signs for new club after Edgar Street release

Keenan Quansah, centre, with Kyle Howkins and Aaron Skinner

Former Hereford defender Keenan Quansah has signed for National League South side Slough Town ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 28-year-old centre-back was released by the Bulls this summer after making 39 appearances in all competitions during his only campaign at Edgar Street, including 30 starts.

Quansah became a regular figure in Hereford’s back line under both Paul Caddis and Aaron Downes, scoring once.

Slough said that while at Hereford, Quansah "continued to demonstrate the reliability and consistency that has made him a highly respected defender in non-league football.

Slough, who finished 16th in National League South last term, described Quansah as a player with a “wealth of experience” at step two following spells with Hereford and Southport.

Before joining the Bulls, Quansah spent three seasons with Southport and won the club’s Staff & Football Committee Player of the Season award for 2023/24.

Standing at 6ft 3in, Quansah is comfortable playing across the back line and brings a commanding physical presence and athleticism.

He began his career in the academy at Accrington Stanley before featuring for clubs including Warrington, Hyde United, Widnes, Glossop North End and Stalybridge Celtic.

A strong 2021/22 season with Stalybridge earned him a move to Southport before his switch to Hereford last summer.

Quansah is also the brother of England international Jarell Quansah, who now plays for Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.

Everything groundsman Ben Bowen has said about mammoth Edgar Street pitch overhaul

The Edgar Street pitch after the mammoth overhaul

Major pitch works at Edgar Street have taken a big step forward, with the new drainage system now completed and attention switching to rebuilding the playing surface.

The project follows a season of disruption caused by waterlogging issues, which led to postponements and the relocation of three home games to Worcestershire.

The overhaul at Edgar Street Stadium is a full reset of the pitch structure, with earlier problems in the old drainage system uncovered during the works, including blocked and collapsed pipes that had contributed to the winter issues.

With drainage work complete, the old surface has been stripped and a new base laid. Seeding and fertilising have also been completed and the pitch returned to groundsman Ben Bowen.

Bowen, uncle of West Ham's Jarrod Bowen who is part-funding the work, has been sharing daily updates.

Here they are in full:

Day 1

The start of it all(finally)

Sprinklers all dug out/posts down/nets away

Day 2

Abit of sprinkler repairs (niggly things what has broke over last couple of weeks)

Materials arriving

Day 3

Not a huge amount going on today

Bits and bobs all tied up now

More sand coming in

Machinery being delivered

Day 4

We have action (geeeeeet up like)

1st lot of trenches going in

Laser levels done

Pipes arrived

All sand arrived

All stone arrived

👊👊👊👊👊

Day 5

Not been there today

By the looks pipes going down

5m centres are in

Day 6

Jon Morgan(kmm hire)Usk is our contractor doing the work at Hereford FC

Main carrier pipe is in

Trenches going in for new drainage

Pipe and stone going in

Full steam ahead

On target

👊👊👊👊👊👊👊👊

Day 7

More drainage going in

Half pitch done now

Had a chat with Jon earlier he says it’s all going well

Full steam ahead

Day 8

Not been there today been bizzy with some seeding pitches

By the looks on the camera drainage is nearly finished (I think,wouldn’t have a chuffin clue)anyway Jon is cracking on with it

👊👊👊👊👊

Day 9

Been to see Jon today nearly finished with drainage

All pipes in and connected

All stone in

Just started topping drain lines up with root zone (sand and part soil mix)shouldn’t be far off done tomorrow night with new drainage system

👊👊👊👊

Day 10

Not been there today so not much to report on it,

What Jon was saying yesterday he wanted drainage done today ready for stripping pitch off Monday

Will have a gander down there tomorrow

Day 11/12

Forgot to put something up last night

Anyway

Drainage all finished(interesting what they found with the old drainage)no wonder we had major problems

So today they started stripping off the pitch

2 passes taken off about 30mm(ish)depth

Couple more days should be all done

Then the headache will start🤯🤯🤯

Day 13

pitch all stripped off

Powerharrow top surface

Verti drained

Started top dressing

A fair shift from Jon and geth

End of the tunnel is in sight

Day 14

Last of the sand went on

They have prepared seed bed ready for seeding and ferting tomorrow

This time tomorrow should be all done

Now that is a monster of a shift from Jon and geth fair play to them

Day 15

There we have it by tonight pitch will be complete

Levelled off

Seeded and fertilised

What a hell of a shift Jon and geth has done wow!!

Sprinklers getting changed over weekend(by me)

Couple of sprinklers and electrics being sorted next week(don’t worry they still all work just up grading)Matthew Gwynne (cmagri)

Final update

Well there she is our old girl is back in my hands

This has been a major major job on our pitch

New drainage installed

Complete revovations(don’t think it’s ever had this much done on it)

I feel de stressed now

Big thanks too Jon and geth from kkk hire you boys have put some sort of hours/ graft into this and made it right for us 👊👊👊👊

Anyway that will do from me with the pitch updates for a while

See ya all at the back post soon

😍JB20😍

One That Got Away From Under Our Noses

A look back to two articles posted on BN, the first in November 2025 which suggested Hereford should have looked at Cawley Cox sooner.

The second posted last month asked how Hereford had not noticed someone scoring freely just 400 yards away from Edgar Street. 

One that got away?- November 6th 2005

Many supporters have questioned Hereford manager Paul Caddis' recruitment this season, believing that the players he has brought in have not improved the team. 

Sammy Robinson, Yusifu Ceesay, Tate Campbell and Jaiden White - all key players during the 2024/25 campaign - departed in the summer.

Chris Wreh was brought in, with Caddis saying the striker "would bring strength and further experience to our group".

However, within a month, the 29-year-old - along with fellow new signing Kai Williams - was shipped out. In September, Montel Gibson returned to the club on loan from Matlock. 

But he too only lasted a month, with his contract at Matlock terminated. 

Therefore, for the majority of the season, Hereford's main strikers have been Remaye Campbell and Andy Williams, although Callum McFarlane has recently joined on loan from Solihull. Williams is the Bulls' joint top scorer with four goals, although two of them were against Alfreton. Campbell meanwhile has three, with two being against Buxton.

Omari Sterling-James has chipped in with four, but three were in last Saturday's mad game against Curzon Ashton. 

In National League North, Hereford have scored 18 goals in 15 games, making them the joint sixth least prolific team. On Tuesday night, the Bulls dominated the first half against Oxford City but were unable to take their chances. They subsequently went down to 10 men shortly before the break and ended up losing 3-0. 

In comparison, Merthyr - who won the Southern Premier South - have scored 30 goals, with the Welsh outfit sitting in sixth place. 

Granted, half of the goals have been bagged by Ricardo Rees, with four of them coming in Tuesday night's 4-2 win at Telford.

One player who has bagged four goals this season though is Cawley Cox, the former Hereford Pegasus and Westfields marksman. 

The 21-year-old joined Merthyr in January after previously being on trial at the Pennydarren Park outfit. 

His signing was on the back of him scoring 19 goals in 24 goals for Westfields, which followed a similar purple patch at Pegasus. 

Last Saturday, Cox scored for Merthyr in a 3-1 win over Darlington, while he also bagged a hat-trick in the FA Cup in September. 

Therefore, could Hereford have had a look at him? Of course, when he went on trial at Merthyr, they were a Southern League club, but with no academy in place, would it have been worth a punt, even to bring Cox into some training sessions?

Hereford fans love nothing more than seeing a local lad playing for the club. So is Cox possibly one that got away? 

And just last month, on April 5th, Cox was mentioned in the BN preview of the game against Merthyr.

'Striker Cawley Cox joined the Martyrs from Westfields, having also played for Pegasus, suggesting that Hereford FC missed a good ‘un from right under their noses. That move came in January 2025. In December 2024 Hereford had scored three goals in five games. They weren’t exactly in a position to ignore a player scoring freely 400m away from Edgar Street, but for whatever reason he didn’t end up being a Caddis signing. Perhaps that wouldn’t have been the case if the manager was more closely aligned geographically with the county and its footballing scene.     

Cox has scored 11 this season, and got his side’s goal in their draw with Oxford on Good Friday.'

Joining Hereford Is A Big Feeling For Me Said Cox

Cawley Cox, who has signed a two year old with Hereford FC, has said that joining the biggest club in the county is 'a big feeling for me'.

Cox has been with Merthyr since January 2025 since moving from Westfields. 

"Being local and signing for a club that I’ve been in and around for so long is a big feeling for me,” he said.

“For anyone that plays locally, it’s a big thing to come and play for Hereford – it’s the biggest club in the county. 

"It’s huge for me and for Pegasus and Westfields as well. It shows the progression that’s possible from those clubs."

Manager Aaron Downes played down the fact that Cox was local.

"I’ve not signed him because he’s local. I’ve signed him because he’s a good football player. 

"As soon as I spoke with Cawley, you could see his excitement in wanting to join. 

"He’s a player that I feel is going to play a big part in our success next season." 

Quotes from: https://herefordfc.co.uk/2026/05/signing-bulls-complete-signing-of-striker-cox/ 

Cox joins Bulls

Hereford have signed 22 year old striker Cawley Cox from Merthyr. He has signed a two year deal.

The striker is well known locally due his goalscoring exploits for Westfields and Pegasus.

'Merthyr Town Football Club can confirm that Cawley Cox will be departing Penydarren Park. 

 

'Cawley made a total of 61 appearance for the Martyrs, scoring 20 goals.' 

 

It's believed that Cox had been offered a new deal by Merthyr but he turned it down. 

 

Cox joined Merthyr in January 2025 from Westfields. 

  

Ex-Bull watch

Jason Cowley

Former Hereford striker Jason Cowley has said the past season at Halesowen Town has "done a lot for me" after he dropped down to step three after leaving Edgar Street. He said football has his "happy place" after being awarded players', manager's, chairman’s and supporters' player of the season, after he finished the season with 37 goals and 14 assists in 48 appearances.

Under manager Russ Penn, formerly of Kidderminster Harriers, Cowley has signed a deal until the summer of 2028.

Former Hereford defender Keiran Thomas has extended his stay at Gloucester City. The right-back joined Weston-Super-Mare in 2020 after leaving Edgar Street, making 155 appearances over five years.

James Waite, who was with Hereford during the 2018/19 season on loan from Cardiff City, has also re-signed for the Tigers.

Jacob Jagger Cane, who made 20 appearances for Hereford during the curtailed 2019-20 season and had a spell on loan at Weston-Super-Mare, has agreed a new deal with Weston. The midfielder, who had a good relationship with Jason Pope having both come through the ranks at Exeter City, has spent the majority of his senior career with the club.

Meanwhile, Weston have said they are in talks with Pope to extend his stay.

Omari Sterling-James has agreed terms to extend his stay at promoted Hednesford Town. The lively winger, an important part of Hereford's side in 2025, joined the step three outfit after leaving Edgar Street.

He credited the club being local as one of the reasons behind the move, while director of football Andrew Reed said the winger "wanted to get out of Hereford". Sterling-James, whose previous clubs include Cheltenham Town, Kidderminster Harriers and Ebbsfleet United, made 22 appearances for Hereford last season and scored five goals.

Lyle Taylor, who made eight appearances for Hereford United on loan from AFC Bournemouth in 2012, is staying with National League South Chelmsford City after the clib triggered a clause in his contract.

Now 36, the former Sheffield United, Charlton Athletic and Nottingham Forest striker scored 28 goals during the 2025/26 campaign, as well as picking up the Goal of the Season and Supporters’ Player of the Season awards.

Ben Bowen's latest pitch overhaul update as significant milestone hit

Work being carried out on the pitch. Picture: Ben Bowen

The major summer renovation of the Edgar Street pitch has reached another significant milestone, with the new surface now seeded and fertilised following weeks of drainage and reconstruction work.

Groundsman Ben Bowen confirmed the latest stage of the project had been completed after an intensive fortnight of work carried out by contractors KMM Hire.

The overhaul comes after a difficult season for the playing surface at Edgar Street Stadium, which suffered repeated waterlogging issues during the winter and led to postponements as well as three home fixtures being moved to Worcestershire.

Earlier this week, Hereford's general manager Jamie Griffiths told BBC Hereford and Worcester that the old drainage system had contained several serious underlying issues, including blocked and collapsed drains and pipework installed at incorrect levels.

Bowen also hinted at the scale of the problems uncovered beneath the surface, saying it was “interesting what they found with the old drainage” and adding: “No wonder we had major problems.”

Following the completion of the drainage installation, attention turned to rebuilding the pitch itself over the past week.

The existing surface was fully stripped off before work including power harrowing, verti-draining and top dressing was carried out. Large quantities of sand were then added before the seed bed was prepared for seeding and fertilising.

Bowen repeatedly praised contractors Jon Morgan and Geth from KMM Hire for what he described as “a monster of a shift” and “some sort of hours/graft” during the project.

By day 15, Bowen confirmed the pitch had been levelled, seeded and fertilised, with sprinkler upgrades still due to continue over the coming days.

Reflecting on the completion of the main works, Bowen described the overhaul as a “major major job” and admitted: “I feel de stressed now.”

He also told supporters "our old girl is back in my hands” as responsibility for the pitch returned to the club following the completion of the contractor phase.

The next stage of the process will now focus on growing in the new surface ahead of pre-season, with the club hopeful the upgraded drainage system will help avoid the problems that disrupted large parts of the previous campaign.

Southend Lift FA Trophy

Southend have lifted the FA Trophy.

The final against Wealdstone was played at Wembley this afternoon.

The tie went to penalties after the sides were 0-0 after ninety minutes, but Southend were better at converting penalties and won 4-2.

In the FA Vase final AFC Stoneham defeated Cockfosters 4-2 on penalties having been 0-0 after ninety minutes.  

National League North club 'saved' after troubled stadium saga

Hereford fans at Scarborough in January 2024

Scarborough Athletic chairman Trevor Bull says the Seadogs have “achieved our primary aim of saving our club” as preparations continue for a long-awaited return home next season.

The Seadogs spent the entire 2025/26 campaign away from Scarborough Sports Village after issues with the 3G pitch forced the ground to close for competitive fixtures. Scarborough played home games at Bridlington Town while North Yorkshire Council began a major programme of remedial works.

In an update to supporters, Bull confirmed the club expects the pitch replacement project to be completed in time for the start of next season.

“We are in regular contact with North Yorkshire Council and are pleased to report that the pitch replacement project is on schedule to ensure completion prior to next season,” he said.

Bull also revealed the fan-owned club will finish the financial year with money still in the bank after what he described as an “extremely challenging but ultimately successful season”.

“At the end of this month our current financial year will come to an end with a small amount of money in the bank which means we will have achieved our primary aim of saving our club and can now start to prepare for our return to Scarborough next season,” he added.

Scarborough are planning to begin pre-season away from home while final work is completed at the stadium, though the club hopes to stage home friendlies later in the summer to celebrate their return.

Supporters will also be asked to help prepare the ground once access is granted, with Bull admitting there is “quite a bit to do” after the stadium stood largely unused for more than a year.

The club will soon begin selling season tickets, with a three-month payment plan available, while the “No Battle No Victory” fundraising initiative will remain open to help support the club’s return and future competitiveness.

Bull confirmed manager Jonathan Greening is already working on his squad for next season, while several summer events are planned, including home and away kit launches and a cricket match against Scarborough Cricket Club.

“We are coming home with an exciting year ahead with much to look forward to,” Bull said.

Another friendly announced

Hereford will travel to Bromsgrove Sporting on Saturday, August 1.

It will be the Bulls' final friendly before they start their National League North campaign.

Friendlies

July 11: Hereford Pegasus (a)

July 17: Bishops Cleeve (a)

July 21: TBC (h)

July 25: Solihull (h)

July 28: TBC (h)

August 1: Bromsgrove (a)

News Round Up

Adam Livingstone

Former Hereford defender Adam Livingstone is looking for a new club having been released by Dumbarton.

Leicester City's Jordan James, son of former Hereford defender Tony James, said he is "extremely honoured to have ended the season as Men’s Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year".

Kidderminster Harriers chairman Richard Lane says the club had “no control” over Adam Murray’s departure after Barrow AFC triggered a release clause in the manager’s contract, as reported by BBC Sport.

Murray has joined the recently relegated Bluebirds on a two-year deal just days after leading Harriers back to the National League. Lane described Murray as a “wanted man” and admitted the exit was disappointing, but said Harriers are already receiving strong interest as they search for a replacement.

As for potentially losing players to Barrow, Lane said Murray had "guaranteed" him he would not try to sign anyone.

Marine winger Fin Sinclair-Smith has signed a new deal with the club after starring in their National League North campaign.

The former Blackpool youngster first played for Marine in 2018, scoring twice in a famous FA Cup win at Brackley Town, before returning ahead of the 2023/24 season. Sinclair-Smith said staying was a “no brainer”, while boss Bobby Grant praised the winger’s key role in the club’s recent success.

Downes And Pell Talk To Teddy Draper

 

Hereford FC manager Aaron Downes and his assistant Harry Pell have spoken to Teddy Draper for Sport and Life Cheltenham and Gloucester.

To watch the interview go to: https://sportandlife.co.uk/sport-article/former-robins-and-best-mates-having-a-time-at-hereford/

News Round Up

Former Hereford defender Ben Pollock has signed a new deal with Spennymoor.

Graham Drury who quit as Matlock manager yesterday has been linked with the vacant post at Peterborough Sports. 

Four managers have been nominated for the National North League manager for the month of April. They are Hereford's Aaron Downes, former Kidderminster manager Adam Murray, Buxton's John McGrath and Chester's Connell Rawlingson. 

 

Nominated for National North player of the month are Hereford's George Munday, Radcliffe's Rio Clegg, Chester's Tom Davies and Buxton's Johnny Johnstone. 

Martin Signs New Deal

 

Keziah Martin has agreed a new deal with Hereford FC.

Manager Aaron Downes commented:

"I’m really pleased to get Keziah back with us for next season.

"He played a pivotal role at the back end of last season, with some important goal contributions, and was a massive part in keeping us in the National League North.

"We had some very positive talks and I’m glad he’s staying. 

"He’s got great quality at the top end of the pitch and I’m really excited about working with him next season."

Martin came to Edgar Street on loan from Buxton last January.

In March he signed for Hereford for an undisclosed fee.

Martin is the fourth player in Aaron Downes's squad for the forthcoming season. He joins Theo Richardson, Lewis Hudson and Kyle Howkins.

Alfreton For Sale

Alfreton FC is up for sale.

The club was purchased by American Will Rush last May. But he has decided to sell citing lack of revenue.

One of his schemes, a world wide token idea, only raised £125K. 

Alfreton were relegated from the National North to the Northern Premier League last month. 

 

Two More Friendlies Confirmed For Hereford

Hereford FC have revealed details of two more pre-season friendlies.

They are Bishops Cleeve away on Friday July 17th at 7.45pm and Solihull Moors at Edgar Street on Saturday July 28th with a 2pm kick-off.

That makes three friendlies so far. The first away at Pegasus on July 11th. kick-off 3pm, was confirmed several days ago by Pegasus. 

Interesting Times At Matlock

Matlock Town owner David Hilton has released the following statement after the departure of manager Graham Drury.

“Firstly, I must apologise. The decision to appoint Graham was mine and mine alone.

Graham has enjoyed success in both the Southern League and the Northern Premier League, and I have long admired his ability to create togetherness and a strong bond within squads. He has consistently achieved results on modest playing budgets.

I had previously tried to bring Graham to Ilkeston and twice to Matlock without success. This time, however, he approached me. He expressed interest in joining at the time of Adam’s departure and attended the semi-final. He understood that had Ryan been successful, he would have retained the managerial position permanently. Shortly after the defeat to Bradford, Graham contacted me and we discussed plans for the season ahead.

I do not usually discuss figures publicly, but I believe full transparency is important in this instance. Last season our playing budget averaged around £12,000 per week and, at times when many players were injured, exceeded £14,000. The club’s sustainable level, based on an average crowd of 700, is approximately £5,500 per week. The shortfall was covered personally by me, not as a loan, so there was no financial risk or debt placed on the club. While we created many fond memories and recorded an excellent points total, we ultimately fell short — and nothing else matters.

This season the budget was reduced to £7,000 per week, rising closer to £9,000 with additions to the existing contracted players. The aim was to build a winning mentality by recruiting hungry, committed players who would fight for the badge every week. Our players last season gave a great deal, but we felt something was missing. I believed Graham would be the gel to bring the squad together and the right man to recruit his own players and provide the long-term consistency every club owner desires.

When Graham’s contract was signed, every detail was thoroughly discussed. He was fully aware we were planning for the East division — something the projections had always indicated. His proposed solution to the increased travelling for a proportion of fixtures was to move training to Loughborough and reduce it to once a week on a Thursday, with coach travel provided for away games. This was agreed and fully supported by the club. Graham repeatedly assured us that he had players lined up and that negotiations were progressing well. As recently as last night, he messaged me ahead of a radio interview, saying how much he was looking forward to the season.

"Earlier this week, I was informed by several players that Graham was struggling to secure commitments. Many players had been released on his instructions from last season, while others had moved to higher-level clubs. A significant number were unable to accommodate the relocation of training further south. Nevertheless, we trusted Graham and believed he would deliver.

Today’s events have come as a complete shock to myself, my staff and the board. I am extremely disappointed by how this situation has unfolded, having placed full faith in a man who had previously shown nothing but honesty and integrity.

I can confirm the club will inevitably face financial consequences as a result of decisions made since Graham signed his contract. These include the loss of valuable playing staff, the potential loss of our training facility, reduced sponsorship and season ticket income, and lost revenue from pre-season friendlies (many of which Graham had rearranged against teams further south).

I apologise again — to our supporters, my hard-working staff and volunteers, and the board of directors — all of whom deserved far better. But this is football.

Moving forward, I want to thank everyone who has supported me at the club. I understand that the move to private ownership was not welcomed by everyone, and I have made mistakes. However, I have supported the club financially as promised. We carry no debt, and while I have funded the club heavily, it owes me nothing.

On that basis, and under the current scrutiny, I am prepared to offer the club back to the supporters if there is sufficient interest. Anyone wishing to pursue this would need to come forward with a credible plan demonstrating how the club could operate sustainably with significantly lower overheads, returning day-to-day control to the fans.

If the support remains, I am still happy to continue, face the challenges head-on, and fund the club as we strive to get back to where we need to be.

Finally, while I will clearly learn from my mistakes, I want to reiterate that nothing was overlooked in our negotiations with Graham. Nothing has changed on our side — Matlock has not moved, and we remain in the division we were always projected to be in. Neither I nor the club can predict another person’s actions, especially when they are entirely unexpected.

We will now move quickly to appoint a new manager and recruit players as soon as possible."

 

Cowley Signs Two Year Deal At Halesowen

 

Former Hereford striler Jason Cowley has signed a new two year deal with Halesowen.

'The striker joined Halesowen last summer from National League side Hereford and quickly became a fan favourite at The Grove.

Cowls enjoyed an outstanding first season in royal blue, scoring 37 goals and registering 14 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions.

His season included two hat-tricks against Grimsby Borough and Barwell, with the latter seeing him score four, while his 37-goal return was the best single-season tally by a Yeltz player since Ben Haseley in 2013/14.'

Cowley commented:

"Evening yeltz fans, just want to say I’m buzzing to be staying at the club and already can’t wait to get going again and seeing you all back in the stands, I have unfinished business at the club and I know the gaffa does and the chairman also, the clubs ambitions and vision is what I want to be apart off, the club has big plans and I can’t wait to be apart of that! 

The gaffas played a big part in me staying and happy that we have got it all sorted and we can focus on the upcoming season, I believe the club is in the best hands possible with keith and believe we can do what we set out to achieve this season, hope to see as many as possible on Saturday at the awards evening all the best cowls." 

National League Clubs 2026/27

Following the release of the composition of the three National Leagues this morning, a slightly more detailed look at the clubs in each league.

The FA have announced the club allocations for the 2026/27 season for clubs across the Enterprise National League.

Barrow and Harrogate Town join the Enterprise National League line-up with title winners Worthing and AFC Fylde - with Promotion Final winners Kidderminster Harriers and Hornchurch completing the line-up. 

Relegated pair Morecambe and Brackley Town drop into the Enterprise National League North where they will be joined by Harborough Town, Hebburn Town, Hednesford Town and Spalding United who were all promoted from Step 3.

Braintree Town and Truro City are joined in the Enterprise National League South by Billericay Town, Farnham Town, Folkestone Invicta and Walton & Hersham.

All allocations are subject to appeals - the constitution will be ratified at the National League AGM on Saturday 6 June 2026.

 

Confirmation of next season's allocations

Next season's non-league allocations have been confirmed. 

There are no surprises for National League North.

Under 18's Defeated By Lye Town

Hereford Under 18's lost their league game this evening.

Hereford 1 Lye Town 2 

It was their last league fixture of the season.

They have finished 6th in the table with 28 points from 20 games. 

Lye Town finished top with 52 points from 20 games. 

National League North club go full time on gates of 700

Oxford City are going full time.

The National League North club - who had an average attendance of 707 last season - announced the news within an article stating that assistant manager Andy Ballard would be stepping down.

More here. 

Carragher joins Marine

Sky pundit Jamie Carragher has joined Marine as an advisor.

The former Liverpool defender lives close to their ground in Crosby and has watched them many times 

"Marine is a proper community football club with good people involved and a clear vision for where it wants to go," said Carragher, as reported by the club's website.

"I've enjoyed watching the progress the club has made over recent years and I'm pleased to be able to support the club in an advisory capacity going forward."

Meredith To Leave Leamington

Leamington have agreed that Hereford born Dan Meredith can leave the club. They report that 'Dan will be released from his option agreement to pursue other opportunities'.

Right back Meredith is 26. 

This from Leamington:

Following discussions between Dan Meredith and Scott Easterlow, the club can confirm it has been mutually agreed that Dan will be released from his option agreement to pursue other opportunities.

Since initially joining on loan from West Bromwich Albion at the start of 2019 before making that move permanent in the following summer, Dan has amassed 251 appearances for the club, scoring 4 goals.

Dan has played a vital part in Leamington sides over the years, often referred to as a swashbuckling right back and picked up the Directors’ and Players’ Player of the Season awards for the 2025/26 campaign.

Leamington Manager Scott Easterlow said “Dan has been a fan favourite and one of the most consistent players at the club for a long time. Whilst we are naturally sad to see him leave, he does so with everyone’s best wishes.”

 

Pegasus friendly confirmed

Hereford Pegasus have confirmed they will be playing Hereford FC in a pre-season friendly.

The match will be at Old School Lane on Saturday, July 11 and will no doubt kick off Hereford's pre-season campaign.