ILMINSTER Town Ladies have been promoted to the South West Women’s Premier Division, where they will face more local derbies against the likes of Bishops Lydeard, Middlezoy and Yeovil.

The decision to promote the Ladies 1st team was made at last week’s South West Women’s League AGM.

Ilminster, who finished third in the Eastern Division last season, now face less travelling in the upcoming campaign, but the increased challenge of the higher league means there is a very important pre-season ahead.

Manager Craig Stuckey said: “It’s the most important [pre-season] we’ve had, as we have to work hard to build a good squad with depth.

“It’s a team that was fairly successful last season, and we’ve added a couple of players including a goalkeeper.”

On what would constitute a successful season, Stuckey added: “We want to get in and consolidate, and not be in a situation where we’re up against it.

“I believe we’re good enough to compete at that higher level.”

Their pre-season begins tonight (6.30pm), and training continues every Monday and Wednesday from next week, from 6.30pm at the Archie Gooch Pavilion.

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Chard & Ilminster News:

TOURNAMENT DEBUT: Ilminster YFC Under-8s. Back row (left to right) - Duncan Wadsworth (assistant coach), Harry Theobald, Michal Lyszyk, Reuben Bidgood, Sam Anderson, Flynn Wadsworth, Paul Anderson (Manager); front row - Wil Vickery, Fergus Campbell-White, George Pattemore, Joseph Tutcher.

LAST Sunday (June 25) saw Ilminster YFC Under-8s enter their first football tournament, which was held at Martock.

There were two leagues of seven teams, and with Ilminster winning three games and drawing three, they went through to the semi-finals in second place, pipping Merriot Minions on goal difference. 

In the semi-final against Wells City, Ilminster drew 1-1 in an enthralling game, only to lose out on a place in the final on penalties.

Manager Paul Anderson reflected afterwards: “I’m so proud of the boys, with us not losing a game all day in normal time, and with penalties such a cruel way to lose.”