Express & Star

New clubs wanted for Beacon League

The Beacon League is on the lookout for new clubs to join ahead of its 40th anniversary.

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At the league's end-of-season awards, chairman Brian Lester heaped praise on the achievements of its member clubs.

It came as the campaign has just finished, while he also cast an eye on the future. Plans are already in place to form a veterans section for over-35s.

Lester said: "We have already had three firm applications. We just need another three teams. It's a great opportunity for those in that age group to pass on their skills to others."

The past season saw 17 teams compete across two divisions, with the league keen to add more teams as it prepares to celebrate four decades of Sunday football.

Lester said: "If we can attract new teams into the league they'll find a friendly and helpful approach from the league.

"Every side that joins will be given every support to flourish and I think that's quite important."

The awards ceremony also gave members the chance to reflect on a season in which Beacon teams have excelled both on the domestic front and in outside cup competitions.

First Division Pensnett Panthers and Premier Division Dynamo Dudley reached their respective Sunday Amateur Cup and Vase county finals, with success going to the former.

The duo also won their league championships, while Dynamo completed a superb treble, winning the NDT (Midlands) Premier Cup for a third consecutive year and lifting the Lester Charity Cup.

Springvale Steelers Academy were the other major league winners, defeating Pensnett Panthers in a thrilling Falcon Insurance Beacon final and also finishing runners-up in the First Division.

Members from each of the winning teams were present to collect awards, while Bradmore Social's Lee Brookes was named secretary of the year.

A cheque for £210 was presented to Compton Hospice fundraiser Simon Cater from league treasurer Roger Brindley. Newcomers New Park Village scooped the fair play award.

Lester said: "I think we've had a very successful season, particularly in the two outside cups that are run by Birmingham County FA.

"Pensnett's victory in the county final was a tremendous achievement for the league, while Dynamo Dudley also represented the league with pride and no less little impressive football.

"It's been a very good season in terms of what we've done on the pitch, and one of the more pleasing aspects for me was when I've been round the grounds and watched matches.

"It's been a partnership very much between ourselves (the committee) and the club's and particularly the new clubs, who have told us how much they've enjoyed the season with us.

"Hopefully, they will be looking to continue with us."

New teams wishing to apply for the 2016-17 season or the veterans section should call league development officer Dave Clinton on 07964 730 275.

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