THERE will certainly be plenty of excitement for Magpie fans in the new season as things get together on and off the field.

Manager Mark Molyneaux's senior squad pulled off a 2-1 win over First Division Ashton United at Hurst Cross on Saturday following a 3-1 defeat at Fleetwood on Thursday.

Stuart Tulloch scored both goals at Ashton - making it a special family celebration as his father Dave, the Magpies' Academy manager, continues to bring in players who may one day make the big time via Victory Park.

Every star footballer starts somewhere - and with Chorley competing at UniBond and Lancashire League at senior level and the new Academy side in the North West under-18 set-up the future is looking extremely bright.

In addition, the Junior Magpies and the regular soccer schools will hopefully encourage local youngsters who want to play for their town club.

Off the field, there is the increasing involvement with the business world and with the local community - all of which will be considerably enhanced if, as expected, the Magpies continue their climb back up the non-league ladder.

Molyneaux and chairman Ken Wright, make no secret of their hopes and ambitions for Chorley - a return to the Conference as soon as possible.

As former manager Ken says: "It was an exciting time when I helped the club go up into the Conference 15 years ago. We are hoping that the next stay will be more permanent."

After a trip to Woodley tomorrow (Thursday), Chorley round off their pre-season programme with a match at Droylsden on Saturday - seven days before visiting Belper on the opening day of the new season.

With a fast-track route to the expanded Conference as the incentive for the First Division champions prospects for the new season look really exciting.