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Welcome back to…

• Banbury United, relegated from the National League North after three seasons following their promotion in the 2021/22 season
• Bedford Town, promoted back into our league having been relegated in 22/23
• Biggleswade Town, also returning following a prior relegation back in 21/22
• Lowestoft Town, also relegated in 21/22 and returning to Step 3 once more

Also welcome back to Hitchin Town, who were granted a reprieve from relegation following Coalville Town’s resignation.

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And a warm welcome to…

• Bishop’s Stortford, who were relegated from the National League North last season, having previously played in the Isthmian Premier at Step 3
• Harborough Town (who we beat during our fantastic FA Cup run in the 22/23), promoted from Step 4 via the play-offs
• Spalding United, promoted as league winners from Step 4 last season

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What to expect

After another massive rebuild over the summer (expecting no more than three of last season’s regulars to stay) the squad must gel quickly during pre-season. The switch to a fully morning-based training schedule (moving away from the hybrid system) has raised eyebrows as well as questions, but it’s as much a risk as it is a statement of ambition.

Talking of ambition, there has been plenty of that shown in the signings announced so far. I won’t go into them all here, but the likes of Dan Sweeney, Tyrone Barnett and Krystian Pearce have all drawn envious glances. Many are talking of a play-off spot for ‘Church this season, with some even suggesting a title challenge.

I’m trying not to get swept up in all that, but I’m cautiously optimistic. Let’s see how we look during pre-season, and then revisit.