For the past 7 years, Non League Day has been something that every club at our level of the football pyramid has looked forward to. Taking place on one of the first international breaks of the season, the purpose of the day is to put focus on clubs in local ares that may not normally garner the attentions of those with their eyes towards the upper echelons of the game. For the last few seasons, we have been drawn away from home on the particular weekend that the game has taken place, and have therefore been unable to fully indulge in the occasion. However, with this season’s Non League Day falling on the same date as our NWCFL fixture against Squires Gate – Saturday 7th October – we finally have an opportunity to properly take part once more.

West has many stars on the pitch that each have their own skills: the goalscoring exploits of Tom Bailey; the breathtaking shot stopping of Aaron Ashley; Nic Evangelinos’ mazy dribbles; Kev McGrath’s intelligent reading of the game; Matty Kay’s precision and passion – we could go on. These are the people that get the adoration of the crowd every week, and rightly so. For Non League Day, we have decided as a club to celebrate another important aspect of the club, and one aspect of our fanbase in particular – our canine pals. We’re doing a Non League Dog Day, and you’re all invited whether you’ve got your own pup or not.

We normally have a high dog count at West anyway, as our poster – created by the superb Liam Bane – attests. From top left clockwise, we have Jed, Henry, Rocco and Sol – but there are countless others that could’ve been including from our regulars: Jerry; Poppy; Chloe; the inimitable Maisie; again, we could go on. Brookburn Road has always been a firmly dog friendly place, and on Saturday 7th October, we plan to make it even more welcoming to our canine friends. We’re offering concessionary entry to anyone who brings their own pup down to the game, which means that both you and your dog will get in to the match for the minuscule sum of £3. To further sweeten the deal, we’ll also be handing out free treats to any and all dogs who decide to venture to the game. There will, of course, be adequate water spots for any dogs that come along, and all members of the non-playing staff will provide any stroking requested or required by our special visitors.

Supporters’ spokesman – and owner of posterboy Jed – Peter Jones said, “Every dog has its day and I’m delighted West have coincided this with the always excellent non league day. It’s another innovative way to attract crowds and also will help keep fans entertained during any lull in the play. Jed the dog will be in attendance – his favourite player is Bark Rogers”

Before Non League Day, we face AFC Darwen (Saturday 30th September) and Burscough (Tuesday 3rd September) both at home – we’d love to see you (and preferably your dog) at those fixtures, too. Come on, West!

More about West Didsbury & Chorlton

West Didsbury & Chorlton are one of Manchester’s oldest and leading non-league clubs with the vision of becoming the leading community club in the South Manchester area.

The club aims to play at the highest level sustainable possible at all level’s of the game including men’s, women’s and junior football.

The first team play in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division as well as competing nationally in the FA Cup and Vase. The Reserves compete in League One of the Cheshire Football League and the Youth Team have competed for the last three seasons in the North West Youth Alliance and FA Youth Cup.

In addition the club has 10 junior teams from under-7s soccer skills to under-16s with an inclusive-for-all belief throughout the setup.

In 2017/18 West Didsbury & Chorlton Women will take to the field for the first time competing in the North West Women’s Regional League First Division South and FA Women’s Cup.
Visit the West site here.

More about Non League Day

NLD was launched in 2010 as an event to give non-league clubs in the English National League System a chance to promote themselves during an international break when Premier League and EFL Championship clubs have the weekend off and England are not playing on the Saturday.

This year’s event also enjoys the added bonus of not coinciding with international matches for any of the home nations which frees up more clubs and fans in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales to also take part if they wish.
Visit the Non League Day site here

More about Liam Bane

My name is Liam and I am an Illustrator and Graphic Designer from Somerset, England.

I can create images and video for projects large or small from one off illustrations to full re-branding.

I have worked for football clubs such as Bristol Rovers, bands including The Ataris and Thursday and many businesses both local and national.
Visit Liam’s site here.