Forres and Nairn District Welfare League to return after a season away
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THE Forres and Nairn District Welfare League (FNWFA) is all set to return to action on Friday after nearly two years away.
Three local teams are involved in the 11-team division, with Forres pubs Mosset Tavern and Carisbrooke taking part, along with Kinloss Sappers.
Each team will play each other once in a 10-game season – with the league split in two by the cup, which will take place over two weeks in July.
The final match day of the season is scheduled for Friday, August 27.
Red Lion and Carlton, who were involved in the 2019 season, are not taking part this time round – though Carlton have 'merged' with Carisbrooke.
The 2020 season was a non-starter thanks to the coronavirus pandemic and a big effort has been required to get this season up and running.
The FNWFA has also been in mourning after the sad passing of vice-chairman and fixtures secretary Alan ‘Shaka’ Roddie two weeks ago.
Media secretary Gary Souter said: “The uncertainty regarding the pandemic has pushed us right to the limit in terms of scheduling a season that will deliver the excitement and memories that a coronavirus-free season would.
“Also, with our vice-president and much-loved local football legend Alan Roddie passing away, the committee has had to try its best to fill the monumental role that ‘Shaka’ played in the FNWFA.
“We hope that, as restrictions relax, we will be able to welcome crowds to the pitchside to support their local team and celebrate the memory of our dear friend ‘Shaka’.”
The first games will take place at 7.30pm on Friday. One game will be played in Forres – with Roysvale set to welcome Mosset Tavern, who are taking on league newcomers, Elgin side Caberfeidh.
Kinloss Sappers are travelling to face Elgin Albion, while Carisbrooke are at Elgin Caley.
The Vikings, from Elgin, will make their league debut at FC Elgin, while league champions Westerlea, from Nairn, will get their title defence under way with a home match against Elgin Thistle.
Luck of the draw means that Nairn United will sit the first week out.
