LUDLOW FC’s launch is well under way with new kits, 18 players and seven pre-season friendlies lined up ahead of a return to the West Midlands Regional League (WMRL).

Ex-Wales schoolboy international Jamie Hammonds, former AFC Ludlow captain Jack Beaumont and former Hereford youth player Jack Marston are among those to agree to sign.

Aaron Dovey is one of a handful of ex-AFC players who are part of the new venture, while Tenbury United’s Gavin Podmore has also made the switch.

All that is left is for WMRL chiefs to rubber-stamp Ludlow’s place in Division Two, which is understood to be a formality, at their AGM on June 26 following the club’s successful ground-grading inspection.

“We are one of a few teams applying to go in and we have heard from the right people that it looks good,” said Hicks. “Without taking anything for granted, we are planning for life in West Midlands Two.”

Pre-season training kicks off on Wednesday, June 14 at Ludlow Stadium with prospective new players welcome to attend.

“We have a squad of 18 lads together so far but we’re looking to recruit anyone who feels they could add something is more than welcome to come along,” he added.

“Everything is coming together nicely and clicking into place. We are just looking forward to getting started now.

“The kits are in place with some kind help from our sponsors DM Recruitment in Shrewsbury and the Charlton Arms and Church Inn pubs in Ludlow.

“The club has been accepted for a grassroots grant which helps us to get started. We will have to settle into our new surroundings but I want us to push for the top five.

“From there, I’d like to think we could push on and get out of Division Two in our second season.”

Shrewsbury-based Mercian League outfit Rock Rovers will be Ludlow’s first opponents in a friendly at the Ludlow Stadium on Wednesday, July 5.

From there, Presteigne visit on Saturday July 8 before Spar Mid-Wales League outfit Llandrindod Wells come to town on Wednesday, July 12.

Ludlow hit the road for the first time on Saturday, July 15 when they go to Gloucestershire League side Lydbrook AFC with a journey to Rhyader following on Wednesday, July 19.

Saturday, July 22 sees them travel to Knighton with a final home clash against Mercian League champions Oakengates Athletic following seven days later.

“We’d love to get some support down there from the off,” said Hicks.

“A lot of hard work and help has gone in from so many people and if we can hit the ground running, hopefully we can give everyone some enjoyment in our first season.”

Teams looking for a friendly during that final midweek or anyone seeking sponsorship details can contact Hicks on 07581 078865.