This weekend marks the start of a new era for the renamed Chester & Wirral Football League (CWFL) which continues to buck the trend.

The struggles facing the grassroots game have led to a worrying demise of clubs and leagues across the UK, and although the CWFL must deal with the same issues of rising costs and dilapidated facilities, the league has grown again over this summer.

A new 10-team veterans division has been introduced to complement the existing three divisions ahead of the 2015-16 season, which kicks off on Saturday, and a representative team has been formed to compete in the FA Inter-League Cup.

The 121-year-old league, which in June was granted FA permission to change its name from the Chester & District Football League to reflect an increased presence on the Wirral, now has 49 teams.

Honorary secretary Paul Graham said: "The CWFL have dedicated a lot of time and effort this year in supporting our clubs through tough times.

"Grassroots football is going through a bad patch in the area at the moment with the demise of the Ellesmere Port Sunday League, Ellesmere Port Junior League, Wirral Sunday League and the Ormskirk League, all in a close proximity, but we are happy to report our continued growth.”

Reigning champions Lache start as favourites to retain the Premier Division title but can expect stiff competition from Birkenhead Town and promoted Deva Athletic.

Deva Athletic will be competing in the Premier Division for the first time
Deva Athletic will be competing in the Premier Division for the first time

Blacon Thistle and Woodchurch, who finished first and second in Division Two, should mount strong challenges for the Division One title with Franklyn’s and Neston Town among those hoping to be in the mix.

In Division Two, newcomers MBNA have an experienced squad and could be dark horses for the championship and Crossway will be targeting a better season having been relegated last season, while Blacon Youth, Newton Athletic and Dee Rangers should go well in the Vets Division.

Clubs will be contesting the various cup competitions too with the CWFL League Cup, Cayzer Shield and Tom Geraghty Memorial Trophy up for grabs having gone to Lache, Woodchurch and Blacon Thistle last season.