WITH the new season a mere six weeks away, changes are happening at Vauxhall Motors in preparation for the big kick-off.

And with the publication of the fixture list due next week, chairman Alan Bartlam is excited about his club's appearance in the all-new Nationwide Conference North.

But coinciding with what Alan describes as a 'move into the big time' comes the inevitable news familiar with football fans everywhere - an increase in admission prices.

From next month, adult ticket admission cost £8, £5 OAPs and £4 U16s.

However, Alan is keen to emphasise several fringe benefits of such an increase.

He said: 'Unfortunately, pure economics has meant we have had to increase the admission prices.

'But we are keen to look after our loyal followers and to soften the blow of the price increase.

'Therefore, there will be a greatly enhanced half-time raffle and we are going to try and produce a professionally printed programme of high quality which will still cost £1.50.

'Another bonus is that season tickets will be offered at discounted prices. The cost is £150 for adults, £95 OAPs and £75 U16s.'

According to Alan, there is great excitement at the club after last season's step up from the UniBond League.

He said: 'This is a serious step for the football club and I see it as a move into the big time.

'No disrespect to the UniBond League but the Nationwide Conference is a very professional league and it is well organised.

'These are exciting times for us. Ground improvements will have to be undertaken and we are all looking forward to the start of the season and, hopefully, an increase in crowd attendance.'

Alan added: 'We will be playing teams who are an unknown quantity to us, such as Kettering, Nuneaton, Hinckley and Moor Green.

'These are all big-supported clubs in their own area and very professional outfits. Vauxhall Motors are very much the new boys on the block.'

Vauxhall players begin pre-season tomorrow. There are no additions yet to Owen Brown's promotion-winning squad.

The Motormen have eight pre-season friendlies lined up, including home games against Tranmere Rovers and Everton. They also hope to fit in a match against a Liverpool XI Vauxhall have been presented with a crystal plate for being one of the founder members of the new Conference North league. The gift was received at a recent presentation night in Blackpool.