WITTON Albion have announced a ground share for next season.

Newly-formed Runcorn Linnets FC are the new tenants at Wincham Park after the Albion board gave the go ahead on Monday.

The move was first mooted last month, and Witton chairman Mike Worthington is pleased to finally seal the deal.

He said: "There should be a Runcorn football team playing at the highest level possible.

"I hope we can give them a foundation for future success by sharing our excellent facilities."

And it's not the first time a Runcorn club have called Wincham their 'home'.

Witton helped out Runcorn FC some years ago when their Canal Street ground was out of action for repairs.

Boss Jim Vince said he was not concerned about the added pressure on the playing surface.

He said: "It worked well when Northwich Victoria played here recently, so I've got no worries on that score.

"It's a good move for the club, especially if it brings in more money."

Linnets chairman Stuart White agreed, saying it was a good deal for football in general.

"Witton and Runcorn have over the years enjoyed a friendly rivalry and both teams have been through hard times," he said.

His club were due to hear yesterday, Tuesday, whether their application to join the North West Counties Division Two had been successful.

Meanwhile Albion have lined up a pre-season programme that includes home friendlies against Premiership opposition.

Vince said: "Some of the high profile names will hopefully persuade them to come and have a look at us."

The list of friendly matches for the close season is: Knutsford (away), Thursday July 13, 7pm; Wigan Athletic (home), Thursday, July 20, 7.45pm; Northwich Victoria (away), Mid Cheshire Senior Cup Semi Final, Saturday, July 22, 3pm; Nantwich Town (away), Tuesday, July 25, 7.45pm; Barrow (home), Saturday, July 29, 3pm; Manchester City (home), Tuesday, August 1, 7.30pm; Newcastle Town (away), Saturday, August 5, 3pm; Middlewich Town (away) Tuesday, August 8, 7pm; Clitheroe (away), Saturday, August 12, 3pm.